004: Summer Is Here, Wear Your Eco-Friendly Sunscreen!

Summer has arrived, and it's more important than ever to protect your skin from the sun. The sun is intense and can do a lot of harm to your body if you're not cautious. There's no need to completely stay away from the sun, as long as we are careful and plan for when we want to get our tan on! There are plenty of options when it comes to sustainable skincare, and at Happy Eco, we encourage you to choose an eco-friendly sunscreen that keeps you and the environment safe!

Tips for Sun Protection

First, here are our best tips for general sun protection.

• Try to avoid being in direct sunlight when the sun is at its strongest. For instance, stay in the shade between 11 AM - 3 PM. Awnings, umbrellas, and tarps are great options when you can't retreat indoors.

• Wear breathable clothing, such as an airy linen shirt. Hats and sunglasses also help to protect against the sun, as they protect your eyes, face, and upper body — all vulnerable places where you can more easily burn. 

• Always choose an eco-friendly sunscreen and reapply it often!

Why Eco-Friendly Sunscreen?

There are a lot of products on the market today that promise to protect you from the sun. But when we see rows upon rows of sunblock, we often wonder if some products are better than others. The answer to that question is, "Yes!" You don't have to use chemicals — there is an entire market for eco-friendly sunscreen within sustainable skincare.

So which sunscreen should you choose? Happy Eco encourages you to pick eco-friendly and water-friendly sunscreen with high protection.

Here's why: 

Unlike regular sunscreen, choosing sustainable skincare will help you avoid damaging synthetic chemicals. These toxins can harm both your health and the environment. So, if you care about keeping your skin fresh and healthy and keeping the ocean and reef safe, you should choose eco!

The Importance of Water-Friendly Sunscreen 

A recent article in the Independent stressed that "Global warming may be the biggest threat to coral reefs, but some of the chemicals found in our usual sunscreens certainly aren't helping matters." If you didn't know that your sunscreen was adding to issues like coral bleaching and harming our oceans and waterways, don't worry — you can easily switch to an eco-friendly sunscreen! 

Mineral sunscreens are a great option because they are safe for your skin and the oceans. You will rub it in like any lotion, and it will stay as a layer on your skin while you are in the sun. Some people don't like how thick it is and that it's more difficult for your skin to absorb. But thanks to technology, mineral sunscreens are getting better every day! And afterward, you can easily wash it off without leaving any harmful chemicals behind. It's an eco-friendly and water-friendly sunscreen!

Dangers of Chemical Sunscreens

Conventional sunscreens use chemicals that penetrate the skin for protection. This method leaves traces of toxic substances on the skin, which can easily irritate or absorb into your body. Eco-friendly versions do not do that!

When it comes to choosing a sunscreen, it's best to select a sustainable brand that offers safe skin protection. Even if you don't typically get sunburned while using a conventional brand, it doesn't mean that you're keeping yourself safe. The chemicals can absorb inside your body and harm the water. When in doubt, follow our motto: Be Happy & Choose Eco!