It is common knowledge that the sun can be hard on your skin, leading to premature aging, cancer and more. But, did you know that the ingredients in commercial sunscreen can actually encourage cancer growth? In addition, completely blocking out the sun isn’t healthy either, as we need some exposure to the best source of vitamin D we have. Opt for natural sunblock alternatives in order to reap the benefits of sunlight, while providing adequate protection for your skin.
Eat the right foods.
Consume foods that are rich in healthy fats and antioxidants. They help protect your skin from damage, including UV damage. These foods include dark, colorful fruits and vegetables that contain carotenoids and other powerful antioxidants. Also eat nuts, seeds, coconut oil, avocados, sea vegetables and microalgae for the best omega fatty acids and even some healthy saturated fats. Carotenoids give your skin a healthy bronze glow even without sunlight while making sure you burn less often.
Wear proper clothing.
Adequate clothing is the best sunblock. Clothes absorb or reflect sunlight and keep your skin safe. Opt for white clothing to reflect more light and keep you cooler in the summer heat.
Look for effective oils.
Some oils make for good natural sunblock resources. They offer some resistance to the sun while still allowing natural vitamin D production. These oils include:
- Carrot Seed Oil: This oil boasts 38-40 SPF and has some good carotenoid antioxidant action going on too.
- Red Raspberry Seed Oil: This oil averages between 28-50 SPF and blocks the troublesome UVB rays.
- Wheat Germ Oil: THis oil is naturally moisturizing while touting an SPF of 20.
- Sesame Oil: blocks 30% of sunlight, letting you stay in the sun longer without burning. Apply it every hour or two if you plan to be out longer.
- Coconut Oil: This oil blocks about 20% of the sun’s rays. It also moisturizes skin, lessens inflammation, and smooths out blemishes while it limits solar damage.
Try aloe vera.
Many use aloe vera after a sunburn to soothe their hot, burned skin. However, aloe vera works wonders beforehand too by blocking out about 20% of sunlight. Remember to reapply every hour or so to stay safe.
Opt for sunscreen in a pill: Astaxanthin.
Astaxanthin is an antioxidant and carotenoid that is more powerful than vitamin C, vitamin E or CoQ10. It protects our skin from solar injuries and even helps prevent DNA from being damaged by ultraviolet rays. This “sunscreen in a pill” also protects the heart, brain, joints and eyes.
