Organic Sunscreen: Green Protection for Your Skin

Organic sunscreen is rapidly becoming a popular choice to protect yourself from the sun while being ecologically conscious. With the weather turning warmer and vacation time around the corner, we are constantly being reminded of the damage that overexposure to the sun's rays bring. These damages not only mean an uncomfortable sunburn, but increased signs of aging and the potential for skin cancer, so let's take a closer look at how can you protect yourself while going a little greener.

Safe and Sustainable

Organic sunscreen offers the best of two worlds. First, if you read your labels carefully (looking for certified organic products) you have the comfort of knowing your product is safe for your skin. This type of sunscreens generally don't give people allergic reactions and can even be used by people with sensitive skin. Why? Because certified organic products are monitored in every step of production to make sure they remain chemical-free.

Two words of warning. First, the term "natural" does not mean certified organic. Even the word "organic" by itself (without a seal of certification) can be easily misleading. Natural and organic are both big “buzz” words in the industry right now that's used to hide ingredients under tiny print by clever advertising campaigns. That’s why you see so many skin experts reminding folks to know their products and read labels carefully.

Second, even sunscreens that are organic can give you some troubles if they include a natural ingredient to which you’re allergic. One excellent example is lavender of a common allergen that some organic products utilize. Allergies don’t just disappear because the product has been processed organically.

Going Green with Sunscreen

In terms of sustainability, certified organic sunscreen is a "green" product. You can protect your skin and help the planet in one purchase. Yes, you’ll spend a little more (creating organic products is very heavy on “person hours” to protect quality), but your skin is worth it.

What to Look for in an Organic Sunscreen

Sunscreen is meant to protect your skin, the largest organ in your body, from harm. You want a minimum SPF rating of 15 to really offer coverage. Secondly, check to see what buyers have to say (avoid sites that sell or partner with products - you want independent reviews).

Third, check your label. Look for herbs, plants, and minerals instead of the alphabet soup of terms you've never heard of before. One key ingredient for protection that's natural and safe is titanium oxide. Zinc oxide is another.

Advantages of Organic sunscreen

Some people find that chemical sunscreens really irritate their skin. And many of the non-organic options aren’t well suited for young children and babies, let alone pregnant and nursing women. Organic alternatives let you find a safe product with as few ingredients as possible (the less components in the mix – the less chance of negative reactions).

Where to Find It

Look to local suppliers who are accustomed to providing high quality organic items. Option include local food cooperative, whole food store, or Health Food outlet. If you can't find what you want there, let your fingers do the walking through the internet!


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