Why You Should Opt for Natural Sunscreens This Summer

If you have plans to visit Sunset Beach , stroll around Ralph B. Clark Park , or sunbathe on your patio, sunscreen is a must. But with so many sunscreen options to choose from, how do you know which one is the best choice?

You may notice that some sunscreens are chemical, while others are natural. Similar to how we should fuel our bodies with natural ingredients, we should lather our skin with natural sunbathing lotions. Here are three reasons why you should ditch the chemicals and buy all-natural sunscreen this summer.

It’s good for sensitive skin.

According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology , synthetic chemicals (such as oxybenzone, benzophenone, cinnamate, and dibenzoylmethane) can irritate your skin and produce photo-allergic reactions. On the other hand, natural sunscreen, also known as physical sunscreen, contains titanium dioxide or zinc oxide to block the sun. Because of these mineral ingredients, natural sunscreens tend to be less irritating on the skin.

It protects against both UVB and UVA rays.

There are two basic forms of ultraviolet rays: UVB and UVA . UVB rays cause sunburns while UVA rays penetrate deep into your skin and cause skin cancer, aging, and wrinkles. You would think that every sunscreen protects against both types of UV rays, but sadly, that isn’t the case. Chemical sunscreen absorbs rays into your skin, protecting you from UVB only, while physical sunscreen reflects damaging rays from your skin, protecting you from UVB and UVA. If you care about aging, preventing skin cancer, and avoiding sunburns, physical sunscreen is the way to go.

It’s environmentally friendly.

Mineral-based, natural sunscreens don’t seem to harm the environment. This is because they are free of ingredients that damage our reefs and hurt our marine life. If you have trouble knowing which sunscreen is safe, here is a list of some of our favorites . All are natural, toxin-free, and safe alternatives to chemical sunscreens.

Do your skin a favor this summer and opt for a natural sunscreen. Physical sunscreens are good for sensitive skin, protect you against both types of UV rays, and are friendly to the environment. What more could you want?