1. Guard against sun damage
Despite an increase in the amount of sunscreen we are using, the skin cancer rate continues to increase. This is not surprising as we are battling with greater pollution, ozone depletion and longer lifespans. One theory (although unproven so far) is that damage is enhanced by exposure to some of the ingredients used in sunscreens. In particular, you should avoid sunscreens containing:
- Parabens
- PABAs (para-aminobenzoic acid)
- Padimate-O
- Parsol 1789
- Benzophenone
- Homosalate
- Octyl-methoxycinnamate
2. Choose your sunscreen carefully
A report by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) in the US revealed that 84% of 831 sunscreens offered inadequate protection from the sun or contained ingredients with significant safety concerns. Only 16% were considered safe and effective for your skin. See the list of ingredients to avoid, above!
3. Avoid titanium dioxide>/b>
A common ingredient in sunscreens, titanium dioxide has been linked to environmental damage during the mining process and manufacture. So, whilst it may not pose a problem for your skin, it certainly does pose a problem for the environment.
<b>4. Stay out of the sun>/b>
The best option is to wear a hat with a brim and stay out of the sun altogether, especially in the middle of the day. A sun tan is sooooo 1990 dahling!
<b>5. Watch out for sun sensitive ingredients
Some skin care ingredients can actually make your skin more sensitive to the sun's effects. For instance, any product containing retinol or vitamin A should be avoided if you're going out in the sun.
6. Choose a biodegradable 'block' sunscreen
Many sunscreens contain ingredients that are not biodegradable and wash off your skin and into the water, either while swimming or when you shower. Zinc oxide is the best physical-barrier sunscreen as it has no harmful side-effects, no extra ingredients and is a mineral, so is not absorbed into the bloodstream. Traditionally only available in a thick white paste, it's now available in transparent varieties and even as a tinted moisturiser. No excuses then!
7. Avoid using a high SPF if you don't need it
Remember you don't need a moisturiser with added SPF overnight. Check that skin care products you are using don't contain extra unnecessary ingredients. This will reduce your exposure to chemicals.
8. Aloe soothes sunburn
Aloe vera gel is soothing and calming - the perfect antidote to skin that has been overexposed to the sun. Look for natural skin care products with a high aloe vera content, or better still, 100% aloe vera gel.
9. Fake tan - all in the preparation
Before applying fake tan, exfoliate and moisturise so that the coverage is even and streak-free. Try this fab natural skin care product - bod's delicious Lime, Mandarin and Nutmeg Rice Scrub, or, for a home-made alternative, mix 2 cups of sea salt with 4 cups of almond oil and a couple of drops of your favourite essential oil.
10. Say no to tanning pills
Tanning pills contain the pigment canthaxanthin, which is highly dangerous. Although approved for use in food in small amounts, in tanning pills it is ingested in high doses and changes not only the skin colour, but the colour of the internal organs. It has been linked to hepatitis. All together now - ew!
So there you have it. The top ten tips for natural skin care in the sun."
Thanks Kate!
H.G.
xx
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Ikigai is all about looking great and feeling fantastic. We believe that there is simply no need to sacrifice quality or luxury when you choose natural and organic skin care and beauty products.
The powerful beneficial properties of natural herbs and plant essences can be harnessed to enhance our health and beauty, in harmony with the natural world and without damaging our environment.
Join us online at Ikigai to see what we mean.
Kate.
xx
