Choosing the right sunscreen becomes one of the main skincare concerns as summer begins. However, sun protection deserves attention throughout the year. After all, the sun shines all year round. What changes is its intensity and the balance between UVA and UVB radiation. UVA radiation remains at a similar level throughout the year, while UVB radiation reaching the ground is at its highest around the peak of summer. In winter, the skin is often weakened and chapped by frost and wind, making it more susceptible to sun damage.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN UVA AND UVB RADIATION?
Sunlight consists of UVA, UVB and UVC radiation. UVC radiation is absorbed by the atmosphere and does not reach the Earth's surface, so there is no need to worry about it :). The effects of UVB radiation can be seen almost immediately. It causes redness and irritation of the skin and is responsible for sunburn when the skin is left unprotected. UVA radiation, by contrast, acts much more subtly and over the longer term – it penetrates deeper layers of the skin, where it causes damage and contributes to premature skin ageing. Both types of radiation increase the risk of skin cancer.
Physical vs. chemical filters
At the most basic level, sunscreens can be divided into two types according to the filter they use: those with chemical filters and those with physical, or mineral, filters. Natural sunscreens do not generally use chemical filters. Chemical filters commonly contain ingredients such as oxybenzone or benzophenone, which provide sun protection but are also absorbed into the skin and may cause allergies and irritation. They are also considered potential endocrine disruptors. These substances are often accompanied by a chemical cocktail of other ingredients, such as octinoxate, homosalate and others.
Mineral-based sunscreens are considered a healthier alternative. They are not absorbed into the skin, and the physical filter used is gentle on the skin. These products use non-nano titanium dioxide or zinc oxide as their filter. In non-nano form, particles of these two substances are not absorbed into the skin but remain on its surface. However, a mineral filter alone does not guarantee that a product is 100% natural. Always check the ingredients and give preference to certified natural cosmetics.
Which SPF should you choose?
Choosing a sunscreen with the highest possible SPF has been a trend in recent years. Advertising has tried to convince us that the higher the SPF (Sun Protection Factor), the greater the protection from the sun. As a result of this marketing, sunscreens with an SPF as high as 100 can now be found in pharmacies and chemists. And, of course, the higher the SPF, the higher the price. But what about the extra protection? SPF 30 blocks around 97.4 % of UVB radiation, while SPF 50 blocks 98 %. In other words, they provide almost the same level of sun protection. Yet that 0.6% difference in protection can cost considerably more. Manufacturers of natural sunscreens are aware of this small difference in effectiveness, which is why natural mineral sunscreens generally have an SPF of between 15-30, providing sufficient protection.
So how do you choose the right sunscreen and find your way around natural options? The online shops (Gratia Natura and Pravé Bio) offer sunscreens from Badger, Odylique and The OHM Collection. Each brand has its own particular strengths and has been carefully selected to offer options for everyone, from kids and adults to those with particularly sensitive skin.
Sunscreens from Badger, Odylique and The OHM Collection
Badger is well known in the world of non-toxic cosmetics, and with good reason. The brand follows strict standards for both its ingredients and the way they are sourced. It places particular emphasis on healthy agricultural practices, minimal processing of raw materials and a sustainable supply chain. We offer three Badger sunscreens, all with SPF 30 and a mineral filter based on zinc oxide. They all provide protection against both UVA and UVB radiation. Clear Zinc Sunscreen is fragrance-free, making it particularly suited to people with sensitive skin or those who prefer products without fragrance. Badger Baby, with extracts of soothing chamomile and calendula, is suitable even for newborn babies. For older kids, there is Badger Kids. Its sweet mandarin, orange and vanilla fragrance makes applying sunscreen a much more pleasant experience for everyone involved :).
From Odylique, we offer just one product, but it is a versatile option for the whole family. Odylique is known for specialising in products for extremely sensitive, allergy-prone or eczema-prone skin. Its products are therefore suitable for both kids and adults. Odylique Sun Screen has SPF 30 and can be used on both the face and body. Its filter is based on non-nano zinc oxide and complemented by karanja oil. The balm spreads easily and does not leave a white cast on the skin. It does, however, need to be applied correctly. The trick is to let it “melt” in your palms for a moment before applying it and spreading it thoroughly over the skin.
The OHM Collection offers two sunscreens with SPF 15 and SPF 30. Both are based on zinc oxide. They are moisturising and do not leave a greasy film, making them well suited to everyday wear and as a base under make-up. Like OHM's cream deodorants, they come in distinctive airless pump packaging. This packaging technology prevents air from entering the product, helping to extend its shelf life and stability. It also removes the need for added preservatives and stabilisers.
