Beach vacations and travel may not be an option with social distancing, but we can still get outside and get some fresh air and vitamin D. Regular sun exposure is the simplest and most natural way to get vitamin D. The recommended daily allowance of vitamin D for an adult is 800-1000 IU. Doctors recommend a diet rich in vitamin D foods along with 5-15 minutes of unprotected midday sun several times per week; more if you have darker skin or live further from the equator where the sun’s rays are not as strong. Forty percent of people are deficient in vitamin D.
Chemical vs Mineral Sunscreen
Chemical Sunscreen
Chemical UV filter sunscreens contain toxins such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, homosalate, and octocrylene to aid in absorbing the sun’s rays safely but are then absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream. These chemicals can also be inadvertently passed to babies through the breastmilk of nursing mothers. Potential side effects of these toxins in chemical sunscreens include neurological, hormonal and reproductive problems or inflammation in the brain causing cognitive impairment.
Mineral Sunscreen
Mineral sunscreen reflects the sun’s UV rays instead of absorbing them like chemical sunscreen. The active ingredient in mineral sunscreen is usually titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. Mineral sunscreens are considered safer than the toxin-filled chemical sunscreens but can leave a residue on the skin, making it feel sticky.
BEWARE of products advertised as “pure” and “natural”!
The terminology and symbols on the ingredient panel of sunscreen and other health and beauty products can be difficult to translate. Some products may be advertised as “Natural” or “Pure” but can still contain toxic ingredients. There is little to no regulation on the labeling of products this way. Learn ways to decode these labels by educating yourself on labeling terms and symbols or using an app like EWG‘s Healthy Living app.
My Top 4 Mineral Sunscreen Picks:
*Kiss My Face Kids Defense Continuous Sunscreen Spray, SPF 50
*Supergoop 100% Mineral Sunscreen Mist, SPF 30
*ATTITUDE Mineral Baby and Kids Sunscreen Lotion, Fragrance-free, SPF 30
*Love Sun Body Natural Mineral Sunscreen, Fragrance-free, SPF 50
For other safe, toxin-free sunscreens, check out EWG’s 2019 Guide to Sunscreens. And watch for the 2020 Edition coming soon!
Choose wisely!
Just because we are practicing social distancing doesn’t mean we can’t get out in the fresh air! But don’t forget to protect yourself and your little ones from the sun AND from harsh toxins and chemicals by choosing a clean, mineral-based sunscreen. I have filled you in on my favorites and I would love to hear what your favorites are too! Share your favorites in the comments!
Hands up those who have thrown away food because it’s become too ripe or about to expire. (Actually, I raise my hand.) Unfortunately, this is a common habit. Every day tons of food is thrown in the trash. To avoid this, just buy smart. Maybe buying food only when the fridge or pantry is almost empty, or keeping leftovers for dinner or lunch the next day. Even storing food in the freezer can be an excellent remedy if we cannot eat them in a short time. But what if we follow these suggestions and still have food expiring before we can eat it?
My personal tip is to use this food for DIY recipe, or better, in this case, a ZERO-WASTE face Mask!
Zero-Waste Face Mask: Benefits
Banana
Banana is a valid ingredient for DIY face masks. It is full of antioxidants, minerals, vitamins A and C. It reduces inflammations such as acne and eczema and helps to hydrate the skin.
Honey
Honey represents also another MUST in face masks! It is a natural antibacterial. For this reason, it’s great for acne treatment and prevention. It is also moisturizing and soothing, so let’s add a teaspoon of honey in your recipe, your skin will thank you!
What you will need
a half-ripe banana (the one that has been lying in your fruit bowl for days and you’re thinking of throwing it away because now it has turned black! hehe…)
1 teaspoon honey
If you want to create a face mask with a scrubbing action as well, I recommend adding 1 teaspoon of oatmeal. It’s a gentle exfoliator also suitable for sensitive skin.
Procedure and application
The procedure is really easy! Mix half banana and honey until you get a homogenous mixture. If necessary, use a hand blender to avoid annoying big pieces of banana. If you want to add an exfoliating effect, also add a teaspoon of oatmeal.
After cleaning the face, apply the mixture and leave on for 5 minutes. Remove with warm water, pat face dry, and apply a moisturizing cream to start your day!
If you enjoy this content, you can check out my blog for more recipes.
Click HERE to get a mini-guide from C6 Beauty with DIY beauty recipes using items from your pantry!
***SO EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE OUR FIRST GUEST BLOGGER!!! ***
I am proud to introduce Gabi, the owner of C6 Beauty, a Düsseldorf based blog dedicated to the art of zero waste and natural beauty. Before dedicating herself to being a blogger, she spent many years studying chemistry and also obtained a doctorate. It was through this education and scientific knowledge that she became passionate about creating her own homemade products. She loves to study what’s behind every single ingredient and discover its benefits, and is always happy to share what she’s learned!
Welcome, Gabi! Thanks for the wonderful, natural face mask recipe!
Sacred Chocolate is certified organic, certified vegan, certified kosher, carbon balanced and produced in a 100% renewable energy factory in California.
