I actually wear a natural sunscreen all year because the sun's harsh rays can have a detrimental effect on the skin regardless of how cold or overcast it may be, but even if you're not a year-round-sunscreen-wearer, we can all agree that it's of the utmost importance during the summer months!
Sun damage is irreversible and can have truly devastating consequences for your overall health, so adequate sun protection is something you really need to take into account this summer. I've put together this list of the the latest natural SPFs, but beyond this you also need to consider hats, sunglasses, coverups and finding shade when the sun is at its most intense. It's also important to be aware of your body, to monitor any changes and to have regular skin checks when possible.
What is mineral SPF?
Most of the mainstream sunscreens you'll find at the supermarkets use chemicals that actually absorb UVA and UVB so that our skin doesn't have to, these are commonly called chemical sunscreens. Mineral sunscreen differ as they rely on minerals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to create a physical barrier- think of natural, mineral sunscreens like a shield between your skin and the sun. In Australia, natural physical sunscreens over SPF 30+ must undergo the same strict testing as chemical sunscreens, so using a natural sunscreen over a chemical sunscreen should never be less effective!
What are the latest minerals sunscreens?
New on the market is the Life Basics - SPF 30 All Natural Facial Sunscreen. It's lightweight, so it doesn't feel thick and greasy like traditional zincs, plus is contains Calendula Extract for its anti-inflammatory properties, Green Tea for its antioxidants and Rosehip Oil to help nourish your skin. It sits beautifully under makeup too, which is why I love wearing it all year round!
Another natural SPF option is the Eco logical Face Sunscreen SPF 30+. It contains 20% Zinc Oxide but doesn't leave a whitecast on the skin, plus it's rich in antioxidants to aid in the prevention of premature skin ageing. Eco logical also make great natural sunscreens for the body.
The Natural Instinct Invisible Natural Sunscreen SPF30 offers great protection against UVA and UVB rays, and it's incredibly moisturising thanks to Grapeseed Oil, Shea Butter, Jojoba Oil, and Vitamin E- which makes it a beautiful option for dry skin.
Shea Butter is also a key ingredient in the WOTNOT Sunscreen SPF 30. In this formula, hydrating Shea is combined with soothing Aloe Vera so it feels really calming on the skin and will work to reduce inflammation if you are already sunburnt (lesson learned I hope!). This sunscreen is suitable for both adults and children, so you don't need to worry about carting too many different products to the beach with you.
If you are headed to the beach or pool, it's best to choose a water resistant formula. Try the Soléo Organics Sunscreen SPF 30+, which is water resistant for up to 3 hours and uses 22.3% non whitening natural Zinc Oxide with a combination of beautiful botanicals and antioxidants including Macadamia Oil and Green Tea to smooth and protect the skin.
