Written by: Abi Mogge, Staff Writer
Here at My Beauty Bunny, we are on the lookout for products that are cruelty free, meaning neither the product itself or the source ingredients are ever tested on animals. But what about after production? What about the effect of your beauty and lifestyle products on animals after they are created?
Recently, I’ve been learning about the way that chemical sunscreens can affect the ecosystem and wildlife in aquatic environments. A phenomenon called coral bleaching can occur with certain ingredients in chemical sunscreens, causing a chain reaction that bleaches and eventually kills the reef. Using a biodegradable, zinc oxide-based sunscreen like the ones I tried from Raw Elements is recommended by environmental groups as a safe alternative to damaging chemical formulas.
Raw Elements Eco Formula 30+ and the Eco Stick 30+ contain non-nano zinc oxide as the active ingredient and 100% certified organic and all-natural inactive ingredients that moisturize and nourish the skin. Zinc Oxide protects against UVB and UVA rays, which are responsible for the deep damage done to our skin that causes premature aging and melanoma.
The Eco Formula 30+ has a thick consistency, and does leave a slight white cast to the skin. This is not a ‘matte-finish-works-great-under-makeup’ sunblock. This is a ‘the-last-thing-I-need-to-think-about-during-my-triathlon-is-reapplying-sunblock’ type of product. This formula is very water and sweat resistant. Even when worn during a sweaty workout, it didn’t run into my eyes or sting and it didn’t wear off until I washed it off with soap, water and a washcloth.
The Eco Stick has the same formula in a tube form that is convenient to toss into a purse or beach bag and can actually be applied underwater (a bonus for true aquatic enthusiasts). I love that these formulas contain ingredients like green tea, sunflower and hemp oil, cacao and mango butter, as well as others that moisturize and nourish the skin while protecting it.
These are great products for everyone, but are especially good if you have sensitive or fair skin. I spent years applying stinging chemical sunscreens to my overheated skin. Zinc oxide not only protects the skin but it is also soothing and calming, which can mean the difference between enjoying your tropical vacation or mid-summer marathon and sitting in an air-conditioned van while your family frolics in the surf. I speak from experience!!
Learning that the chemical sunscreens I applied all over my skin could actually bleach and kill coral has made me a lot more vigilant about what I am putting on my body. Raw Elements Eco Formulas are great sunscreens for active people that want serious protection. They are available online, in health food stores nationwide, and in quite a few surf and sports shops. Check out their website for more info!
Abi Mogge
