The Sunshine Paradox: Unveiling the Secrets of Sunscreen 

As the summer sun allows us to bask in its golden glory, protecting our skin from the dangers of being sun-kissed becomes a top priority. While shielding ourselves from the sun’s harmful rays is important, we must also remember that sunscreen, our reliable companion at this time of the year can also cause damage when not applied with caution. How do we make full use of sunscreen while appreciating the sun and why is sunscreen controversial? And also most importantly what is good to know about Suncreams? Find out more in The Sunshine Paradox: Unveiling the Secrets of Sunscreen

All Images Samantha Inman @rememberingtobreathe

Smart Screen SPF 50 Moisturiser Elemental Herbalology This lightweight SPF 50+ moisturiser is enriched with highly protective ingredients to shield skin from sun damage, blue light and pollution. Vegan, silicone-free and fragrance-free formulation is high in Provitamin B5 and Vitamin E to help soothe and hydrate for flawless and protected skin all year round.

The one SPF 50 by Allies of Skin. Invisible Sunscreen GelSecond-skin sunscreen for the lightest invisible protection. 25% Second-Skin Aloe Membrane Complex, Vitamin C, Green Tea, Carrot Seed, Red Raspberry Seed Oil & Liquorice Root, and 5 Antioxidants & Skin Conditioners. Broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection, 80-minute water & sweat resistance, conditions skin, provides antioxidant protection & blurs the appearance of pores.

It may be surprising to know that the use of natural materials for sun protection by ancient civilisations is reflected in the history of sunscreen. Picture the Egyptians harnessing plant extracts and the Greeks embracing olive oil’s golden touch sun interaction. Then, Swiss chemist Franz Greiter, a sunburned traveller on Mount Piz Buin, (Silvretta range of the Alps) birthed the first commercial sunscreen.

This sunscreen significantly impacted how we understand and choose sun protection. Unlike the ancient Egyptians and Greeks, we can easily measure and understand sunscreen efficiency thanks to Greiter’s invention of the idea of the Sun Protection Factor (SPF). Now our sunscreen can adequately shield our skin from both UVA (ultraviolet A) and UVB (ultraviolet B) rays, reducing the risk of premature aging, wrinkles, sunburn, and skin cancer, especially melanoma. Yet we need to apply sunscreen with precaution. 

Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50+/ PA+++ by Corsrx. Formulated with Aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract, the daily soothing sunblock is so lightweight that is feels like a moisturizer, and it does not leave any white cast. Designed to be travel friendly, you can easily carry COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream anywhere and layer on sun protection anytime. Rio Radiance™ SPF 50 Body Spray. by Sol De Janeiro. A natural Rio Radiance™ sheen. This SPF 50 body spray hydrates and refreshes with coconut water for a cooling sensation and looks beautiful on all skin tones. Vitamin C-rich pitanga extract and niacinamide visibly brighten and help even skin tone while pongamia seed extract delivers powerful antioxidants. Bask in our beachy & nostalgic Cheirosa 87 scent with notes of solar tuberose and leite de coco. Vitamin E Vitalizing Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++ by Corsrx. A sunscreen with powerful antioxidants Vitamin E and C protects the skin from UV damage, while Hyaluronic Acid and Panthenol keep it healthy and moisturized.

There are a lot of controversies surrounding sunscreen and suncare, most are health and environmental concerns. Chemical components oxybenzone and octinoxate, are controversial in terms safety. Not only do these chemicals trigger allergies but have shown that they disrupt hormones. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, are widely regarded as safer, but they can leave a white cast. Still, some sunscreens do not provide appropriate protection, resulting in skin damage and cancer risk.  

Garnier Ambre Solaire Super UV Niacinamide anti-imperfections daily fluid SPF50+ is developed for the face area and is formulated with 3,5% [Niacinamide + Salicylic Acid + Zinc PCA]. This formula helps fight against imperfections with a 12 hour mattifying effect. Reduces the appearance of imperfections and pores look minimised. Garnier Suncare research is recognised by the British Skin Foundation.  Garnier Ambre Solaire Ideal Bronze SPF50 Milk-in-Spray is a high sun protection to help protect your skin from sun damage and photo-aging signs while enhancing your tan. The formula is powered by Vitamin E and Beta-Carotene. A luxurious yet lightweight milk to deeply hydrate and soften your skin, leaving it silky. Garnier Suncare research is recognised by the British Skin Foundation. Garnier Ambre Solaire Garnier Ambre Solaire, After Sun Spray experts in sun protection since 1935. Our broad spectrum, photostable products contain UVB and UVA filters to help protect against immediate and long-term sun induced damage and premature skin ageing. Garnier suncare research is recognised by the British Skin Foundation. Garnier Ambre Solaire Super UV Vitamin C Anti-Dark Spots Fluid SPF 50 is developed for the face area and is formulated with 3% [Glycerin + Vitamin E + Vitamin Cg], This formula helps prevent uneven skin tone and boosts skin glow. Reduces the appearance of dark spots, for more radiant skin and skin tone that looks more even. Garnier Suncare research is recognised by the British Skin Foundation. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Fluid SPF50 with Hyaluronic Acid & + Pro-Vitamin B5 &+ 2% Niacinamide, delivering protection against UV & all day hydration to boost the skins vital hydration and maintain the skins dynamic barrier. This lightweight, fast-absorbing, invisible finish SPF 50 gives clinically proven all day hydration and provides high protection against UVA, UVB and long-UVA rays.

Before you put your sunscreen down, there are many sunscreens that provide adequate care to the skin. For example, the Green People Scent-Free Sun Cream SPF30 is effective for those with sensitive skin and flare ups. This sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB radiation and also helps avoid discomfort caused by certain scents. The lightweight cream is absorbs fast and is non-greasy, leaving a matte finish suitable for everyday. This sun lotion is suitable for a range of skin types and kids. It keeps your skin s healthy in the sun without any harsh chemicals. 

Scent Free Sun Cream SPF30 by Green People This trusted, high-factor sunscreen for sensitive skin protects against 97% of UVB rays.A top-pick for those prone to prickly heat it’s easily absorbed, without whiteness or a greasy skin feel. Naturally unscented and enriched with over 60% organic Aloe Vera, it gently soothes sensitive skin whilst it protects. If you are prone to prickly heat then its skin-friendly ingredients allow the skin to breathe so you can relax and enjoy the sun without discomfort.  Brimming with antioxidant-rich actives from sun-shielding Edelweiss and non-nano, non-toxic UV filters, this SPF is your broad-spectrum bestie. It also contains Berry Wax to provide a splash of water repellence. With absolutely no Oxybenzone or Octinoxate, our reef-safe SPF is perfectly safe to use in the sea, as well as for wild swimming in rivers. For every bottle purchased, we donate to the Marine Conservation Society, a UK charity that works to safeguard our seas and shorelines. Mantle SPF advanced Sun-Protective MoisturiserThe Daily Shield combines results-driven skincare ingredients with advanced protection from sun damage. The non-comedogenic formula quickly sinks into the skin and never leaves a greasy film or a white-cast, resulting in a luminous, nourished, smooth complexion. Apply it as the last step of your routine, or on its own as your daily protective moisturiser. Previously known as The SPF. Scent Free Mineral Sun Cream SPF30 50ml mineral sun protection your skin care must have? This broad-spectrum sunscreen is the SPF for you. Dermatologically tested and certified organic by COSMOS SA, this 100% mineral, non-nano Zinc Oxide sun cream reflects and protects for high-factor defence against UVA and UVB rays. Naturally non-greasy, it’s the perfect sunscreen for oily and spot-prone skin. Anti-inflammatory and mattifying Zinc Oxide works in synergy with pore-purifying Jojoba and soothing Aloe Vera for calm, balanced and protected skin. Suitable for all skin types, this mineral sun cream is fragrance free, eczema-friendly and clinically proven to be kind to sensitive skin. There’s no drying alcohol here. Bisabolol from Chamomile calms and antioxidant Sequoia Leaf Cell Extract retains moisture for a smooth, firm complexion. Green People SPF15 with Insect Repellent, this dual-action certified organic sun cream with natural insect repellent. Designed to ‘do it all’, SPF15 shields against sun damage while DEET-free Citrepel®75 provides PMD-powered protection against mosquitoes, midges and more for up to 4 hours. Moisturising After Sun with Insect Repellent 100ml by Green People Made with moisture-locking plant extracts that gently cool and calm after sun exposure, this organic Aloe Vera after sun is perfect for taking the heat off your skin. Best applied after sun down, skin feels soft, soothed and protected from peeling. There’s no DEET or skin-drying alcohol here. Instead, this after sun’s anti-mosquito action deters biting insects with Citrepel®75. Derived from Java Citronella, this clinically tested active protects against mosquitoes, midges, ticks and more for up to 4 hours and that’s with just one application. The light natural after sun lotion gives a gentle cooling sensation on your skin and its light aroma of Lavender and Peppermint is both refreshing and soothing. Can be used on the face and the body and by anyone aged 6 months+.

Sunscreen shows the need for professionals involvement in skincare and continuous research to provide effective protection from the sun while minimising harm to the environment and to our health. As they say when the suns out lets play. Let us embrace the beauty that has been provided to us from the suncare labs while basking in the glow nature has provided through her sun.

 If you enjoyed reading The Sunshine Paradox: Unveiling the Secrets of Sunscreen, why not read There is Shimmer and Shine but we Love it Oil-Free.

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