Sun Protection Naturally

Summer has begun, Canada Day is fast approaching and many of us are looking forward to spending summer holidays outdoors with family and friends. While enjoying the sunshine is never a bad idea, too much sun exposure can wreak havoc on your skin. Instead of relying on chemical sunscreens to protect your skin, go natural with these tips.

The easiest way to protect your skin naturally is with physical blocks: spend time in the shade, wear layers, wear clothing with a natural SPF (like hemp clothing!), wear a hat and be sure to use a safe sunblock!

All of our sun-protection products are recommended by the Environmental Working Group in their Guide to Sunscreens. We also carry several local products with clean ingredients. We even have natural sunless tanners if you want a healthy tan!

Remember to reapply your sunblock often, which is especially important with all natural sunscreens since they use ingredients like titanium or zinc oxide, which are physical blocks that protect your skin by sitting on the skin's surface.

If you do find yourself with a sunburn, applying witch hazel, rosehip oil and/or pure aloe can help soothe and heal your skin. Your skin may also benefit from increased moisture when it's recovering to restore its natural balance.

One of the best ways to protect your skin from too much sun is actually through your diet! Make sure to include lots of fresh organic fruits and veggies in your diet. Juicing is also a great idea during the summer. Whether you're juicing or enjoying fruits and veggies as a snack or part of a meal, be sure to include ones high in vitamin C and the antioxidant beta carotene like carrots, mangos, kale, oranges and berries. These nutrients help your body deal with sun exposure and renew your skin every day, plus regularly consuming beta carotene gives you a natural glow and even a natural SPF! Watermelon is another great fruit with skin-protecting properties; eating it regularly helps your body deal with UV radiation by providing you with a natural SPF base.

Don't forget about dark leafy greens and healthy fats for natural sun protection! Dark leafy greens are rich in chlorophyll and important vitamins and minerals that help your skin deal with the added stress from the sun, plus they're abundant all summer long! Healthy fats are also important for your overall skin health; enjoy avocados, wild salmon, flax oil and raw nuts and seeds regularly to provide your skin with essential fats and nutrients to look its best.

Finally, if you find you're short on time this summer, you can always add a good quality greens powder to your routine. These powders give you a major dose of antioxidants, chlorophyll, vitamin C and minerals for optimal skin health and natural sun protection. Make a simple smoothie every morning with a scoop of greens powder, bananas and berries, and even some kale for a skin-loving drink!

Find everything you need to keep your skin healthy all summer long in-store! We're always happy to help :)