Suncare FAQ

What's the difference between UVA and UVB rays?

Sunlight has different types of ultraviolet radiation - UVA and UVB. UVA rays are deep penetrating and are linked to premature aging, wrinkling and sagging skin.

UVB rays do not penetrate as deep but have 1000 times the effect on the skin, cause burning, and are linked to most skin cancers. Make sure your sunscreen has broad-spectrum protection. Historically, UVA was not seen as a culprit because the damage did not show up right away. UVA's don't cause sunburn, but their aging effects are very real and long lasting. UVA rays can penetrate deep into the dermis, where they can do permanent harm to our DNA, as well as the elastin and collagen fibers that make our skin supple and firm.

Though UVB's do not penetrate as deep as UVA's, UVB's are the rays that cause sunburn, and are one of the foremost causes of skin cancer. UVB rays make your skin tan by triggering the skin's natural protection process. Depending on your skin type, these self-defense systems are damaged with prolonged exposure.

What is a SPF?

A SPF (Sun Protection Factor) indicates the amount of time you can stay in the sun. The SPF indicates the level of protection it offers against the sun. If you normally begin to burn after 10 minutes of sun exposure, a SPF 15 properly applied should protect you for 150 minutes. People with fair skin, or those who spend a lot of time outside should always wear a SPF 30 or above. An SPF value determines UVB protection only.

Does BurnOut provide both UVA and UVB protection?

Yes. BurnOut provides UVA / UVB broad-spectrum protection.

Are there nanoparticles in BurnOut?

No. There are no nanoparticles in any BurnOut products. A nanoparticle is any particle that is 100 nanometers or smaller; many products using nanoparticles use a particle size of 20-60 nm. The zinc oxide in BurnOut has a minimum particle size of 1 micron (1000 nanometers - 10x the size of the largest nanoparticle).

Are BurnOut sunscreens chemical-free, and safe for me and my family?

Yes. BurnOut zinc oxide sunscreens are chemical-free, petroleum-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, paba-free, gluten-free, non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and perfect for sensitive skin.

What does physical sunscreen mean?

Physical sunscreen means that the sunscreen is a mineral sunscreen (like zinc oxide, or titanium dioxide), as opposed to a chemical sunscreen. Mineral sunscreens, like the zinc oxide in BurnOut, work by reflecting the UVA/ UVB rays, as opposed to a chemical sunscreen, which is a chemical UV absorber.

How long before sun exposure do I need to apply BurnOut?

BurnOut is a mineral sunscreen, and is effective immediately upon application.

How often should I reapply?

At least every two hours (please refer to SPF explanation for exact minutes for your skin type). For maximum protection, apply liberally to all exposed areas prior to sun exposure. Reapply often, depending on skin type, and after water sports, perspiration, or towel drying.

Who needs to wear sunscreen?

Everyone needs sunscreen. It is important to use sunscreens every day. For adults, incidental exposure from simple things like driving your car or gardening account for a majority percentage of daily sun exposure.

Do I need to wear sunscreen on a cloudy day?

Even on cloudy days the majority of the sun's rays penetrate light clouds, mist and fog. The cloudiest day in winter can still have up to 80% of the UV light as the hottest day in summer. Why is it so important for kids to wear sunscreen? On average, children get three times more sun exposure than adults. And for most of us, about 80% of our lifetime exposure occurs before the age of 18. Using high SPF 15+ products during the first 18 years of life can dramatically lower the risk of certain types of skin cancer.

Why is BurnOut labeled as water-resistant, and not water-proof?

The FDA regulates sunscreen as an OTC (over the counter) drug, and has stringent labeling requirements and restrictions. The term 'water-proof', although frequently used by sunscreen manufacturers, is not allowed by the FDA.

I want a refund. What do I do?

No problem, you can return for a complete refund. Just give us a call at 1-800-798-7970, or send us an email via our contact form.

Orders shipping 8/7

Orders placed after 1:30 pm PDT on 7/29 will ship on 8/7.