Sunshine: The Good vs.The Bad, Plus 3 Important Things To Know About Before Buying Sunscreen

Delicious sunshine. The coming of summer has many thinking they need to up their sunscreen game. The biggest fear, of course, has been manifested in avoidance of the the potential risk of skin cancer. And yet, studies have proven that liberal application of sunscreen cannot guarantee anyone’s protection from getting skin cancer and in fact, many sunscreens contain toxic and untested ingredients. The Environmental Working Group conducted a comprehensive study in which they analyzed 1,700 commonly used and widely marketed sun protection products in preparation to compile their annual Guide to Sunscreens for 2015. Their research uncovered that 80% had harmful ingredients or inadequate protection! But first, I thought it would be helpful to break down how sun exposure weighs In on your health. We get so many mixed messages. Sun is good for you. Sun is bad for you.

How Moderate Amounts of Sun Can Be Good For You

• Stimulates the skin to produce vitamin D, an essential nutrient that helps your body absorb calcium
• Certain skin conditions, such as psoriasis acne and fungal infections, may improve with sun exposure. In fact, UV light treatment in a doctor’s office is a standard medical prescription for psoriasis! 
• Natural sunlight (the key word being natural here – not a tanning bed), is a huge mood booster. Many people who suffer from depression use the noon-time sunshine to their benefit! At this peak time, the sun can deliver up to 100,000 lux UV rays of goodness. Sunlight deprivation can cause a condition called seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of depression. It is more common in winter months, but also with people who work long hours inside. SAD lamps for the win!
• White blood cells increase with sun exposure (your lymphocytes), playing a big role in defending the body against infections and illness
• Helps lower blood pressure, cholesterol and enhances the body’s ability to deliver oxygen to the tissues; much like the effects of exercise
• The American physician Dr. Zane Kime used sunbathing and nutrition to cure his patients. Even in terminal cases, Dr. Kime was able to completely reverse the metastasized cancer!

How Excessive Amounts of Unproteced Sun Exposure Can Be Bad For You

• Accelerates the aging process and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. So yea, avoid UV damage by NOT slathering baby oil all over your body and laying out in the sun. Brown spots aren’t pretty and can lead to the developement of melanoma.
• Thus, too much sun exposure can increase your chances of developing skin cancer, so moderation is key!

Natural Ways To Avoid Overexposure + 3 Things To Know Before Buying Suncreen

1. Don’t Forget About Your Pink Parts: Not kidding! And no, not those ones unles you are sunbathing in the nude. And since I’m sure we all know what our pink parts are, I don’t need to go any further with that. Your feet, your palms, eyes, lips, under your arms … all those hard to reach places. Use lip balms and body/face/makeup products and lotions with natural, mineral based potection built into them. Your body really doesn’t need the added parabens, polethelene and articficial fragrances. Coconut oil is a great option with a natural SPF of 4-6 built right in! Apply frequently and build up your exposure to the sun in short bursts, rather than extended periods of time. And stay hydrated! You are more likely to burn when dehydated than not. Wear protective clothing, especially if you’re out during peak hours (noon). Sunhats are a non-negotiable wearable around here. For us and the kids! Seek shade when you can.
2. Avoid The Marketing Hype: I always see a ton of sunscreens and sunblocks with a rating of SPF 50 or higher. An SPF rating applies to sunscreen’s ability to block UVB rays (the burning ones), not the UVA rays that can cause premature aging and skin cancer. Go for a broad spectrum, natural and mineral based sunscreen that protects both UVB and UVA.
3. Avoid The “Toxic 10″ and Go For These Ones Instead!
   

My Favourite, Natural Sunscreens
Skin Deep
Badger
Kiss My Face
Alba Botanica
Mustella
Nature’s Gate
Green Beaver
Purple Prairie
Try out any of these small business apothecary businesses on Etsy!
Raw Elements
Find more options here!

Please remember, moderation is key and always consult with your dermatologist if you have any concerns! Enjoy your summer lovelies.