Choosing a natural sun lotion this summer
Apply, Reapply, Apply, Reapply……..
Some days it feels like this is the official summer mantra in my home, especially over the holidays!!! Summer is definitely our favourite time of the year and my boys know that summer and sunscreen have to go hand in hand.
As the days get warmer stocking up on the right SPF is essential so I thought I would take a closer look at what options we have in sunscreens and why we should be choosing natural and organic sun lotions everytime.
Ingredients to look out for:
Always try choose a mineral based, clean & nontoxic sunblock that contains a organic UVA/UVB blocker like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as it’s main ingredient and avoid conventional and synthetic sunblocks.
Mineral sun lotions are healthier and better for us as they reflect the sun’s rays away from the skin helping to protect the skin and not absorb the rays, which chemical sunscreens do. They contain no chemicals and use plant-based oils allowing your skin to breath. The down side (if there is one) is that the zinc oxide can appear whitish on the skin so you need to find one that agrees with your skin tone.
Synthetic and chemical sunblocks contain a common active ingredient oxybenzone and octinoxate. Oxybenzone can be found in almost 80 percent of all chemical sunscreens on the market for it’s ability to absorb and break apart UV light, allowing us to be in the sun longer and and prevent sunburn (like creating a false sense of security). Even though it protects against sunburn it still absorbs into our system via the skin and can stay there indefinitely. Studies have linked oxybenzone to hormone disruption, endometriosis, skin irritations and even cell damage.
Recently the state of Hawaii approved a bill to ban all toxic sunscreen containing either of these two ingredients because it is killing their coral reefs.
A few years ago I would not of thought twice about buying any sunscreen on the market, especially the delicious smelling ones. But as I am becoming more aware of the dangers of over exposure to the sun and also teaching my boys about protecting their skin, I am looking at choosing sunscreens that don’t have chemicals or synthetic ingredients in them. If you were going to pick only one part of your beauty choices to go clean or natural, why don’t you start with sun protection.
Here are some natural sunscreens you can buy locally:
(you can click on the tag sign to view or purchase the sunscreen online)
Sunumbra Daily SFP15
This gentle natural sunscreen is formulated to give you and your family highly effective and balanced protection from the sun’s UVA and UVB rays. Made with zinc oxide and a blend of natural botanical ingredients, the Sunumbra formula is safe for the whole family and suitable for those with sensitive skin. It’s lightweight, non-whitening and moisturising, so you can wear it anywhere, in all weathers and seasons. The perfect daily sun protection solution.
Oh-Lief Natural Sunscreen & Kids Facestick SPF30
This CANSA-approved SPF30 mineral sunscreen has got you and your family covered, when it comes to protecting your skin from the sun’s UVA and UVB rays. Oh-Lief, a trusted South African natural family skin care brand, has finally added a sun protection range to their much-loved product selection. This broad-spectrum sunblock is made using non-nano zinc oxide, a natural soft mineral that sits on the skin without sinking in. That means the Oh-Lief sunscreen creates a physical “sun-blocking” barrier, protecting your skin without absorbing into your bloodstream. This fragrance-free, water resistant SPF30 sunblock is ideal for use all over your body.
The Oh-Lief SPF30 sunscreen face stick is so easy to apply, and fits neatly in beach bags or handbags, so smart moms and dads can always keep one handy on family holiday trips. With beeswax, coconut oil, pomegranate and carrot extracts, this sunblock formula is kind to sensitive skin and won’t cause irritation or block the pores.
Juice Beauty SPF30 oil-free moisturizer
Juice Beauty is an international company that produces the most beautiful organic skincare that I have secretly wanted for many years. I am so excited that you can now buy it online at Faithful to Nature. The Juice Beauty oil-free moisturiser is combination of face sunscreen and a moisturiser to hydrate, protect and maintain your skin’s natural moisture balance. It is a lightweight, zinc broad spectrum SPF 30 moisturiser, antioxidant rich certified organic grape and pomegranate, soothing aloe vera, vitamins, antioxidants and nutrient rich sea algae.
The Lovisa skincare range is made locally in South Africa by Lisa Voges who has 20 years experience in the beauty industry. LovisaSkin is an organic skincare range offering you professional results at home. Their products contain no chemicals or paragons and the sunscreen has an SPF20 and contains raspberry seed oil.
Raspect Surf Salvation & Surfyogis
Both these sunscreens are made with zinc oxide, which shields your skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays and FANTASTIC if you spend long hours in the water surfing, surf skiing, paddling, or doing any other water sports.
Raspect is a South African brand that is a rich, skin-loving formula with a blend of beeswax, castor oil, cocoa and coconut oil. It feels good, and smells great! Great to give you (or your husband/kids/boyfriend) the extra bit of sun protection on the nose, ears or face.