The smell of sunscreen means only one thing. Summer has arrived and we’re heading outside to make the most of the longer days and the suns warming rays! However, some suncreams contain a cocktail of toxic ingredients which may be harmful to your health and contribute towards unwanted symptoms or conditions.
The benefits of sunscreen:
Sunscreen essentially protects the skin from the two types of ultraviolet (UV) radiation emitted from the sun. Ultraviolet A (UVA), a long wavelength which can cause the skin to burn and Ultraviolet B (UVB), a shorter wavelength associated with skin ageing. Around 95% of the ultraviolet rays which reach the skin through sunlight are UVA but when applying a sunscreen, it’s important to use one that contains both UVA and UVB for extra protection.
However, there are causes for concern around the safety of certain ingredients found in many sun screen products and so it’s crucial to know exactly what you’re putting on your skin.
Chemical filters v mineral filters:
Sun creams contain a variety of ingredients, including UV filters, moisturisers, and other additives. The most common types of UV filters used in sunscreens are chemical filters which absorb UV radiation. Some commonly used chemical filters include avobenzone, octinoxate, homosalate and oxybenzone.
These chemical filters can be highly toxic to the body. Once absorbed through the skin they then leach into the blood stream which can impact hormones and disrupt the endocrine system, causing problems for the thyroid and reproductive system.
In contrast, mineral sunblock’s are a type of sunscreen that use minerals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as active ingredients. Where toxic chemical sunscreens absorb into the skin like a moisturiser, mineral sunblock’s sit on top of the skin and ‘block’ the UV rays from penetrating the skin, creating a physical barrier which reflects UV radiation.
Alternative solutions and general recommendations:
There are many ways you can stay sun safe to maintain healthy skin and minimise the risk of sun damage. They include.
1. Avoid the sun during peak times of the day (10am-4pm), when it is at its strongest and use the shadow rule – if your shadow is shorter than your height, avoid the sun as the UV rays are too strong.
2. Always read the label to check ingredients. Most suncreams and sprays use toxic chemicals which can be carcinogenic (cancer-causing) and are linked to hormone disruption. Avoid where possible.
3. Make your own sunscreen at home using a few natural ingredients. Blend a natural carrier oil like carrot seed oil, which has a high SPF factor of 38-40 with beeswax and zinc oxide. Aim for organic ingredients where possible.
4. Wear sunglasses that block out both UVA and UVB rays. Aim for a UV rating of 400 plus.
5. Include skin-protecting foods in your diet that are rich in Vitamin C and beta-carotene. These include mango, watermelon, carrots, leafy greens and sweet potato.
6. Protect your face with a wide-brimmed hat and body with UV protection clothing, such as a rash vest.
7. If your skin feels dehydrated moisturise it with a blend of fresh aloe vera gel and coconut oil for a cooling and nourishing effect.
Before we block the sun out completely it’s important to remember that it has many healing benefits too. It increases our levels of serotonin, one of our happy hormones, which improves our mood and sleep/wake cycles, and helps synthesise Vitamin D, an immune boosting hormone which keeps our bones strong and healthy by helping the body absorb calcium from the diet. As long as you’re not spending hours in direct sunlight and at the risk of burning yourself, it’s important to let your skin soak up some of those healing rays before you put on any cream on – up to 15 minutes a day is a good rule of thumb.
If you are looking for support for any health conditions or symptoms and are interested in nutritional therapy please send an email to lisa@floweroflifenutrition.co.uk to book in a free 20-minute discovery call.
