As skincare trends develop and change over the years, the demand for safer, non-toxic beauty products has skyrocketed, and one product that's gaining serious attention across the globe is non-toxic suncream. Traditional and mainstream sunscreens, whilst somewhat effective at protecting against UV rays, often contain harmful chemicals that can be detrimental and harmful to our health and also, the environment. By switching to non-toxic suncream, you’re making a conscious decision to protect your skin in a cleaner, safer way. And for the parents reading this, for your children too!
But why is this shift so important? Let’s explore the reasons you should consider making the switch to non-toxic suncreams instead of opting for the chemical-laden alternatives found on your local supermarket’s shelves
Non-Toxic Suncream: What Actually Makes It Non-Toxic?
Non-toxic suncream refers to sunscreen made from natural ingredients that are safe for both your skin and the environment, like beef tallow for example . Unlike conventional, mainstream sunscreens, which often contain harmful chemicals such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, and other toxic parabens, non-toxic suncreams often utilise mineral-based ingredients like zinc oxide to provide a safer and protective barrier against harmful UV rays. These ingredients are known for their broad-spectrum protection without compromising your health. Zinc oxide for example works by sitting on the surface of the skin and reflecting both UVA and UVB rays, offering broad-spectrum sun protection. Unlike chemical sunscreens that absorb UVradiation, zinc oxide is gentle, non-irritating, and suitable for sensitive skin. It is also reef-safe and environmentally friendly which is why we use it here at OhSo Bare.
Why Should You Make the Switch to Non-Toxic Suncream?
Amongst prioritising your health and paying more attention to the products you apply to your skin, switching your suncream to the non-toxic alternative is just the first step towards non-toxic living - and it’s something you won’t regret.
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Avoid Harmful Chemicals
Many of the suncreams you own, probably piling up in your drawer, contain ingredients like oxybenzone, which have been linked to hormone disruption and skin allergies which can also impact your children’s health. By choosing a non-toxic suncream, you’re avoiding these harmful chemicals that can be absorbed into your skin and bloodstream. Studies have shown that oxybenzone can stay in your system for extended periods, leading to long-term exposure, which may contribute to health issues down the line. At OhSo Bare, our suncream is formulated without the harmful chemicals commonly found in high street suncreams. Instead, we use only truly non-toxic ingredients: organic grass-fed tallow, cold-pressed oils, botanical infusions, and certified essential oils.
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Safer and Less Harsh on Sensitive Skin
If you suffer with sensitive skin, or conditions like eczema, you may have noticed irritation or breakouts after applying conventional suncreams. They can leave your skin feeling dry, red or blotchy and can also cause the breakout of rashes. Non-toxic suncream, made with gentler ingredients, is much less likely to cause reactions. Natural suncreams often contain nourishing ingredients like coconut oil, which soothe the skin while providing protection from the sun. Since starting our small, non-toxic suncream brand, we’ve had an influx of messages from customers suffering from various skin conditions, praising our suncreams for their gentle feel.
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Environmental Benefits
The chemicals in high-street sunscreens don’t just affect your skin - they also harm the environment. But how? Take it this way, when you swim in the ocean, chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate wash off your body and naturally, end up in the water. These substances are known to contribute to coral bleaching, which devastates marine ecosystems. By switching to a non-toxic suncream, you’re helping to protect our oceans and reduce the environmental impact of sunscreen pollution which amongst the many reasons to make the switch!
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Better for Long-Term Health
Over time, consistent exposure to the chemicals found in conventional sunscreens can lead to various health concerns. Research suggests that some sunscreen ingredients are endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with hormone function in the body amongst a host of other issues. Choosing a non-toxic suncream helps reduce your exposure to these chemicals and supports long-term health.
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Broad-Spectrum Protection Without Compromise
With all the above in mind, you may still be wondering, "does non-toxic suncream provide the same protection as regular sunscreen?" , and the answer is yes, of course! Non-toxic suncreams often use mineral blockers like zinc oxide, which we also use at OhSo, which sit on the skin’s surface and physically block UV rays. These ingredients are effective at providing broad-spectrum protection without being absorbed into the bloodstream like chemical sunscreens.
Key Ingredients in Non-Toxic Suncreams:
When shopping for a non-toxic suncream alternative, make sure to look for formulas with these key ingredients:
Zinc Oxide: A mineral-based ingredient that provides excellent protection against both UVA and UVB rays. It’s gentle on the skin and doesn’t cause irritation.
Natural Oils: Many non-toxic sunscreens incorporate oils like coconut or jojoba oil to moisturise the skin while offering protection, and at OhSo Bare, we take no shortcuts.
Beef Tallow: Tallow has a composition very similar to our skin's natural oils, making it easily absorbable and highly nourishing. Rich in vitamins like A, D, E, and K, as well as essential fatty acids, tallow can help moisturise and protect the skin, making it an excellent choice for formulations like creams, balms soaps - and of course, suncreams
These ingredients not only protect your skin but also nourish and hydrate it, making non-toxic suncream a fantastic multi-tasker in your skincare routine.
So, Why Make the Switch Today?
Switching to non-toxic suncream is a simple yet impactful change you can make for your health and the planet. By choosing suncreams free from harmful chemicals, you’re not only protecting your skin but also doing your part to preserve marine life and reduce toxic pollution. Whether you’re relaxing on the beach or going about your daily routine, non-toxic suncream provides safe, effective sun protection without compromise and OhSo Bare is here for your face, body and family.
Take the plunge and make the switch today with OhSo Bare.
