With the sun shining in all it’s glory, you would know that sunscreen (all day, every day), is non-negotiable; and while there’s no dearth of SPF superstars, it’s prudent to pick natural formulas that are devoid of toxic chemicals (Think Oxybenzone, Avobenzone, Octisalate, Octocrylene and Parabens among others.) Why? Because they get absorbed into skin and can cause a plethora of health issues.
Well, the good news is that the next generation of sunscreens are perfect for those who want a greener-cleaner approach to beauty. The new improved natural SPF formulations come in sophisticated, multi-tasking formulas that are enriched with natural plant extracts (Mulberry, Saxifrage, Grape etc.) and impart additional benefits (hydration, anti-acne, dewy glow) to name just a few. Moreover, non-toxic sunscreens don’t really need to be 100% chemical-free. Consider Mineral/Physical sunblocks that are made with nanoparticles such as Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide (mined from the Earth) that gets the job done without permeating the skin. Now ain’t that amazing?
Here are our picks for broad-spectrum sunscreens for all your summer activities, minus all the chemical toxins.
Behold, and burn no more…
Day At The Beach
Frolicking on the beach on the weekend? You need the strongest protection money can buy. Picking a water-resistant formula can definitely minimize the number of reapplications necessary— whenever you get wet or perspire. Also, it’s crucial that you look for an SPF 50 with a light non-pore-clogging texture sans greasiness. It goes without saying that choosing sprays over lotions, will make it easier to cover those hard-to-reach areas.
Nykaa recommends: Avene Very High Protection Spray SPF 50+
Work Week
You might think a BB Cream with an SPF is enough, but it’s so not the case, girl! Most of these have an SPF lower than 15, which hardly protects you from the harmful UVA/UVB rays. Instead, seal the protection in by incorporating a paraben free sunscreen under your makeup. Consider gel textures that get absorbed rapidly in the skin and leaves no residue behind. Brownie points for skin brightening and mattifying properties.
Nykaa recommends: Mamaearth HydraGel Indian Sunscreen SPF 50, with Aloe Vera & Raspberry, for Sun Protection
Gym Bunny
Whether you are slumming it in the gym or riding a bike in the morning, exercising equals sweat, and that can rapidly deplete your sun protection. However, in addition to water-resistant formulations, you also need to pick products that are light-weight and non-sticky, AKA something that doesn’t remind you constantly of its presence when you taking a specially hectic spin class.
Nykaa recommends: VLCC Water Resistant SPF60 Sun Screen Gel Crème
Safari Adventure
What you should be looking for here is a product that combines the best of broad spectrum protection with antioxidant protection, so you get the full protection on both fronts — preventative (from tanning) as well as repairing free radical damage from past sun damage. After all, you really don’t want to return from your exotic excursion with a melanoma, do you?
Nykaa recommends: Plum Chamomile & White Tea Sheer Matte Day Cream SPF50
Weekend Sundowners
Just because the sun’s rays are weaker post 4 p.m. doesn’t imply you don’t need a sunscreen. Swap your regular creams for a no-frills moisturizer with a broad spectrum SPF that will protect your skin without being goopy and thick. For a matte finish, opt for the best broad spectrum sunscreen which has an oil-control formulation to keep the greasiness at bay.
Nykaa recommends: Kaya Daily Use Sunscreen + SPF 30
Looking for oil-free and non-greasy sunscreens? Check out:
