Sun Pastes Vs Sunscreens: The Future of Sun Protection
With summer in full swing, it's important to be vigilant about sun protection. However, many people are becoming more and more concerned about the potential harm that traditional sunscreens can cause to both our bodies and the environment. This has led to the recent rise of "sun pastes" and other alternative sun protection products. In this post, we'll explore the history of sunscreens and the emergence of sun pastes, as well as the benefits and potential future of this trend.
The First Sun Protection
Sunscreen has been used for thousands of years, with the ancient Greeks and Egyptians using natural substances like rice bran and jasmine to protect their skin. Modern sunscreen as we know it, however, wasn't developed until the 1930s, with the invention of the first commercial sunscreen product. Since then, sunscreen has become a ubiquitous part of beach culture and daily skincare routines alike.
Industrial Growth of Sunscreen
However, in recent years, concerns have been raised about the chemicals found in traditional sunscreens, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can be harmful not only to human health, but also to marine life and coral reefs. In fact, Hawaii recently banned sunscreens containing these chemicals in an effort to protect its delicate ecosystems.
Enter sun pastes, which are often made with natural ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which provide UVA and UVB protection without harmful side effects. Many of these products are also eco-friendly and produced in smaller, locally-owned shops. The texture of sun pastes is different from traditional sunscreens, with a thicker, more opaque consistency.
Another benefit of sun pastes is that they typically last longer on the skin, requiring less frequent reapplication than traditional sunscreens. This is due to the fact that the thicker consistency creates a barrier on the skin, blocking UV rays for a longer period of time.
Sun Pastes Gain Popularity
So, what does the future of sun protection look like? Many experts believe that sun pastes and other natural, eco-friendly sun protection products will continue to gain in popularity. Consumers are increasingly concerned about health and environmental issues, and are willing to pay more for products that meet these criteria. In addition, governments and organizations are taking steps to regulate traditional sunscreens and promote safer alternatives.
Takeaway: Consider trying a sun paste & trash your sprays.
Sun pastes are an exciting and welcome development in the world of sun protection. Not only do they offer effective UVA and UVB protection, but they also provide an eco-friendly and health-conscious alternative to traditional sunscreens. As we continue to navigate the complexities of protecting our skin and our planet, sun pastes and other natural sun protection products are sure to play an important role. So next time you head to the beach or spend an afternoon in the sun, consider trying out a sun paste for yourself!