Sunscreen is a must-have for your skincare routine. But what if we suggest going natural instead of using unhealthy sunscreen products? Think about it, as we have some natural alternatives to sunscreen that you can try.
But there’s always a big question: Do natural sunscreens really work? Let’s find out.
Are There Natural Alternatives to Sunscreen?
Yes! There are many natural ingredients that can act as a shield against harsh sun rays. Ancient traditions, especially in Ayurveda, have long relied on plant-based ingredients to protect the skin from the sun's rays.
Did you know that oils like coconut oil, red raspberry seed oil, and carrot seed oil are often suggested as alternatives to sunscreen for the face? Yes! But wait—before you swap your SPF bottle for a DIY mix, let’s check out how effective these ingredients are!
Is Homemade Sunscreen Really Effective?
Many DIY beauty enthusiasts swear by natural sunscreen at home, but is homemade sunscreen effective? The answer is tricky. Some ingredients may offer mild sun protection, but they usually lack broad-spectrum coverage. Compared to commercial sunscreens that undergo rigorous testing to ensure protection against UVA and UVB rays, homemade sunscreens don’t have that level of testing.
Best Homemade Sunscreens That You Can Try!
If you’re looking to try homemade sunscreen with SPF 50, know that no DIY formula can guarantee such high protection. However, some ingredients do offer limited SPF:
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Red Raspberry Seed Oil – Estimated SPF 28-50
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Carrot Seed Oil – Estimated SPF 35-40
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Shea Butter – SPF 3-6
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Coconut Oil – SPF 4-5
While these homemade sunscreens made from natural ingredients can shield against UV rays, they might not be reliable as a sole sun protection agent. To ensure these homemade sunscreens work effectively, you need to combine them with physical barriers like hats, scarves, and sunglasses.
Are Ayurvedic Sunscreens Effective?
Ayurveda emphasises natural protection through herbs and lifestyle changes. Here are a few Ayurvedic ingredients that you can try as sunscreens:
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Sesame Oil
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Sandalwood
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Aloe Vera
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Turmeric
So, if you still have the question, Do Ayurvedic sunscreens work? The answer is: to some extent. They can help reduce the effects of sun exposure, but they might not replace SPF-based sunscreens.
Would You Try Using Natural Alternatives?
If you are staying indoors or going out with minimal UV exposure, natural sunscreen at home can be a good option to try. However, if you’re outdoors for an extended period, it’s best to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. A combination of natural sunscreen in Ayurveda and traditional sunscreens can work wonders too!
So, while natural alternatives offer some benefits, they shouldn’t be your only line of defence against the sun. Stay safe, stay glowing! Team Bold & Bae Fashion