Patrick’s Sunscreen [Giveaway!]

Did you know that children and adolescents are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of UV radiation?

Excessive sun exposure in children is likely to contribute to skin cancer later in life. Did you know that one bad blistering sunburn in childhood or adolescence can actually double the chance of developing melanoma later in life? Scary.

The mechanisms are not totally clear, but some think that the skin is more susceptible to the harmful effects of UV radiation during childhood.  That’s why I am taking NO chances with my children, especially since melanoma runs in my family.

And when choosing a sunscreen for my kids (and myself), opting for one that is chemical-free is really important, which is why I am very happy to share Patrick’s Sunscreen with you.

Make sure to enter below to win your own supply of Patrick’s just in time for lazy beach days and afternoons at the pool.

Patrick’s Sunscreen was created by a So Cal dad (Patrick’s dad to be exact!) who was inspired to create a healthy product to help families protect their loved ones from the sun, but was also looking for a way he could help give back to local organizations in the community.

Their trademarked Mineral Shield formula provides chemical-free 50 SPF protection. It’s gentle, water and sweat resistant, does not sting and is not greasy.

We spent this last weekend at the pool at the Fairmont Newport Beach and it was the first time I used Patrick’s Sunscreen on my girls.  Getting sunscreen on them usually causes a big fuss, but I told them, this is NEW sunscreen, just SMELL it.  And my oldest (who hates sunscreen application) yelled, “It smells like coconut!” and happily let me apply. She also has incredibly sensitive skin and it did not bother or sting her at ALL. Victory! 

Because it is a zinc formula, you can see exactly where you have applied because it goes on with a white film, and more importantly, where you missed, so you can cover them head to toe in a coconut-y chemical-free protective shield. This makes mommy feel so good for a beach or pool day.

It is also a BROAD SPECTRUM sunscreen, meaning that it protects from both the UVA and UBA rays that can contribute to skin cancer and sun burns. Interestingly enough, this summer the FDA is making changes to how sunscreens are marketed in the US. Prior rules dealt exclusively with protection against sunburn (primarily caused by UVB rays), but did not address UVA rays, which contribute to skin cancer and early skin aging.  So, looking for a product that is labeled broad spectrum, is extremely important.

Patrick’s Sunscreen is also one of the only sunscreen companies in the US that participates in fundraising programs for schools, athletic programs and other charitable organizations, all the while promoting the importance of sun safety. If you do a fundraiser with Patrick’s, they will donate up to 40-50% of the proceeds to your organization. Pretty awesome, right? For more information, you can contact ashlyn{@}patrickssunscreen.com or call 714.612.4764.

And I thought this was a very cool product as I have never seen this before! Patrick’s Sunscreen Towelettes are the perfectly portable sunscreen to throw in the diaper bag or stroller so you are never without your sun protection for last minute jaunts to the park. These are not the same chemical-free formula due to the consistency that has to be achieved for use in a towelette but do offer 30 SPF protection, in a delicate lotion that goes on light and greaseless.

These are very easy to use, and a convenient product to send along with your kids so they can apply themselves before soccer or baseball practice after school.

And don’t forget mom!  Throw your Patrick’s Towelettes in your purse for you to have in your purse to protect your shoulders as you watch practice in your tank top!

I love a family-friendly, community-focused company with a goal to help people’s health and wellness, but also the people in the community.

Win it! One lucky reader will win this cute Patrick’s gift basket filled with summer fun sun protection! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

[Disclosure: Patrick’s Sunscreen is a Tiny Oranges sponsor and I am so proud to support a company working to protect our kiddo’s skin from the sun! I was also provided product for review.]