Many people do not realise that standard sunscreens can actually be bad for both them and the environment. It is an understandable misconception about a product that protects us from harm and is of course directly related to the environment, especially in the context of global warming. Yet the fact is that traditional creams and oils often contain hormone-affecting toxic chemicals that not only damage our bodies but also cause harm to marine life such as coral reefs and sea urchins, as well as mammals.
As ever, there are sustainable alternatives available, which include:
Shade All-Natural Sunscreen is SPF25 and is a cream made from only natural ingredients: Soil Association-certified organic shea butter and coconut oil, non-nano zinc oxide and unrefined beeswax. It is packaged in a recyclable tin.
Dirty Hippy Cosmetics Coconut Sunscreen Balm is described as being ‘reef-safe’ and waste-free, and is free from preservatives, toxins and irritants. It is handmade using zinc oxide powder, organic, fair trade coconut, carrot seed, raspberry seed and wheatgerm oils.
Meanwhile, Plastic Freedom has a range of sustainable, plastic-free sunscreen products on its website, such as the Amazinc Vegan Tanning Oil, made from all-plant-based ingredients, and The Coconut Bee Gold Sands Tanning Oil, which is handmade in Cornwall using organic carrot seed oil, coconut oil and aloe vera extract.
further shopping…
Many people do not realise that standard sunscreens can actually be bad for both them and the environment. It is an understandable misconception about a product that protects us from harm and is of course directly related to the environment, especially in the context of global warming. Yet the fact is that traditional creams and oils often contain hormone-affecting toxic chemicals that not only damage our bodies but also cause harm to marine life such as coral reefs and sea urchins, as well as mammals.
As ever, there are sustainable alternatives available, which include:
Shade All-Natural Sunscreen is SPF25 and is a cream made from only natural ingredients: Soil Association-certified organic shea butter and coconut oil, non-nano zinc oxide and unrefined beeswax. It is packaged in a recyclable tin.
Dirty Hippy Cosmetics Coconut Sunscreen Balm is described as being ‘reef-safe’ and waste-free, and is free from preservatives, toxins and irritants. It is handmade using zinc oxide powder, organic, fair trade coconut, carrot seed, raspberry seed and wheatgerm oils.
Meanwhile, Plastic Freedom has a range of sustainable, plastic-free sunscreen products on its website, such as the Amazinc Vegan Tanning Oil, made from all-plant-based ingredients, and The Coconut Bee Gold Sands Tanning Oil, which is handmade in Cornwall using organic carrot seed oil, coconut oil and aloe vera extract.