Here comes the sun!

Your guide to natural, chemical-free suncare

Summer is here and we’re all spending more time outdoors, so protecting our skin is a top health priority. When it comes to choosing sun protection, natural and organic sunscreens provide a gentler, more eco-friendly alternative to conventional, synthetic products. So what exactly makes natural suncare different? YHL finds out.

Protect yourself
“Unprotected exposure to UVA and UVB leads to sunburn and could lead to serious health problems, such as skin cancer,” says Paula Gómez de Tejada, Global Communications and Public Relations Manager with NATRUE (The International Natural and Organic Cosmetics Association). “In addition, as UVA can contribute to accelerated or premature skin ageing, called photoageing, sun protection is vital for the health of our body; especially so during the summer months when the sun is higher in the sky, increasing our skin’s daily dose of harmful UV light. Sun protection is particularly important for children who are more sensitive to sun damage than adults.”

Natural vs synthetic:
What’s the difference?
When shopping for sun protection, the type of sunscreen you choose matters more than you might think. “Natural and synthetic sunscreens differ mainly in their active ingredients and how they protect the skin,” says Diane Nettleton, founder of GAIA Skincare (www.gaiaskincare.com). “Natural sunscreens use minerals like zinc oxide, which sit on the skin’s surface and physically reflect UV rays, whereas synthetic sunscreens absorb into the skin and use chemicals to absorb the sun’s rays.” Natural options are often chosen by those seeking gentler ingredients, especially for sensitive skin, babies, or those concerned about long-term chemical exposure.

Concerns about chemicals
While synthetic sunscreens are effective at preventing sunburn, many people are starting to question what else they might be absorbing. “Concerns about chemical sunscreens stem from both health and environmental impacts,” says Diane. “Certain ingredients, like oxybenzone, have been linked to hormonal disruption and allergic skin reactions in some people. Environmentally, chemical sunscreens pose a threat to marine ecosystems when they are washed off into the ocean and can damage coral reefs and marine life. This is why it’s important to look for SPFs marked ‘reef safe’.”

Paula Gómez de Tejada adds: “The loss of corals reduces biodiversity, affects the habitat of numerous fish and crustaceans that depend on coral reefs, and can increase the risk of coastal damage from waves and storms.”

Why natural is a better choice
As natural sunscreens tend to avoid harsh preservatives, synthetic fragrances and chemicals, they are kinder to our skin. “Natural sunscreens are generally gentler on sensitive skin, reducing the risk of irritation or allergic reactions,” says Diane. “Also, they start working immediately upon application, unlike chemical sunscreens, which need time to absorb. Most importantly, they are often reef-safe and biodegradable, making them a more eco-conscious choice: better for you and the planet.”

Understanding SPF
When you’re shopping for your natural sunscreen, always be sure to look for a product with an SPF, which stands for Sun Protection Factor. “The SPF measures how well a sunscreen protects the skin from UVA and UVB rays, which are the main cause of sunburn and a contributor to skin cancer,” says Diane. “A higher SPF offers longer protection, and it’s important to remember to reapply all SPF throughout the day to protect your skin continuously.”

So, this summer, be sure to check out the range of natural and organic sunscreens available from your local independent health store. Today’s formulas are a far cry from the thick, chalky versions of the past. With tinted options, sheer finishes and water-resistant products to choose from, there is a natural sunscreen to suit everyone. Your skin, and the planet, will thank you.

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