5 Common Myths About Natural Sunscreen

Last week on the Nature's Basin Facebook Page, I posed a question about natural sunscreens. I wanted to find out why some people are still choosing to purchase more harmful, chemical sunscreens. Over the holiday weekend, I met with some of my friends. We were sitting outdoors and I pulled my sunscreen out to reapply since it had been many hours since my last application.

One of my friends was shocked that my Badger SPF 30 Unscented Sunscreen applied with ease and didn't leave a thick white residue. She commented that she thought all natural sunscreens left behind a white film, so she avoided them.

Today I'd like to discuss some reasons many people still opt to use chemical sunscreens when natural ones really are more healthful.

Myth #1: Natural sunscreens are all thick and hard to rub in.


Natural sunscreens generally are thicker than their chemical-laden counterparts. However, the natural sunscreen products at Nature's Basin are fortified with emollients such as olive oil, jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, shea butter and more. These not only moisturize the skin, but they absorb beautifully into the skin.

Myth #2: Natural sunscreens leave a white film behind on the skin.


This is not always the case. When natural sunscreens first came on the market, they were usually formulated solely around zinc oxide.  This is the ingredient that blocks the sun's rays, but it also can leave that white residue. Products are being formulated to still protect the skin naturally, but also be more user friendly nowadays.

For example, micronized titanium dioxide and coated zinc oxide particles are often used in natural sunscreens. These ingredients can make the product go on sheer.

Myth #3: Natural sunscreens do not protect your skin as well as traditional sunscreens.

Not true. As long as you use the recommend amount, natural sunscreens will work just as well as chemical sunscreens. By the way, this applies to all sunscreens. If you're not using the proper amount, they won't work as well.

Myth #4: Natural sunscreens are too expensive.

Natural sunscreens generally are more costly than drugstore chemical-filled and potentially harmful sunscreens. This is true.

What is so important to remember, though, is that a good sunscreen is going to be your best anti-aging product. Since much of aging can be attributed to UV damage, sunscreen is imperative.

Most people will not hesitate to spend quite a bit of money on a night cream or serum or on a handbag or shoes. In fact, I know of people who will spend $250 on a handbag, but do not want to spend the money on an effective natural sunscreen.

Think of it this way: you only have one skin. It should only make sense that you take care of it. Sunscreen can help prevent skin cancer AND help prevent the signs of aging. Not many products can say that!

Myth #5: Natural sunscreens are hard to find.


This used to be the case. Not anymore. As people become more and more aware of the importance of sun protection and harmful ingredients, more and more natural sunscreens are hitting the market.

At Nature's Basin, we offer several natural sunscreens, including the Environmental Working Group's top picks of 2010 and 2011. From EcoLogical and Soleo to Badger and Erbaviva, we offer the best sunscreens for your entire family.

Now is a great time to stock up. Remember we ship free with any purchase of $49 or more, plus we include complimentary samples with every order.