With long, hot days of summer here, it’s crucial to protect our skin from overexposure.
With so many sunscreen options available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Let’s explore the advantages of mineral-based sunscreens over conventional ones.
Sun Waves
There are three types of UV radiation: UVC, UVB, and UVA. The ozone layer absorbs 100% of UVC, 90% of UVB, and only a small portion of UVA. Overexposure of UVA is associated with skin pigmentation, inflammation & aging, while UVB is associated with sunburn & skin DNA damage & mutations.
When the UV level passes 3, sun protection is recommended (you can usually check this on your weather app).
Conventional Sunscreen
Chemical sunscreens penetrate the skin & absorb UV radiation, converting it to a very low level of heat. While they might feel lighter on the skin, they often contain compounds that can be irritating & potentially harmful. One chemical used is oxybenzone, which has been detected in human urine, serum & breast milk samples, raising concerns about its negative consequences on the human body. Furthermore, oxybenzone has been found to cause a range of harmful effects in coral & fish, including reef bleaching & death.
Mineral Based Sunscreen
Mineral-based sunscreen creates a physical barrier on your skin to reflect the UV rays, similar to wearing clothes. These sunscreens are usually made from zinc oxide & titanium dioxide & a thicker application will usually provide a higher level of protection.
Choosing a Safer Sunscreen
It’s important to choose a sunscreen that protects you from UVA & UVB rays.
Also look for a cream or lotion application. Whilst spray may seem easier to apply, the small particles in this application method may be dangerous to inhale or ingest.
When looking for a mineral-based sunscreen, choose one that states ‘nano-free’ or ‘non-nano’. Sunscreen manufacturers, even mineral-based sunscreen, can use nanoparticles, tiny ingredients measured in a billionths of a meter, to boost the SPF level. These miniscule ingredients are more likely to be absorbed through the skin & enter the bloodstream, potentially causing damage to your body cells.
Zinc oxide is a mineral based sunscreen ingredient that is less likely to penetrate the skin break & be absorbed into the bloodstream.
*It’s important to check the sunscreen label for application instructions, but usually application every 2 hours & after sweating or swimming is a good rule.
Vitamin D Concern
One common concern about sunscreen is its potential to block vitamin D production. When the skin is exposed to UV radiation from the sun, a series of processes begin in the skin that lead to the production of vitamin D. This nutrient is crucial for our overall health, aiding in bone strength & supporting our immune system. To prevent deficiency, spend time outside first thing in the morning & mid-afternoon, when the UV level is below 3.
If you are concerned about your vitamin D levels, this can be checked with a blood test.
Other Sun Protection Tips
Keep your skin safe under the sun:
- Seek Shade: Whenever possible, find a shady spot, especially during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.).
- Wear Protective Clothing: Long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats & UV-blocking sunglasses can provide additional layers of sun protection.
- Be Mindful of Reflective Surfaces: Water, sand & even concrete can reflect UV rays, increasing your exposure.
Choosing the right sunscreen is vital for your own health as well as our planet, including those that inhabit the oceans we swim in. By selecting a mineral based option, you’re protecting yourself from harmful UV rays & caring for your skin. Remember, sun safety is about balance: enjoy the sun while protecting your skin & monitoring your vitamin D levels. If you have questions about the best product for you & your family, consult one of our in-store naturopaths for guidance.
By Jessica Masterton
Naturopath (BHSc)
@terra.rhythmics.naturopathy
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