Summer Sun Safety

A little photosynthesis never hurt anybody, right?

We love a good sun-soak as much as the next gal, and we’ve read the hype on UV Rays, but what about all the Carcinogenic properties of heavy-metal and petroleum-laden Sunscreen?

Sunscreen is touted as the secret to lasting youth by celebrities and Doctors alike. Whether you’re interested in looking young forever or you’re simply disinterested in Melanoma, painful burns and blisters, and potential infection, we’re ready with options to protect your skin from the elements and the toxic products this summer.

Risks & Dangers Of Prolonged/ Unprotected Sun-Exposure

The sun is the giver of life and balance on our planet. Without it, we wouldn’t be able to grow food or trees for shade, breathe clean air, or even see! It makes so much possible and yet it’s literally a blazing ball of fire – constantly emitting deadly radiation to accompany its warm, welcoming light.

Too much exposure to its Ultra Violet Radiation (or UV Rays as we call them) and our cells begin to change in irregular ways — ie. Freckles, Moles, Skin Cancer or Melanoma.

Those with fair skin, blue or green eyes, and red or blonde hair are more sensitive to the sun’s radiation but are more likely to stay protected and/or stay out of the sun, so be sure to keep safe no matter how much of a bronze Goddess you were to begin with.

How do you know if you’ve had too much sun? These common side-effects can be seen after as little as 30 minutes under a sun that’s too hot.

• Nausea & Vomiting
• Severe Pain & Redness
• Blistering of the Skin
• Confusion
• Headache
• Fainting & Dizziness
• Dehydration

Vitamin D – The Sun’s Benefits

It’s not all bad stuff! Like we said, the sun is the giver of life. We need it to survive here on this planet and while too much of anything can be dangerous, the right amount of uncovered sun-exposure can be good for you.

Here are just a few ways the sun works with your body to stimulate the production of vitamins and new cells that keep you running on high-octane.

• Vitamin-D aka “the sunshine vitamin” is produced in your body when your skin is exposed to the sun, specifically UVB Rays, and your body doesn’t waste! She uses that bad boy for everything from Immune Boosting to Mood Enhancement to Sleep, even Metabolism.
• Remember when we said we couldn’t see without the sun? Studies have shown that without regular exposure to natural light is actually good for your eyes. Without the sun’s light, we likely have never developed the ability to see, there’d be no need in total darkness.
• Some evidence suggests that sun-exposure may also be good for some inflammatory skin conditions like Eczema, Acne, and Psoriasis.
• Want a better brain? Get outside. Sometimes we need more focus, sometimes we need to stop overthinking and get over it. Whether its a fresh environment, fresh air, or all that vitamin D production, the sun can help improve mood, treat Seasonal Affective Disorder, fight Depression, and work with Alzheimer’s or other cognitive disorders.

What’s The Right Amount?

Optimal exposure to the sun’s warmth and light, without too many harmful UVA Rays will be unique for each of us. Your genes, where you live, the time of year, even what you eat affect how your skin reacts to the sun.

General guidelines suggest that between 10-30 minutes of unprotected sun exposure a few times a week is enough for anyone living near the Equator, where the sun is more intense.

Live somewhere with limited sun? Opt for more time outside, or invest in a UV Lamp for the home. They work wonders over the grey, winter months.

How Do I Protect My Skin?

Your best option for Chemical-free sun protection has also been provided to you by the sun — shade. Shade from trees, hats, umbrellas, sunglasses, and clothing that covers the skin are the best option to keep you from burning or getting overheated.

What you put on your skin matters, and while sunscreen historically contained some very toxic ingredients, we’re on the right path to more sustainable and healthy options. Choose a sunscreen with a good rating from the Environmental Working Group that’s free from potentially harmful heavy-metals and petroleum products.

Did you know that what you eat can affect your tan? Good thing the sun’s got your back to help grow food that can help keep you safe. Fill up on Antioxidant-rich summer berries, juicy watermelon, nuts and seeds, veggies and green tea to help protect your skin from potential damage, and speed up healing if a burn strikes.

Always be sure to keep your skin healthy, protected, and moisturized to prevent potential damage that can cause inflammation, infection, etc.. Ensure your skin’s moisture barrier is intact with a nourishing moisturizer that protects from the inside out.

Have a question about skincare or a skin concern/issue you want help to resolve?

Leave us a comment below or send an email to geticosmetics@gmail.com. We’ll get back to you with real information and your question could help other people facing the same things! Help us change the beauty industry for the better.

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References:

Harmful Effects of Sun & Warning Signs

Benefits of Sun Exposure

Sun Exposure Recommendations

EWG’s Sunscreen Guide

Food and Sun Protection