Why You Should Pick a Sustainable Sunscreen
Photo: @enginakyurt
We have the sun's rays to thank for our existence. It drives ocean currents, weather systems and the plant photosynthesis. Yes, the entire “machinery” that we call our planet. Humans store solar energy in the form of vitamin D in our skin when we sunbathe or simply being in the sun. The sun's rays are also important for our well-being, vitamin D increases the body's ability to absorb calcium and contributes to our strong bones.
But sunscreen doesn’t always come with protecting benefits… About 4,000 to 6,000 tons of sunscreen ends up in the ocean yearly. This devastates coral reefs, affects the fertility of marine life, and contributes to coral bleaching, not to forget the negative health impact it can have on us humans (depending on which type you choose).
So what sunscreen ingredients should we avoid?
These are some of the ingredients you might want to avoid in your sunscreen since some of these might cause skin irritation yet harm our planet, especially coral and ocean life. We recommend to always check the labels before buying.
Oxybenzone
Octinoxate
4-methylbenzylidene
Homosalate
Octisalate
Octocrylene
Avobenzone
To help you on the way through the SPF (Solar Protection Formula) jungle, we are listing some of the brands we trust to stay protected under the sun.
Suntribe
Suntribe was started more than three years ago by Karl, Hampus and Julia – three friends who love nature just as much as they love pushing themselves to their limits when surfing, climbing or running. Their mission is to contribute to change. That is why they create worry-free natural sunscreens which are 100% free from synthetic chemicals and unnecessary ingredients like perfumes and preservatives. They never put anything in their cosmetics that sacrifices humans nor our planet’s health, such as using synthetic chemicals just because they are cheaper. That’s not the Suntribe way!
The Lekker Company
It all started back in 2014 when the founder, Dewi, began whisking up a few ingredients from her kitchen cabinet. Her struggle to find natural skincare made from simple and effective ingredients set her on the mission to shake up the cosmetic industry. And so, The lekker Company began. All the ingredients found in lekker products are carefully selected to create 100% vegan and cruelty-free formulations. The Lekker Company sunscreen is an ocean-friendly sun protector made from 100% natural ingredients. The creamy vegan formula with mineral UV filters provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. These filters rarely cause an allergic reaction and are suitable for sensitive skin.
The use of natural sunscreen is not only a lot better for your skin, but also for the planet and sea-life.
The Ohm Collection
Sunsafe from The Ohm Collection allows the body to retain its own natural mechanism and not suppress it and therefore keep it hydrated and not burned. Sunsafe is for all skin colours and for all ages. Ideal for outdoor people like gardeners, mountain climbers, surfers, sailors, you name it and of course for babies.
Sunsafe smells heavenly, is completely free of any E numbers, synthetic additives or fillers and works for several hours. This is a sunscreen that gives you a protection that also protects the turtles and the reef. Sun Safe is also the most hydrating sunscreen without nonsense.
SUNS CARE
SUNS CARE sunscreen is an exceptional choice due to its effective sun protection, commitment to sustainability, enjoyable application, and stylish appeal. Experience the ultimate in sun protection while making a positive impact on both your skin and the environment.
SUNS CARE have made it their mission to raise awareness of sun protection and turn an "I have to" into an "I want". You enjoy the sun and they provide you with the perfect protection!