Sunlight is the richest source of vitamin D which plays a vital role in the body metabolising calcium necessary for strong healthy bones. Regular exposure to sunlight should therefore be viewed as vital to our health. The downside comes with the risk of burning and the harmful effects caused by the use of commercial suntan products.

Those with sensitive skin and in particular eczema sufferers often experience flare-ups after applying sun cream due to the way in which these products are formulated. They protect the body from the burning effects of the sun by absorbing UVA and UVB rays into the body and neutralising them with chemicals. These chemicals then form new compounds within the body which act as free-radicals exacerbating sensitive skin and promoting premature aging. Natural mineral sunblocks based on zinc oxide or titanium dioxide provide the skin with a protective layer impenetrable to the sun’s rays and therefore do not cause a free-radical reaction. They are safe on even the most sensitive of skins.

A sunblock should always be applied at least 15 minutes prior to sun exposure and topped-up regularly throughout the day. A bad case of sunburn can damage the skin for life and the effects of a burn continue to increase for 24 hours after the initial reaction. Minor cases of sunburn can be treated at home by taking a tepid shower and then liberally and frequently applying pure witch hazel floral water or essential oil of lavender diluted in a pure olive, coconut or rosehip seed oil base (10 drops of essential oil to each 15ml of carrier oil). More serious burns will require professional help. Never go back out into the sun until a burn has fully healed.

shop - Coconut Oil, Rosehip Seed Oil, Essential Care SPF8 Moisturising Sun Cream