Whether you’re spending time at the beach, by the pool, or just in the backyard, you know that it’s important to protect your skin from the sun. We’ve all been warned that the sun’s rays can cause skin damage and cancer. But, the sun also has many health benefits, and if we protect ourselves properly — the healthy way — our bodies will benefit from the protection we use and from the sun’s positive effects. It’s a recipe for the healthiest glow!
Many commercial sunscreens contain harmful ingredients. In fact, according to the Environmental Working Group’s 2015 sunscreen report, 80 percent of sunscreens don’t really work and/or have harmful ingredients. One chemical to watch out for is oxybenzone. Never heard of it? Neither had I, until I learned that oxybenzone is a hormone disruptor that can cause cell damage and blocks only UVB rays, not UVA — the ones that cause aging and skin damage. (For their part, the American Skin Cancer Foundation says that oxybenzone hasn’t been proven to have adverse effects on the body, however research is limited.)
To be safe, I choose to avoid sunscreens with chemicals. There are plenty of natural, organic sunscreens on the market and they are also free of artificial fragrances.
I like Raw Elements’ Eco Formula 30+ Lotion — it is great for the whole family to use!
Personally, I lather my skin with oils from my kitchen cupboard that work as natural sunscreens. A good rule of thumb is, if you can put it in your body, you can put it on your body:
Raspberry seed oil has a natural sun protectant between SPF 30 and 50, making it a fantastic chemical-free sunscreen alternative. Mix 15 drops into 2 ounces of coconut oil, and you’ll have a beach-ready mixture that’s rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as well as vitamin E and antioxidants. It’s also an unbelievable moisturizer that’ll reduce wrinkles and dryness!
Carrot seed oil provides natural sun protection, and is an essential oil rich in antioxidants, just like raspberry seed oil. Better yet, it has antiseptic properties, meaning that it can heal dry and cracked skin and even be used to condition your hair after a swim in the ocean.
How do you take care of your skin in the summer? I’d love to know!
