Sunscreens that are based on chemicals are being gradually substituted for sunscreens that are more natural or organic. The reason for that is the health and the environment. The question remains though: do these natural and organic sunscreens serve their purpose? This is the purpose of this article: to examine these sunscreens in depth, examine the reasons why they are trendy with people, and examine how they perform against the chemical ones.
What Is Natural and Organic Sunscreen?
The very essence of a true sunscreen lies in its ecological constituents, including plant oils, minerals, and herb extracts, among others. Unlike chemical filters, which do a good job of incorporating potentially harmful UV rays into the skin thanks to a variety of toxic synthetic chemicals, the natural version mainly consists of external bulking agents like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that help prevent UV rays from penetrating the skin. Such products guarantee no use of any processed chemicals, parabens, or even fragrances and hence are very suitable for women with sensitive skin.
Why Choose Natural and Organic Sunscreens?
Due to the issues related to the absorption of chemical sunscreen components by the skin that may be unsafe or harmful to the environment, as well as other reasons, many individuals prefer their organic and natural sunscreens. Some itches are due to reactions to certain skin conditions. Most over-the-counter sunscreens carry oxybenzone and octinoxate, which irritate the skin and are hormone-disrupting chemicals. As a rule, such preparations are refraining from the use of hazardous substances that can be absorbed into the bloodstream and are safe for the skin. Besides, green sunscreen contains marine-friendly ingredients that tend to pose minimal risk to sea organisms, including coral reefs.
Effectiveness of Natural and Organic Sunscreens
The number one issue regarding organic sunscreens is whether they can indeed protect skin from UV radiation. The most commonly used natural sunblock active ingredients are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which claim a wide coverage of UV rays by just bouncing them off. While chemical sunblocks draw in UV rays, mineral washes do the opposite and shield all at once. Other research has also indicated that natural sunblocks could be almost as effective as chemical sunblocks if used in adequate amounts and appropriately. Well, perhaps such would have been the case during hot sunny afternoons, which necessitate swimming and/or sweating anyway.
Comparing Natural Sunscreen with Chemical Sunscreens
The other main differences of natural as compared to chemical ones stand in the ingredients and how they function. The chemical ones contain avobenzone and octocrylene, which absorb UV rays and convert them to heat. As compared to chemical ones, however, natural sunscreens do not seem to irritate a sensitive skin type or are more likely to be allergic in nature. Natural sunscreens work as a physical barrier, providing instant protection. However, due to the presence of minerals, they sometimes cast a white residue on the skin, which forms an unsightly residue on some consumers’ skins. Both types of sunscreens are quite effective in resisting the sun. Natural sunscreens are perceived as healthier and more environmentally friendly than chemical sunscreens.
How to Choose the Right Natural Sunscreen
Several considerations come into play in choosing the right natural sunscreen. First and foremost, the product must provide broad-spectrum protection; otherwise, it will only protect against UVA or UVB rays, but not both. Second, the rating of the product includes SPF ratings. For daily wear, SPFs of 30 or higher are best. Lastly, consider the formulation of sunscreen, available as lotion, cream, or spray. Be sensitive to skin type; users with oily skin will prefer noncomedogenic formulas, while dry-skinned individuals may like a moisturizing formula. You also want to be careful of allergens or irritants in the list of ingredients if you have sensitive skin.
Top Natural and Organic Sunscreen Brands
Badger Balm: Famous for simple, organic ingredients and formulas with a high performance level.
ThinkSport: Great protection for athletes with wide spectrum and water resistance.
Raw Elements Non-toxic and reef-safe. Safe for beach users.
ALL GOOD Known for using certified organic ingredients and sustainable packaging.
Juice Beauty offers organic sunscreens rich in antioxidants, designed for every skin type.
Application Tips for Natural Sunscreens
Apply natural sunscreen generously to all exposed areas of your skin, remembering often-overlooked areas such as ears, neck, and the backs of your hands. Since natural sunscreens are water-resistant but not waterproof, reapply the same way as stated above after swimming or sweating heavily, or at least every two hours. For those worried about the whitish hue, however, good news: there are also tinted versions that blend better with other skin tones.
Addressing Concerns About Natural Sunscreens
Natural sunscreens are perceived as inadequate in providing protection and are too inconvenient to apply. This is partially true because they do have the tendency of requiring applications that are more frequent compared to the chemical ones. However, their effectiveness when applied is not so different from that of chemical sunscreens. Presently, formulations have been improved such that most of the disadvantageous features of them have become uncommon. A reminder to consumers is the fact that any type of sunscreen has to be applied regularly and adequately for maximum sun protection.
Conclusion
Natural and organic sunscreens are a viable option for effective protection from chemical sunscreens; they provide broad-spectrum protection without the use of potentially harmful chemicals. They are especially helpful to people with sensitive skin who react to the chemicals in sunscreen and all those worried about environmental issues. Natural sunscreens will almost always need to be reapplied more frequently and sometimes leave a white cast, but it’s worth it for the benefits they offer. Thus, for those who care to consider a safer and greener alternative, natural sunscreens are the great choice because this is, after all, the decision between the ‘natural’ and ‘chemical’ sunscreen.
FAQs
What are natural and organic sunscreens and how do they vegetate civil sunscreens?
Natural sunscreens contain chemical compounds like Zinc Oxide, while organic ones contain vegetative products. Chemical s based sun screens make use of chemicals such as Oxybenzone.
Do natural and organic sunscreens work?
Yes, it works on the skin protection by the minerals such as zinc oxide found in it however they seem to be less effective as to the meaning of the application where this type of sunscreen is often applied.
What are the limitations of natural and organic sunscreens?
They can cause a white cast and are usually more viscous, requiring several applications as compared to chemical based sunscreens.
