**Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreens: Unveiling the Best Protection for Suncare**
The sun is our friend and it is fundamental to the climate and habitability of our planet and essential to life on earth. It provides warmth, daylight and sends all kinds of positive signals to our bodies. Ever wondered why we feel happier when the sun is shining? The sun helps our body create serotonin, the neurotransmitter that helps to improve our mood. The sun also helps to regulate the production of melatonin, support our circadian rhythm and improve sleep cycles. Sun light also helps synthesize vitamin D, which promotes calcium absorption which is essential for strong muscles and bones and supporting our immune system among a number of other health benefits.But like everything you can have too much of a good thing and we do need to protect our skin from the risk of skin cancer and prevent long term damage such as wrinkles, premature aging and loss of skin elasticity. Enter the need for sunscreen!
Let's talk SPF first.
SPF or Sun protection factor indicates how much longer your skin is protected relative to if you weren’t wearing any sunscreen. For example, if you were to use an SPF 30 product properly, it’d take you 30 times longer to burn compared to without sunscreen.
So what SPF should you use? Experts recommend using SPF 15 or higher daily but if you’re planning to spend a lot of time outdoors, wear SPF 30 or higher. However, most dermatologists will confirm that wearing any SPF sunscreen is better than not.
Did you know that SPF 15 actually provides the biggest jump in protection compared to no sunscreen. While not wearing sunscreen offers 0% protection (obviously), SPF 15 offers approximately 93% protection when used properly. SPF 30 jumps to about 97% protection with proper use. After that, the protection you get from using a higher SPF is negligible and no sunscreen can offer 100% protection, but even SPF 15 gets you close! The difference between a SPF 40 is you block out 97.5% of UVB radiation and SPF 50 blocks 98% so as you can see the higher SPF is negligible.
Don't forget to also, look for “broad spectrum” on sunscreen labels. This addition on the label refers to the types of UV rays the sunscreen protects against: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVC rays are the shortest in length and are absorbed in the atmosphere before they reach the earth’s surface. UVB rays are longer. Some but not all UVB rays are absorbed into the atmosphere before reaching the earth’s surface. UVA rays are the longest and compose most of the UV rays to which you’re exposed. Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays for more thorough coverage.
The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher for any extended outdoor activity.
If you need a higher level of protection as you are at risk of skin cancer etc then more physical barriers are recommended so think covering up, hat, sunglasses etc.
In the quest for effective sun protection, the debate between mineral and chemical sunscreens is ever-present. It's not just about preventing sunburns; it's about safeguarding our skin's health. Here, we'll explore the distinctions between these two sunscreen types and shine a light on the unparalleled benefits of the doTERRA suncare range.
**Mineral Sunscreens: Nature's Shield**
Mineral sunscreens, often referred to as physical sunscreens, contain active mineral ingredients like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. Rather than absorbing into the skin, they sit on the surface, reflecting and scattering harmful UV rays away from the skin. This immediate barrier offers a natural, sensitive skin-friendly option, minimizing the risk of irritation.
**Chemical Sunscreens: Invisible Protection**
Chemical sunscreens absorb into the skin and then absorb UV rays, convert them into heat, and release them from the body. They typically contain ingredients such as avobenzone and octinoxate. This type of sunscreen is often preferred for its lightweight feel and sheer finish, making it a popular choice for everyday wear.
**doTERRA Suncare: The Best of Both Worlds**
doTERRA, renowned for its commitment to purity and effectiveness, presents a suncare range that harnesses the benefits of mineral sunscreens while addressing the common concerns associated with chemical sunscreens. Formulated with the highest quality, naturally sourced zinc oxide, doTERRA's sunscreen provides broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Previously, mineral sunscreen could feel thick and greasy and leave a white residue but not with this range.
The benefits don't stop at protection. Infused with CPTG Certified Pure Tested Grade™ essential oils, doTERRA's suncare products nourish and hydrate the skin, transforming sun protection into a luxurious skincare experience. From the restorative properties of Helichrysum essential oil to the soothing touch of lavender, each product is designed to support skin health and wellness.
**Why Choose doTERRA Suncare?**
1. **Broad Spectrum Protection:** Mineral-based formulas offer effective defense against the full range of UVA and UVB rays.
2. **Sensitive Skin Friendly:** Free from harsh chemicals, ideal for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
3. **Eco-Conscious:** Safe for marine life, supporting environmental stewardship including Reef Safe as UV-blocking chemicals have been found to cause coral bleaching which puts the stunning coral under severe stress and can lead to disease and death
4. **Enhanced Skin Health:** Infused with essential oils such as Frankincense, Helichrysum and Carrot Seed, providing skin with hydration and nourishment.
5. **Non-nano zinc oxide** so won’t be absorbed into the blood stream but just confer the topical benefits of zinc to our skin
6. **Vegan & cruelty free** which means no animal products lessening allergies and not experimented on animals.
There are a number of ingredients found throughout the dōTERRA sun product line that provide nourishment in addition to the essential oils.
• Tocopherol, more commonly known as vitamin E, is extremely nourishing. It’s present in EVERY dōTERRA sun product!
• Raspberry Seed Oil, Avocado Oil, and Jojoba Esters are nourishing ingredients found in the SPF lotion and spray.
• Shea Butter and Coco Butter are nourishing ingredients found in the SPF stick.
• Aloe Vera, Red Algae extract, and Hyaluronic Acid are nourishing ingredients found in the After Sun Mist. Hyaluronic Acid is particularly nourishing because of the deep hydration it delivers.
Here are a few more ingredients that deliver soothing benefits.
• Bisabolol can reduce redness and irritation. It’s generally calming to the skin. It’s present in all SPF products as a preventative measure.
• Turmeric Extract has excellent anti-inflammatory properties when applied topically. It can be found in the SPF lotion and spray!
• Aloe Vera is a no-brainer for skin-soothing. We’ve all slathered aloe vera all over our bodies before, right? That’s why aloe vera is the base for our After Sun product. It’s also found in the SPF lotion and spray.
• Also in the After Sun product are hero ingredients of Red Algae extract and Arnica Montana flower. Red algae is rich in protein,antioxidants, and vitamins, all of which are essential to the skin. Arnica Montana flower is a natural anti-inflammatory ingredient, which is especially important when your skin is weathered and tired.
doTERRA's suncare range offers a superior, health-conscious alternative to traditional sunscreens, marrying the best of mineral sunscreens' benefits with the brand's holistic approach to wellness. Embrace the sun with confidence, knowing your skin is shielded and nurtured by the power of nature, courtesy of doTERRA.
If you would like to have a chat about which doTerra sun product is right for you drop me a message and we can find out what is best for you and if you are wanting to get more than one option
drop me a message to get a discount.