Organic sun creams: natural and ecological protection
What is an organic sunscreen?
There are two main types of sunscreens: chemical filters and mineral filters. The chemical filter, thanks to its organic molecules, will absorb the sun's rays instead of the skin. The action of the mineral filter is very different and the latter will play a barrier role thanks to an assembly of mineral microparticles. The latter will not absorb the rays but reflect them. There are non-organic mineral creams, but to obtain organic certification, a cream MUST be mineral. But this is obviously not enough! Obtaining the organic label is conditioned by several other factors: an organic sunscreen must contain at least 95% of ingredients of natural origin, at least 95% of organic ingredients on all plants and at least 10% of organic ingredients on the total product.
Organic sunscreen: better for the skin…
Where chemical filters can cause allergic reactions, the organic chemical filter, which generally contains titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, is precisely made to minimize the risk of allergy. The cream acts as a screen on the surface of the skin and makes this natural protection the ideal sun care for the whole family because it will not penetrate the epidermis. Organic sun cream does not contain endocrine disruptors, preservatives, silicones, pesticides, fertilizers or synthetic fragrances and will instead give pride of place to vegetable oils. Be careful, however, recent research indicates that the nanoparticles present in the mineral filters of certain sun creams could present a health risk. The ideal is therefore to choose an organic sun cream without nanoparticles, by carefully observing its composition. They are indicated by the words titanium dioxide (nano) and zinc oxide (nano). You can turn with your eyes closed to the brands Alphanova, Laboratoire Biarritz but also Lavera and Acorelle.
|
...and for the planet!
The chemical filters contained in sunscreens are a real ecological disaster. More than 25,000 tons of sunscreens are released into the oceans each year, causing the destruction of coral reefs and aquatic fauna. The entire marine ecosystem is then threatened. An organic sunscreen will always be better for the environment because, as we have seen, it contains at least 95% of ingredients of natural origin. Another element to take into account: that of the packaging. Most organic cosmetic brands make a point of using recyclable packaging, another very good point!
Organic sunscreen: how to use it?
An organic sunscreen is as effective as a classic cream. But to be effective it must be applied very regularly, at least every two hours and after each swim. For children and fair skin, always choose an SPF 50 cream.
