Summer has arrived in all its sun-drenched glory, inviting you to take a hike, hit the beach, and enjoy a little deck time. No matter your skin type, it’s essential to keep a quality sunscreen on hand to ensure you can spend time outside without risk of sunburn or skin damage.
The typical drug-store sunscreen may doesn’t work on all skin types, and it may contain unwanted ingredients. If you have sensitive skin or like to keep your skin care routine natural, read on to learn about the benefits of white zinc oxide sunscreen and other natural sunscreen alternatives to protect you against sun damage from harmful UV rays.
Understanding Mineral vs Chemical Sunscreens
We’ve been told to use sunscreen all of our lives, the higher the SPF, the better the protection. But beyond this most of us don’t understand how our sunscreen works.
In the modern sunscreen market, there are two basic kinds of protection – the classic, chemical sunscreen and the more natural mineral sunscreens. Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing UV light and turning it into heat.
Mineral sunscreen, on the other hand, is a physical barrier, protecting your skin from UV light by blocking it. Many dermatologists feel this method may be safer and more effective, especially for sensitive skin.
Issues with Chemical Sunscreens
Last year, the FDA raised some concerns about the contents of many popular, chemical sunscreens stating that: “of the 16 currently marketed active ingredients, only 2 ingredients – zinc oxide and titanium dioxide – are generally recognized as safe and effective.”
Researchers have shown that the other 14 chemicals typically found in sunscreen are being absorbed into the skin and they don’t fully understand how these may affect the body.
Benefits of White Zinc Oxide Sunscreen
Not only is white zinc oxide sunscreen more natural, but it may also do a better job protecting your skin from UV rays. Unlike chemical sunscreens, mineral sunscreen begins working right away and does not need to soak into your skin for 20 minutes first.
If sensitive skin is an issue, you may get a rash or have a reaction to many sunscreens, but mineral and white zinc oxide sunscreen could protect without the risk of irritation.
Stock Up on Zinc Oxide Sunscreen This Summer
Don’t hit the beach or the hiking trails without stocking up on these natural, zinc-based mineral sunscreen products.
Naked Zinc Sunscreen SPF 30 from Naked Bee
Looking for natural protection from the sun this summer? Naked Zinc Sunscreen SPF 30 from Naked Bee is a moisturizing sunscreen that works to protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. This fragrance-free sunscreen includes organic aloe, apricot kernel oil, and sunflower seed oil to moisturize and soothe your skin.
Clear Zinc Sunscreen Cream SPF 30 from Badger
Using 98% organic ingredients for protection you can feel good about, Clear Zinc Sunscreen Cream SPF 30 from Badger goes on white, but rubs in clear for lightweight protection with no added fragrances. Perfect for the beach, swimming and light activity, this broad-spectrum formula is delivered in a gentle, antioxidant-rich sunflower oil base.
Kids Sports Spray Natural Sunscreen from Goddess Garden Organics
Looking for a natural sunscreen spray that keeps your kids protected? Kids Sports Spray Natural Sunscreen from Goddess Garden Organics is a convenient and easy-to-apply spray-on formula that keeps your kids safe using natural zinc oxide, sunflower oil, and aloe vera.
Do you use white zinc oxide sunscreen? What is your go-to skin care to keep your sensitive skin safe in the summer? Share your favorite products with us in the comments below.
About Theresa Groskopp, CN
Certified Nutritionist in Appleton, Wisconsin, Founder of Natural Healthy Concepts. Natural health and nutrition advocate. Enjoys gardening, biking, fitness, boating, animals (especially cats), and cooking.
Theresa Groskopp
