Why should you use a Natural Sunscreen?

Why should you use a Natural Sunscreen?

Are you thinking about changing to a natural sunscreen? Whether you are looking for a safe sunscreen for babies and children, need a sun cream that won’t cause irritation or just want to know what all the fuss is about. Read on to find out why you should choose a natural and organic sunscreen.

What is sunscreen?

Sunscreen is used to protect your skin against damage caused by the sun. This includes sunburn and skin cancer, both associated with exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays from the sun.

Many sunscreens contain toxic chemicals and other harmful ingredients. The substances in many sunscreens don’t stay on the skin they penetrate it. As a result this exposes you to possible short term and long term harm, depending on the chemical ingredients in the product. Some of the chemicals can reach the bloodstream and even show up in breast milk.

Natural mineral sunscreens usually contain titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Therefore protecting the skin by creating a barrier rather than penetrating the skin. As a result, these products are often referred to as sun blockers as they sit on top of the skin and physically block or reflect the sun’s UVA and UVB rays. Natural brands also tend to avoid parabens, phthalates and harsh preservatives.

Is it safer to use a natural sunscreen?

All sunscreens in the UK have to adhere to strict safety standards. However, concerns have been raised about some of the chemical ingredients that are used in non-natural sun care products. These types of synthetic ingredients are easily absorbed and can make their way into breast milk. They can also irritate skin. So you might want to go natural if you have sensitive skin, are pregnant or are buying sunscreen for babies or children.

If you suffer from eczema and other skin conditions, natural sun care products are usually much less likely to aggravate these conditions. If you have sensitive skin, or suffer from prickly heat, sun rash or another skin complaint, look for a fragrance-free natural sunscreen such as Green People Scent Free Sun Lotion.

How do sunscreens affect the environment?

Many ingredients commonly found in sunscreens, but especially oxybenzone, can pollute coral reefs. There are two main ways in which this chemical reaches the oceans. Firstly is by swimming in those waters. Secondly is from municipal sewage lines and coastal septic systems that carry contaminated water from pools and eject it offshore.
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) recommends avoiding ingredients such as oxybenzone, which is a known-allergen and may affect hormone levels. Octinoxate is also an endocrine disruptor (it mimics oestrogen) and is believed to have other potentially unpleasant side-effects.

Natural, non-toxic sunscreen brands tend to avoid ingredients that damage coral and harm marine-life (such as oxybenzone). They’re also usually cruelty-free and vegetarian.

Natural sun protection for babies and children

If you’re looking for a high-SPF natural sunscreen suitable for children, try Green People Organic Children Scent Free Sun Lotion. It is SPF 30 and protects from both UVA and UVB. It’s non-greasy, non-toxic and is free from parabens and harsh chemicals. This is a great choice if you want a safe natural sunscreen for babies and children.

Use a Natural after-sun

After-sun isn’t just for treating sunburn. It helps to keep skin moisturised, soothe inflammation and prolong your tan. Green People Hydrating After Sun contains nourishing natural ingredients, such as Organic Aloe Vera, Chamomile, Calendula, Myrrh & Mint. Also Green People Organic Children Aloe Vera Lotion & After Sun, which is a moisturising lotion for children’s face and body.

Check out our other blog for Sun Safety Tips 🙂