Sun is shining , spring is here . Many of you wondering which is the best natural sunscreen to wear this year.
The more I read and investigate conventional sunscreen with chemical filters the less I am liking it and the more I fear them. May 2019 FDA reported that sunscreen chemicals when used just one day penetrated the bloodstream reaching level exceeding the standards. Oxybenzone one of the most common ingredients in sunscreen changes your complex metabolic machine and overload your liver and make you sick . Sunscreen sales has gone up 38 times in the last 30 years , meanwhile the most dangerous skin cancer melanoma has double since 1982 . Is there any relationship between these numbers? Does this make any sense? The more sunscreen is used the more cancer there is? It doesn’t make sense. Does it?
To be honest when I was studying cosmetic science and formulating sunscreen I remember saying to myself, these ingredients don’t feel right . I couldn’t understand fully why but now I know more. So are conventional sunscreen truly safe? Well, it is in doubt is out !
I was born and raised in South of Spain but I have lived in Ireland for 14 years . I have tried many many skincare brands: chemical filters and natural filters . Most of them caused my eyes itch and/or were comedogenic.
Three years ago after attending a webinar that helped to join the dots I decided not to wear sunscreen anymore. I protect myself on the shade and hat and build a good healthy relationship with the Sun . I expose myself to the sun sensibly to avoid any sunscreen , natural or synthetic. I consciously sunbathe without wearing any product adapting my skin to different hours on the day. The health benefits of the sun are greater and priority for me than the potential wrinkles I may get.
Only if I am going to expose myself for long hours to the sun then I would wear natural sunscreen made by myself. I never get burnt either get sun spots even though I have threatened by a dermatologist for so many years that my pale skin with freckles is prone to skin cancer. He told me to wear sunscreen all day every day of the year from the moment I get up and go to bed. I followed his advice for many years however I completely disagree with this now that I have more information and knowledge.
Believe it or not I used to get more some spots when using sunscreen that now that I don’t . Why? I used to expose my face and my body many hours to the sun without feeling burnt . But if you think about it , the sunscreen is kind of cheating your body system. Read that again!
Fast forward I am studying a lot about skin cancer , and it is not really the sun (unless you obviously sunburn) what causes skin cancer it is really the state of your inner health directly related with what you eat that reacts with sun that can provoke it. Same happen with hyperpigmentation , sun spots happen depending on your diet . The sun is not the cause.
I practice the “callo solar” which it is a Spanish term difficult to translate into English , that means to build up natural sun protection in your skin. Guess what ? Sun produces among many other things , melanin which is the natural protection on our skin. If you block the sun your body can not make melanin . This melanin production needs to be allowed in the proper way without getting burn.
The best time for melanin production are sunrise and sunset which our bodies are exposed to red and infrared light . Both lights are key for our health and skin protection. Also extremely good for our vision. I don’t wear sunglasses any longer since I learnt information hidden to us. Only in specific occasions like driving, or I get glare in a white space.
Using shade and sun alternatively and covering the skin with some clothes at some point create a combination to shield yourself from the sun at the same time you can still enjoy it, without burning your skin and allowing the wonderful sun to do its magical function in our bodies. We are solar bodies. Sun is medicine
Besides the sun filters remember to use skincare high antioxidant ingredients as these are the ones that protect the skin from the free radicals and oxidative stress.
Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is essential, and choosing a natural sunscreen can help minimize exposure to potentially harmful chemicals while being kinder to the environment. Here are ten reputable natural sunscreen brands available in Europe:
Lavera
Founded in 1987 in Germany, Lavera offers 100% certified natural suncare products using organic plant ingredients. Their sunscreens are free from parabens, SLS, microplastics, and synthetic additives, making them suitable for sensitive skin.
Phyt’s
Established in 1972, this French brand provides 100% natural mineral-based sunscreens made with organic ingredients. Phyt’s products are certified by Cosmebio and EcoCert, ensuring adherence to high organic standards.
Weleda
With roots dating back to 1921 in Germany, Weleda produces non-toxic sunscreens free of parabens, synthetic fragrances, and microplastics. Approximately three-quarters of their plant ingredients come from organic or biodynamic farming.
Green People
This UK-based brand is renowned for its certified organic skincare products. Their scent-free sun lotions protect against UVA and UVB rays and are formulated with natural ingredients like green tea and aloe vera, suitable for sensitive skin.
Sol de Ibiza
This brand offers natural mineral sunscreens packaged in plastic-free tins or sticks. Their products use zinc oxide for UV protection and include ingredients like aloe vera and calendula, known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
Naif
A Dutch brand started by two fathers, Naif provides natural sunscreens free from oxybenzone, mineral oils, and silicones. Their products are ocean-friendly, non-nano, and suitable for all skin types.
Nuura
Based in Barcelona, Nuura offers organic, mineral-based sunscreens that are highly biodegradable and ocean-friendly. Their SPF50 cream acts against UVA, UVB, and IR rays, making it suitable for sensitive and fair skin.
Di Oleo
Founded by two Belgians in Spain, Di Oleo produces 100% natural, vegan, and organic sunscreens. Their SPF30 cream provides high immediate protection using non-nano zinc oxide and nourishing oils like olive and coconut.
When selecting a sunscreen, consider factors such as your skin type, the level of sun exposure, and any specific skin concerns. Opting for natural sunscreens not only protects your skin but also supports environmental sustainability.
Cheers,
La Mayca x