Beyond Sunscreen: Alternative Ways to Protect Your Skin from the Sun

Sunscreen is often promoted as the ultimate solution to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun.

However, recent studies have shown that sunscreen might not be the best option for protecting your skin.

In this post, we’ll explore the harms of using sunscreen and provide alternative ways to protect your skin from the sun while still reaping its benefits.

Harms of Using Sunscreen

1. Harmful Chemicals: Most conventional sunscreens contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octocrylene, which have been linked to hormonal disruptions, allergic reactions, and other health problems.
2. Reduced Vitamin D Synthesis: Sunscreen blocks UVB rays, which are necessary for your body to synthesize vitamin D, an essential nutrient for bone health, immune function, and other vital processes.
3. False Sense of Security: Sunscreen can give you a false sense of security, making you stay in the sun longer than you should, leading to sunburns and increasing your risk of skin cancer.

Alternative Ways to Protect Yourself from the Sun

1. Sun Protection Clothing: Wearing sun protection clothing like long-sleeved shirts, hats, and sunglasses can help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
2. Seek Shade: Avoiding direct sunlight during peak hours (10 am to 4 pm) can help reduce your exposure to UV rays.
3. Natural Sunscreen: Some natural ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide can provide sun less toxic protection. Look for sunscreens that use these natural ingredients instead of the conventional ones. One of my favorite natural sun shields is from Earthley.
4. Gradual Sun Exposure: Gradual sun exposure can help your body adapt to the sun’s rays and build up a natural resistance to it. Start with short periods of sun exposure and gradually increase the duration over time. 
5. Supplement Key Nutrients: Enhance sun protection and promote healthy skin with vitamin E, magnesium, and avoiding polyunsaturated fatty acids. Read more about that here.

Should you find yourself needing a little relief after a day in the sun, Earthley has a great Sun Soothe After-Sun Lotion. This cooling lotion helps to relieve pain and redness, prevent peeling, and moisturize the skin.

As we’ve covered, sunscreen may not be the best option for protecting your skin from the sun.

Instead, consider alternative ways like sun protection clothing, seeking shade, natural sunscreen, and gradual sun exposure to reap the benefits of the sun while minimizing the harms.

Protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays is essential, but you don’t have to rely on sunscreen alone.

Choose natural and healthier ways to enjoy the sun and maintain healthy skin.