radicals and render them ineffective.”Weleda’s sunscreens contain organic edelweiss extract blended
with carrot and light sesame oil, which are also valued for their UV-filtering properties.
As effective as vitamins C and E already are, their performance really shines when ferulic acid,
another powerful plant antioxidant, steps in. When ferulic acid works in synergy with vitamins C and
E, the skin receives eight times more protection from sunburns and skin cancer. This antioxidant
formulation also greatly reduces damage of skin cell DNA (Lin et al. 2005).
Carotenoids are natural pigments that protect us from sun radiation by scavenging free radicals.
Studies show that a carotenoid-rich diet is very efficient in sun protection, and eating foods rich in
lutein, zeaxanthin, alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, and lycopene can significantly lower your chances
of getting a sunburn (Stahl, Sies 2005). A 2004 German study found that treatment with carotenoids is
needed for a period of at least ten weeks, and increased consumption of carotenoids in tomatoes,
spinach, broccoli, zucchini, and, of course, carrots, may contribute to lifelong protection against UV-
induced damage (Sies, Stahl 2004). Pure lutein and beta-carotene are also available as food
supplements.
Green Product Guide: Sunscreens
Exposure to sunlight has always been a natural part of life, and even though the ozone layer is
diminishing, there is no reason to avoid sunshine. Just be careful and use a natural mineral sunscreen.
Common sense tells us that too much of anything is unhealthy, so use your judgment when outdoors.
The following are my recommended sunscreens, rated from one to three leaves, with three being my
favorite.
Lavera SPF30 Baby and Child Sun Spray can be used by the whole family. Fine zinc oxide
and titanium dioxide do not leave a whitish cast on skin, and the smell is fresh and summery but not
too noticeable. Fatty acids from certified organic ingredients moisturize and ensure even application.
The spray bottle allows adding antioxidants such as green tea extract, vitamin E, and a few drops of
eucalyptus oil for bug repelling purposes. The only drawback is the presence of alumina in the
formulation: I have mixed feelings about aluminum in any form in my skin care products.
Juice Organics SPF30 Light TintMoisturizer is the only product I need on a summer
morning. A formula with titanium dioxide sits on my skin nicely, while a load of antioxidant plant
extracts (white grape, pomegranate, aloe, apple, cucumber, green tea) join forces with serious skin
soothers and plumpers like vitamin C, E, and B5; allantoin; and hyaluronic acid. It contains no
paraben preservatives or synthetic dyes, but does have essential oil fragrance, which may be irritating
to sensitive skin.
Dr. Hauschka Sunscreen Cream SPF30 is an extremely green and versatile product, and
the only sunscreen we use in our family. And as with any family member, we have learned how to
live with its shortcomings. Shortcomings? Any mineral sunscreen may leave a whitish cast if you
apply it thickly or frequently. Newer, micronized zinc sunscreens are not as heavy and may not leave
a white film. Any mineral may cause you to break out (if you can’t stand zinc oxide, try titanium
oxide, and vice versa). Spread it well and top it off with mineral foundation powder to set it up.