The sun is a powerful force in our lives, providing us with both warmth and light. Unfortunately, it can also be dangerous; overexposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation can cause skin cancer, premature aging and other health problems. As such, using sunscreen is one way to protect ourselves from the potentially harmful effects of UV rays. But while sunscreen may help keep us safe from the sun’s more damaging qualities, traditional formulas often have negative environmental impacts that make them a less than ideal choice for individuals who care about protecting and preserving the environment. Fortunately, there are now environmentally friendly sunscreen options available which allow you to enjoy some protection from the sun without harming nature in the process.
Thinksport Safe Sunscreen
Thinksport Safe Sunscreen is an eco-friendly sunscreen that provides protection from the sun's harmful UV rays. The sunscreen features a unique combination of natural and organic ingredients, including zinc oxide as its active ingredient, to provide broad-spectrum SPF 50+ coverage. It is free of nano particles, parabens, fragrances and other potentially dangerous chemicals that are commonly found in traditional sunscreens. Thinksport Safe Sunscreen has been awarded the highest rating by the Environmental Working Group for its safety profile and environmental friendliness.
Pros:
- Contains natural and organic ingredients with no toxic chemicals or nanoparticles
- Broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection with SPF 50+ coverage
- Reef safe formula helps protect marine life from damage caused by hazardous chemicals found in many common sunscreens
- Water resistant up to 80 minutes
Cons:
- Expensive compared to traditional chemical based sunscreens
Badger Balm Natural Mineral Sunscreen
Badger Balm Natural Mineral Sunscreen is a mineral-based sunscreen formulated with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to provide broad spectrum UV protection without the use of harsh chemicals or synthetic fragrances. It is certified organic, Cruelty-Free, and contains non-nano particles which are safe for coral reefs and other marine life.
Pros
- It contains only natural ingredients that are gentle on the skin.
- The sunscreen does not contain any toxic chemicals such as oxybenzone which can be harmful for coral reef ecosystems when washed off in water.
- Certified cruelty free and highly biodegradable so it will not harm wildlife or pollute waterways when used properly.
- Offers broad spectrum UVA/UVB sun protection from natural minerals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide instead of chemical filters found in most mainstream sunscreens which may cause irritation to sensitive skin types.
Cons
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May leave a white residue on the skin due to its thicker formula compared to conventional chemical based products, making it less convenient to use than other options available on the market today.
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Contains coconut oil which can clog pores if used excessively causing breakouts or acne flare ups (this should be taken into consideration depending on individual’s skin type).
Raw Elements Eco Formulated Natural Sunscreen
Raw Elements is a natural sunscreen formulated with eco-friendly ingredients that provides superior protection against the sun’s harmful rays. It is made without toxic chemicals, synthetic fragrances, or animal testing and contains only natural, organic ingredients like beeswax and non-nano zinc oxide to protect your skin from UVA/UVB rays. This product was developed for those seeking an effective yet safer alternative to chemical sunscreens.
Pros:
- Non-toxic formula free from carcinogens, parabens and other dangerous chemicals found in conventional sunscreens
- Contains no artificial fragrances or dyes so it doesn't irritate sensitive skin types
- Made with environmentally friendly ingredients including sustainably sourced beeswax and non-nano zinc oxide which are reef safe
- Cruelty free – not tested on animals
Cons:
- Price – since this is a natural sunscreen containing high quality ingredients it may be more expensive compared to other brands of conventional sunscreen on the market
All Good Sport SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion
All Good Sport SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion is a natural and organic sunscreen that provides broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. The lotion is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it perfect for outdoor activities like swimming and surfing. Its light formula absorbs quickly without any greasy residue, leaving skin feeling hydrated and soft. Plus, the lotion has been reef safe certified so it won't harm coral reefs or other aquatic environments.
When considering its eco friendly features, here are some pros and cons of All Good Sport SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion:
Pros:
- Formulated with only natural ingredients such as coconut oil, beeswax and shea butter which are biodegradable
- Reef Safe Certified - does not contain oxybenzone or octinoxate which can be harmful to coral reefs
- Water resistant up to 80 minutes so you don’t have to reapply as often
Cons:
- Not all of the packaging materials used in this product are recyclable
Green People Neutral Scent Free Sun Lotion
The Green People Neutral Scent Free Sun Lotion is a natural and eco-friendly sun lotion that offers broad-spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB rays, allowing you to confidently enjoy your time in the sun without worrying about damaging your skin or the environment.
This lotion has been specially formulated with some of nature’s finest ingredients, including shea butter, aloe vera juice, lavender oil, rosehip seed oil and avocado oil. It has a light consistency which makes it easily absorbed into the skin for maximum hydration and protection from environmental aggressors like cold wind and harsh weather conditions. Its non-greasy formula also means that it won’t leave an unpleasant residue on your clothes or other surfaces after application.
Pros:
- Contains natural ingredients such as shea butter, aloe vera juice and rosehip seed oil to nourish skin while providing broad-spectrum protection against UVA/UVB rays. * Non-greasy formulation absorbs quickly into skin without leaving behind any residue on clothing or other surfaces after application.
- Cruelty free - no animal testing was used in production of this product so you can use it guilt free!
Cons:
- The price point may be too high for those who are trying to find a budget friendly alternative when buying sunscreen products.
Why Choose an Environmentally Friendly Sunscreen?
When considering different types of sunscreen products available on store shelves today, most people don't think about what's actually inside them or where those ingredients come from. Many conventional brands contain microplastics which end up being washed off into our waterways when used in water activities like swimming and surfing - this pollution has been linked to serious damage to marine life as well as coral reefs worldwide due to their ability for absorbing toxins within their bodies over time. Additionally many formulas contain synthetic fragrances or parabens – chemicals known for disrupting hormones that could lead to potential health risks down the line if absorbed through your skin when exposed too frequently over time.. Furthermore these formulations generally require larger amounts of plastic packaging versus natural alternatives that come housed in recycled paper containers which allows them ultimately break down faster once discarded instead of sitting around landfills contributing additional waste material build-up year after year—an issue that we all need consider addressing sooner rather than later if we want Earth remain a viable place live on going forward into future generations..
In contrast eco-friendly versions do not contain any synthetic materials whatsoever so they won't cause nearly same amount destruction because only natural ingredients used—many even biodegradable! This means no harsh chemicals polluting your body internal systems either since none present during application when compared against regular ones found at drug stores countertops meaning you can rest easier knowing maximum safety protection provided both externally externally as long term effects upon internal organismic balance maintained thanks product conscientious design engineering..
Another major benefit purchasing kind comes “reef safe” designation granted various brands These means product free common UV filters believed contribute bleaching oceans delicate coral reef ecosystems jeopardizing animal species rely habitats survive further exacerbating climate change crisis already underway planet today making critical buying decision anyone wanting go extra mile preserve world around them while still enjoying outdoor activities summer months ahead....
What Does Eco-Friendly Sun Protection Look Like?
So how exactly does one go about finding suitable eco-friendly option? Well first off look certified organic seal label before anything else indicating product made completely plant based extracts alongside oils sourced sustainably harvested sources such coconut jojoba beeswax among others allowing complete peace mind know nothing artificial added mix plus minimal packaging employed further ensuring highest degree safety achieved possible.
Additionally chances good brand will also include zinc oxide ingredient list its formula prevents blocking pores hindering sweat release thus promoting healthier air circulation throughout epidermis layer leading fewer irritation issues arising result Thanks its naturally reflective properties adds extra element defense blocking out percentage UVA/B rays otherwise penetrate unprotected skin surface directly reducing risk developing diseases mentioned earlier including dreaded melanoma carcinomas nonmelanoma forms other afflictions caused extreme exposure sunlight external environment hazards presented daily basis especially during summertime spent outdoors.
Finally important note below SPF 50 ratings should avoided altogether reason why lies fact high levels necessary achieve whatever number printed bottle cannot reached effectively enough compromising overall performance quality results desired Instead opt something lower range between 30 40 gives enough shield without sacrificing effectiveness.
Conclusion
In conclusion having an environmentally friendly sunscreen is beneficial because it provides effective protection from damaging UV rays without causing harm to our planet's ecosystems by containing pollutants like microplastics or harsh chemicals like parabens commonly seen traditional varieties found supermarkets pharmacies alike Plus many organic versions come packaged sustainable recyclable materials offering customers piece mind regarding disposal procedures well significantly smaller carbon footprint left behind overall All considered taking better skincare steps doesn't mean just individual level responsible living starts community putting forth wise shopping decisions ensuring best practices implemented each item brought home pantry cabinet beyond.
