cover yourself: prevent skin cancer

I am a freak about sunscreen. California is not short of sun at any time of the year, but that doesn’t mean I want to be all icky and wrinkly when I’m older, and I certainly don’t want skin cancer.

It’s Skin Cancer Awareness month, so listen to these factoids: In 2007, it was estimated that nearly 60,000 new cases of melanoma (the serious skin cancer) were reported, according to the American Cancer Society. There are about 10,000 deaths due to melanoma a year.

Is it worth that price to be tan? Not really.

Here are some great indie finds from my favorite place, etsy, to keep you safe as the sun pours down.

Although I use commercial sunscreen, I think I’d like to give this organic, totally natural sunscreen a try from the Windsong. Not sure about how protective it is, however.

$5. Contains tea tree oil, aloe vera, cocoa butter, and zinc.

Wide brim hats are not only stylish, but they totally protect your sensitive face from the sun. I love this sunhat from Sookie. It’s made of red denim and has the perfect amount of floppiness.

In sizes small to extra large. Custom orders welcome. $48

This super cute hat from Danielle Grace has a surprise candy cane lining. Plus, it has a little brooch you can use to pin the brim up, or on your jacket.

Hat fits small to medium heads. Additional sizes available upon request. $54