Natural ways to protect ourselves from the sun's rays are not only effective, but also beneficial for our skin. Get ready for a safe summer with natural protection! Although vegetable oils do not provide high sun protection, they have many other beneficial properties for the skin. They act as antioxidants, neutralising free radicals formed by UVA radiation. So which vegetable oils can act as natural UV filters?
During the summer, the skin of the face and body is particularly exposed to intense sunlight. That is why it is so important to protect against the harmful effects of UVA and UVB rays. Creams and lotions with a high SPF are essential to prevent damage to collagen fibres, photo-ageing, sunburn, sun discolouration and the risk of skin cancer. It is therefore a good idea to apply a protective cosmetic before any sun exposure. Sunscreens can be found not only in professional creams, lotions and oilsbut also in natural oils and plant ingredients. However, it is important to note that natural UV filters do not provide sufficient protection against the sun's radiation. Their effectiveness is comparable to an SPF of 2-10, and most of them absorb mainly UVB radiation, without protecting against UVA. Therefore, natural filters should be supplemented with mineral or chemical filters.
Natural ways to protect against UV radiation
Natural oils that protect against UV radiation are extremely diverse, although their SPF efficacy can vary widely. Among the oils with low SPF protection (around 4-8) is coconut oil. Its benefits are mainly fast absorption, soothing irritation and intensely moisturising the skin. This fact makes the oil ideal for use after sunbathing to soothe and moisturise irritated skin.
Shea butter, present in many skincare products, also provides some sun protection. Not only does it act as an SPF filter, but it also protects the skin from external factors and prevents moisture loss. Its soothing and anti-ageing properties make it a valuable ingredient in cosmetics. Such as the body lotion with donkey milk from Galeo, where shea butter is one of the key components.
One of the most effective natural oils in terms of sun protection is raspberry seed oil, which can reach an SPF close to 50. It protects against both UVB rays, responsible for sunburn, and UVA rays, which contribute to premature skin ageing. In addition, raspberry seed oil is a powerful antioxidant. It prevents hyperpigmentation and makes the skin smooth and soft, absorbing quickly, making it ideal for daily skincare.
Many other vegetable oils also offer natural protection from the sun. Wheat germ oil, for example, rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, has an anti-inflammatory and regenerative effect on the skin while protecting it from UV radiation. Although these natural filters cannot replace chemical and mineral sunscreens, their additional skincare properties make them a valuable addition to your daily skin protection routine.
Why choose natural methods?
It's worth betting on protecting your skin naturally with oils and plant extracts, while exercising moderation in sunbathing. When you cover your body with a soft cloth, stay in the shade or walk on a cloudy day, you reduce your exposure to UVB radiation by up to 95%. In these situations, you do not need to reach for sunscreen creams, which can contain harmful substances. Plant extracts and oils not only protect you from the sun, but also provide your skin with moisturising, nourishing and antioxidant ingredients. These natural ingredients neutralise free radicals caused by UV radiation and promote skin regeneration. Plant products are rich in polyphenols, which have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects. They have strong antioxidant properties, support the regeneration of vitamin E and inhibit the action of collagenase enzymes, which contribute to the breakdown of collagen fibres.
The ethanol extract of Chinese citronella shows a protective effect on fibroblasts when exposed to UV radiation. It inhibits melanogenesis, preventing the formation of spots and discolouration.
Vegetable fats are effective in absorbing ultraviolet radiation over a wide range, although their strength of protection can vary. It is therefore worth choosing those that offer the most benefits for your skin.
Other natural protection measures
Green tea is rich in antioxidants, which protect the skin from the damaging effects of free radicals created by exposure to UV radiation. Regularly drinking green tea and applying it to the skin can strengthen the skin's natural defence mechanisms.
Beta-carotene, found in many fruits and vegetables, also protects the skin from UV radiation. This natural plant pigment acts as an antioxidant and inhibits the production of melanin, which helps to protect the skin from the ageing process caused by sunlight.
Unlike chemical filters, which can penetrate the skin and cause allergic reactions, mineral filters, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, work on the surface of the skin. They are more environmentally friendly and less irritating to the skin. Which makes them an ideal choice for people with sensitive skin and for children.
