Tips for Staying Safe from the Sun, Naturally
As the summer heat continues to climb, it’s important to protect our skin from damaging UV rays. But with so many sunscreen options out there, how do you know which one will give you the best protection? The answer may surprise you: natural sunscreens! Natural and sustainable products made by companies that prioritize green practices can offer a safe and healthy way to enjoy the outdoors without worrying about sunburns or skin damage.
In this article, we’ll discuss why you should opt for natural sunscreens over traditional ones, the different kinds of natural and sustainable sunscreens available, and tips for choosing the right one for you.
What is SPF and Which One is Right for Me?
When looking for sunscreen, you’ll want to pay attention to two main things: its SPF rating and whether it’s broad-spectrum. SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor; the higher the number, the more protection the product will provide from both UVA and UVB rays (UVA leads to aging, while UVB is what causes sunburns). Broad-spectrum means that the product will protect you from both types of rays.
For most people, an SPF rating between 30 and 50 is ideal: it offers good protection without being too heavy or greasy. For those with very fair skin, a higher SPF may be necessary. Keep in mind that no sunscreen is totally foolproof, so reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating heavily.
Why Choose Natural Sunscreen?
Natural sunscreen ingredients come from plants and minerals that have been proven to protect against UVA rays, which are responsible for premature aging, and UVB rays that cause sunburns. Plus, these ingredients don’t contain any synthetic chemicals or fragrances that can be harsh and irritating to the skin. This means that natural sunscreen is much gentler on your skin than traditional sunscreens, which often contain harsh chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate that have been linked to skin irritation and hormone disruption.
Natural Sunscreen Options
When it comes to natural sunscreens, there are two main types: mineral-based and plant-based.
Mineral-Based Sunscreens: Mineral-based sunscreens contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as their active ingredients. These minerals act like a physical barrier between your skin and the sun’s rays, deflecting and reflecting them away.
Plant-Based Sunscreens: Plant-based sunscreens are made with oils derived from plants like shea butter, coconut oil, and almond oil. These ingredients contain antioxidants that absorb UV rays, helping to protect your skin from damage.
Tips for Choosing the Right Natural Sunscreen
1. Check the ingredients list: Make sure that the sunscreen you choose contains only natural and organic ingredients.
2. Look for the right SPF: Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to ensure your skin is properly protected from UVA and UVB rays.
3. Try out different types: Not all natural sunscreens are the same, so it’s important to test out a few different options to find the one that works best for you and your skin type.
4. Don’t forget to reapply: Natural sunscreens tend to be less water-resistant than their traditional counterparts, so you’ll need to reapply often if you plan on spending a lot of time outdoors.
Companies that Offer Natural Sunscreens
Badger Balm: Badger Balm offers a wide range of natural sunscreens for the whole family, including their Mineral SPF 30 Sunscreen Cream and their Kids Sunscreen Stick.
Thinksport: Thinksport has an extensive selection of sun-safe products, ranging from mineral-based to plant-based sunscreen lotions and sprays.
Babo Botanicals: This company specializes in natural baby care products, including their plant-based Sunscreen SPF 50 Mineral Lotion and their Sheer Zinc Oxide SPF 50 Baby Sunscreen Stick.
All Good Organics: All Good’s natural sunscreens are formulated with organic oils, extracts, and minerals for gentle yet effective sun protection.
Suntegrity: Suntegrity offers mineral-based sunscreens that are free from synthetic fragrances and chemicals. Their SPF 30 Natural Mineral Sunscreen is a great option for daily use.
Goddess Garden Organics: Goddess Garden’s natural sunscreens are made with organic ingredients that nourish the skin while providing broad-spectrum protection.
Raw Elements: Raw Elements has a wide range of natural and eco-friendly suncare products, including their SPF 30 & 50 Sunscreen Creams.
Kokua Sun Care: Kokua Sun Care’s vegan mineral sunscreens are formulated with sustainably-sourced ingredients and biodegradable packaging.
Tropic Sport: Tropic Sport offers a variety of mineral-based sunscreens, from their SPF 30 Face Stick to their SPF 50 Continuous Spray.
All of these companies offer natural sunscreen products that provide effective protection from the sun’s UV rays while being gentle on your skin. So, when it comes to choosing the right sunscreen for you and your family, make sure to check out these brands and pick one that works best for you!
No matter which natural sunscreen brand or product you choose, always remember to apply a generous amount of sunscreen before heading outdoors, and don’t forget to reapply often if you’ll be out in the sun for an extended period of time. Your skin will thank you!