Summer is on its way, bringing with it long lazy days of sea and sunshine. Getting that sun-kissed beach babe glow is definitely en vogue, but of course none of us want to deal with painful sunburn. So, the annual race to purchase sun protection products has begun.
There are all kinds of sun protection products out there. Some are made to prevent sunburn, while others (those heavily scented bronzing oils) are made to enhance your tan. Most of them are loaded with artificial additives, and many are still tested on animals. What are the effects of these products? Do they really protect you, or do they cause more problems than they solve?
How Smart is Your Sun Protection?
Ordinary sunscreens contain UV filters and chemicals that penetrate the epidermis. That means they’re easily absorbed through your skin into your bloodstream. These ingredients can cause skin reactions, irritation, and other more serious health issues. They have also been shown to have endocrine disrupting effects, which means they can mess with your hormonal balance.
Here’s something for all the health-conscious mamas out there to consider. According to a study led by a Dr. Margaret Schlumpf, UV filters are absorbed through the skin and released through breast milk. You don’t want those nasties going into your baby’s system either!
Next time you’re in the supermarket, pick up a bottle of sunscreen and read the label. You’re likely to see a list of chemical substances like oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate and octinoxate. All this stuff is going onto your skin, into your system and into the ocean.
Sunscreens and Coral Reefs
The release of these substances affects not only humans, but also the environment. Ingredients contained in ordinary sunscreens can contaminate beaches, rivers and lakes. In tropical seas, crowded by tourists the whole year round, the greatest risk – according to the Italian researcher Roberto Danovaro – is the formation of latent viral organisms, triggered by the products’ chemical filters. This leads to coral bleaching, destroying our planet’s precious marine ecosystems.
Dr. Karl Fent, of the Northwestern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences in Muttenz, has tracked the presence of this type of contamination in fish, river crabs and cormorants in the waters of Switzerland. These substances also reach the oceans through domestic sewage, as they’re included in our personal care products.
If tanning and sun care products affect ocean life like this, imagine how they could affect your health, as you rub them directly onto your skin!
Natural Sun Protection Options
While conventional sunscreens sink into your skin, natural mineral sunblocks are designed to sit on top of your skin, creating a protective barrier that blocks out UV rays. The active ingredient in these products is usually zinc oxide, which provides a barrier against UVA and UVB rays. The zinc particles used are large enough that they won’t penetrate your skin’s pores.
When choosing your sun protection, avoid products that contain benzophenone-3 (an allergenic substance), and those containing parabens (particularly toxic preservatives). Keep a lookout for paraffin and other synthetic oils and greases, such as silicone. These oils are not 100% compatible with your skin, whereas vegetal oils (like coconut and jojoba) are actually good for your skin, and are found in many natural sunblocks.
Look for sunblocks with natural, skin-loving additions like beeswax, plant oils and soothing aloe extract. You should also try to avoid sun protection products that contain synthetic fragrances and colours – the fewer additives, the better.
Remember to practice sun safety when you’re out and about. Avoid sun exposure during peak sun intensity hours, and if that isn’t an option, be sure to protect your skin with a high quality natural sunblock. Protect your head from UV rays with a hat, and cover up with lightweight clothing, to reduce your skin’s exposure. Reapply your sun protection regularly, and always reapply after swimming, sweating or towel-drying. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and show your skin some love in the evenings, by replenishing it with a natural after-sun lotion.
Stay safe, keep it real and enjoy a beautiful summer!
Ren xx