Summer is fast approaching, and we all know what that means – it’s time to stock up on sunscreen. As the weather becomes warmer and days grow longer, we're drawn outdoors to soak up the sun's rays. But with increased sun exposure comes the heightened risk of skin damage, aging, and cancer. This makes sunscreen an indispensable part of daily life, especially during these sun-drenched months.
The only problem is finding eco-friendly sunscreen options. With a ton of buzzwords floating around in the market, it can be hard to know which one to choose. Thankfully, we have done the hard work for you.
Why is Sunscreen Essential?
The sun is a major source of ultraviolet rays. These rays come in two main forms - UVA, which is mostly responsible for long-term skin damage and aging, and UVB, which increases the risk of skin cancer. Sunscreen helps to block these rays, reducing the likelihood of the associated health issues. It can prevent:
- Sunburn
- Premature skin aging
- Skin cancer
- Uneven complexion marks like white and brown spots
The EPA recommends broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 15. But if you will be outdoors for extended periods, then SPF 30 or higher would be ideal. A higher SPF translates to more protection against UV rays.
How to Apply Sunscreen
The best way to apply sunscreen is to cover all areas exposed to the sun. This includes your hands, legs, ears, back of your neck, and tops of your feet. Don’t forget your lips too – get a lip balm or lipstick with at least SPT 15. You also want to:
- Apply sunscreen about 15 minutes before going outdoors to ensure the minerals have time to start working as soon as you enter the sun.
- Use enough sunscreen to cover all exposed skin. Pure Treesy’s sunscreen goes white so you can see where you’ve applied it – and blends into skin in seconds.
- Reapply the product at least every two hours (or more frequently after swimming, sweating, or towel drying).
Why Use Eco-Friendly Sunscreen?
Let's explore some reasons why eco-friendly options are great alternatives:
They are Free from Harmful Chemicals
The greatest reason to use eco-friendly sunscreen is the ingredients. Conventional sunscreens contain chemicals like oxybenzone, octinoxate, and homosalate, which carry a range of health risks. However, eco-friendly options include natural minerals like non-nano zinc oxide, which are safe for regular use.
Protects Marine Life
The harmful chemicals in many conventional sunscreens don't just affect humans; they also impact aquatic ecosystems. For example, oxybenzone and octinoxate have been shown to contribute to coral bleaching and are toxic to various forms of marine life. By choosing reef-safe sunscreens, you help protect coral reefs and other aquatic organisms that are vital to maintaining the biodiversity of our oceans.
Biodegradable
Ecofriendly sunscreens are often biodegradable. This means they disintegrate naturally in the environment and are less likely to cause pollution. You can use them while swimming without worrying about the product accumulating in the water and harming marine life.
Effective Sun Protection
Eco-friendly sunscreens are just as effective (if not better) at protecting against UV rays as their conventional counterparts. Non-nano zinc oxide shields you from the sun’s infrared rays and protects you from the blue light emitted by phones and devices. And the best part is that it's effective immediately. You don't have to wait 20 to 30 minutes before sun exposure to enjoy the benefits.
Suitable for Sensitive Skin
Mineral ingredients are generally gentler than chemical ingredients, making eco-friendly sunscreens ideal for people with sensitive skin. They are less likely to cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, which can be exacerbated by the harsh chemicals found in traditional sunscreens.
Offers Options for Every Skin Type
Today's eco-friendly sunscreens come in various formulations to suit all skin types and preferences. Whether you need water-resistant sunscreen with a matte finish for swimming or sweating or formulated especially for sensitive skin, an eco-friendly product will likely meet your needs.
Supports Sustainable Practices
Many eco-friendly sunscreen brands are committed to environmentally friendly practices, from sourcing ingredients sustainably to using recyclable packaging. By supporting these brands, you contribute to broader sustainability efforts.
Pure Treesy’s Natural Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Pure Treesy's MAMA SOL 100% Mineral Moisturizing Sunscreen is an exemplary choice for those seeking a natural, reef-safe option that prioritizes skin health and environmental sustainability. It’s a 3-in-1 product that serves as a sunscreen, makeup liner, and moisturizer, perfect for all skin tones and types.
Mama Sol mineral sunscreen for the face and body contains natural ingredients and is a safe choice for people with sensitive skin and pregnant and nursing moms.
Here’s a closer look at its benefits:
- It serves as an SPF 30 sunscreen, a moisturizer, and a makeup primer. It simplifies your skincare routine without compromising protection and nourishment.
- It’s a youth-preserving formula and helps reduce wrinkles and fine lines and also brighten a dull looking skin.
- Gentle formulation, and is ideal for sensitive skin, including those who are pregnant or nursing. It's soothing and non-irritating, and therefore a suitable choice for daily use.
- Packaged in recyclable glass, MAMA SOL emphasizes sustainability, reducing plastic waste and environmental impact.
- It’s 100% mineral-based with no harmful chemicals. It does not contribute to coral bleaching or aquatic toxicity, which conventional sunscreens can cause.
- The sunscreen's lightweight, non-greasy texture makes it a pleasure to apply, absorbing nicely into the skin without leaving a white cast.
How to Select Eco-Friendly Mineral Sunscreen for Your Face and Body
Always read the ingredient list. A good sunscreen will have active ingredients that provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Pure Treesy’s Mama Sol sunscreen for instance, has 15% of non-Nano zinc oxide along with other inactive ingredients like squalene, moringa oleifera, sacha inchi, etc., for sun protection and hydration.
If you love to swim or tend to sweat, go for a water-resistant sunscreen. This will offer protection even as you sweat or swim, and will also protect marine life (for the case of swimming).
Summer is the season of outdoor everything. Don’t let the sun stop you from enjoying your summer – the season goes by too fast! Grab your organic sunscreen from Pure Treesy, protect your skin and make the most of every sunny day.
