With sunny days making a comeback, it’s now more important than ever to wear sunscreen. Sunscreens can help protect skin from UV rays and the damage they cause. But did you know that some sunscreen ingredients can be pretty harmful, too? So, if you’re in the market for a new sunscreen, you’ll want to make sure it has the following four natural ingredients.
Zinc
Zinc is a top mineral to protect against the sun. And it’s frequently used in so-called “mineral” sunscreens, but don’t be fooled. These more natural sounding sunscreens are often loaded with chemicals. Zinc just boosts the formula.
But when used in a truly natural product, zinc is great. As dermatologist Rachel Nazarian, explains, it’s “best for sensitive skin because it doesn’t require the absorption that chemical sunscreens do; it works by simply reflecting ultraviolet light.”
Antioxidants
Sunscreen formulas made with antioxidants are a good choice, too. That’s because UVA ray exposure can lead to free radicals, and these antioxidants help fight against them. Antioxidants are also a great anti-aging component, too.
Plant oils
Look for natural oils such as olive, coconut, carrot seed oil, almond oil and red raspberry oil. These help to protect against UV damage, too, while also hydrating and nourishing the skin.
Anti-inflammatory ingredients
Exposure to the sun can lead to inflammation, so Nazarian recommends calming oils like coconut and jojoba oil, along with shea butter to sooth skin.
Badger Damascus Rose SPF 25 Face Sunscreen Lotion with Lavender and Chamomile
This sunscreen ticks all the right boxes. It contains zinc, a natural plant oil (sunflower seed oil) along with calming oils and extracts, including lavender, rose, chamomile and calendula. It even includes the ultimate beauty berry, sea buckthorn.