Slip, Slop, Slap
Summer in Australia = watermelon bellinis, salty days at the beach and lazy Sunday picnics in the park. But that’s not all kids, Australian summer can also mean serious skin damage.
In fact, our sunny land Down Under has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world. A compromised Ozone layer means Aussies are exposed to greater levels UV radiation, which can result in melanoma and non-melanocytic skin cancer as well as chronic sun damage. Yikes.
In fact, our sunny land Down Under has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world. A compromised Ozone layer means Aussies are exposed to greater levels UV radiation, which can result in melanoma and non-melanocytic skin cancer as well as chronic sun damage. Yikes. Sun protection is super important and now we’ve got your attention, let’s run through the sunscreen basics and natural products we recommend to save your skin this summer.
WHAT HAPPENS TO YOUR SKIN WHEN YOU GET SUNBURNT?
Sunburn damages the epidermis layer of skin. The UV rays cause the production of free radicals and oxidative stress resulting in the redness, swelling and burning sensation of sunburnt skin. UVB rays are responsible for sunburn while UVA rays cause premature ageing, sunspots and cancer. Your skin does have a natural amount of SPF to defend itself but being vigilant about using extra sun protection is an absolute must in the Australian summer.
NATURAL VS CHEMICAL SUNSCREENS
There are two types of sunscreen, natural (physical) and chemical. The active mineral ingredients of natural sunscreen work by sitting on top of the skin, deflecting damaging UV rays. Mineral ingredients include titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. These are commonly referred to as physical blockers are naturally broad spectrum, offering protection from both UVA and UVB rays.
Chemical sunscreen contains organic (carbon-based) compounds which work by absorbing the sun's rays which creates a chemical reaction and changes UV rays into heat. The heat is then released from the skin. Compounds include avobenzone, oxybenzone and octinoxate and are commonly known as chemical or organic absorbers.
In Australia, natural sunscreens over SPF 15+ must undergo the same rigorous testing and licensing by the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration) as chemical sunscreens. This means opting for a natural sunscreen will not be less effective than a chemical one in squashing the harsh effects of the sun and preventing sun damage.
OUR PICK OF NATURAL SUNSCREEN
To make your natural sun protection selection - try saying that ten times fast after a few watermelon bellinis! - as simple as possible, behold….our pick of 5 great sun protectors. While we don’t have our own sunscreen, the products we recommend get our natural beauty stamp of approval and all products are free from animal testing.
UV Natural sunscreen products use quality, naturally derived ingredients that are closest to the oils we lose from our skin as we age. This sunscreen is suitable for sensitive skin in addition to being hydrating and moisturising.
Soléo Organics All Natural Sunscreen
The only triple award-winning natural sunscreen in the world, Soléo is made using all natural and organic ingredients containing no chemical UV-absorbers, no synthetic preservatives and no titanium dioxide. Soléo sunscreen instead contains natural oils, botanical extracts and antioxidants.
Sun and Earth Natural Sun Zinc
Sun and Earth Natural Sun Zinc is a chemical-free, physical barrier on the skin and is water resistant, great for those who love hitting the surf. It has a light mocha colour tinted base and a chocolate scent from organic raw cacao. Handmade in Australia. Palm oil free.
Wotnot 30 SPF Natural Sunscreen
Wotnot Natural Sunscreen provides SPF 30 broad-spectrum protection with UVA and UVB protection. It’s GMO-free and also contains no sulphates, petrochemicals, parabens, artificial preservatives and fragrances. Zinc oxide is the active ingredient and it’s suitable for all skin types, adults and kids.
Now you’ve got your skin care sorted…..get out there and enjoy those gorgeous summer days!
