Fortunately there are some products that are non-toxic sunscreens. Many plants have developed their own UVR protection and it is the extracts or oils from these plants that can provide us with natural protection. The SPF ratings for these extracts and oils are not as high as synthetically produced products but they are safe for us and for the environment.
As in all things, the best approach to UVR protection is one of moderation:
- limit the amount of time in the sun
- stay indoors in the most extreme UVR times of the day
- use clothing, hat and sunglasses as barrier protection as much as possible
- apply plant derived sunscreens to exposed skin
Natural plant oils and extracts and SPF
There are a number of natural ingredients that offer sun protection. They are:
- Hemp seed oil – SPF 6
- Shea Butter – Cinnaminic Acid – SPF 6
- Macadamia oil – SPF 6
- Sesame seed oil – SPF 4
- Jojoba oil – SPF 4
- Coconut oil – SPF 2
Many of these extracts have other benefits besides UVR protection. Because the nutrients in Hemp seed oil so closely resemble our body’s natural lipids, it is easily absorbed into our skin. It has natural anti-bacterial qualities and is one of the world’s richest sources of essential fatty acids, essential amino acids and other nutrients important for healthy keratin formation.
Although these plant extracts do not have high SPF, they do NOT interfere with the absorption of vitamin D like the synthetic chemical sun protection products. Plant extracts may also assist with cell repair. Products such as hemp oil.
Reference: http://www.sickamongthepure.net