Organic and natural agents can make up sunscreens and be just as effective as sunscreens that use synthetic materials. Natural minerals are proven to work, creating ways to make your own sunscreen with as few additives as possible.
Titanium Dioxide
This ingredient makes up many personal care products and cosmetics. The Food and Drug Administration has exempted titanium dioxide from certification because it is listed as a color additive, however it is approved as a sunscreen at up to a 25 percent concentration. This mineral derivative reflects the sun’s UV radiation and scatters it, reducing the skin’s burning. This sunburn prevention helps keep skin from aging premature. It protects from UVA and UVB rays from 230 to 700 nanometers, which is a wide range of the sun’s rays.
Zinc Oxide
Zinc oxide is a skin protectant and sunscreen. The FDA approved it for use in medications (such as diaper rash cream) and sun-protecting products in up to a 25 percent concentration. It has alternative uses as a bulking agent and colorant. The agent works by reflecting the UV rays and keeping them from penetrating the skin. Keeping skin safe from UVA and UVB rays can help stop premature aging of the skin and some forms of cancer. It will protect in the UVA and UVB range of 230 to 700 nanometers.
Mexoryl SX
Mexoryl SX, or terephthalylidene dicamphor sulfonic acid, received approval from the FDA in July 2006 in a sunscreen called La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios SX SPF 15. It was the first product the FDA approved it to be in. After hours of exposure in the sun, Mexoryl SX breaks down more slowly and has a higher stability. It protects in the UVA range of 320 to 400 nanometers, slightly under titanium dioxide and zinc oxide’s range. According to Cosmetics Cop, it is an effective sunscreen agent for UVA sun rays.
Red Raspberry Seed Oil
Rich in vitamin E, vitamin A and antioxidants, red raspberry seed oil can moisturize the skin and works as an emollient, making skin soft and smooth. According to Natural Sourcing, it can protect skin from UVA and UVB rays and has been rated at 28 to 50 SPF. It is added to many sun-protecting and skin-care products.
About this Author
T.M. Samuels, a freelancer for more than 20 years, writes on health and wellness topics. She typically picks topics on medical conditions, side effects or ingredients in personal care products. Her print credits include “Arthritis Today” and “Mature Years.” She is happy to be a LIVESTRONG writer.
