The Scoop on Sunscreen
Jul 20, 2026
It's the time of year where you are most likely spending more of your days outside, soaking up the heat and light that this time of year offers in abundance. While there are so many benefits from time outside, we also know that too much sun exposure can be dangerous.
Let's talk Sunscreen! It seems like the solution to not having damaged skin be an unfortunate souvenir from the summer, but there are some important considerations when we look at it through the lens of Ayurveda.
Ancient and indigenous cultures have long used natural materials like oils and plants to create barriers for the skin so it doesn't get over exposed and burn. Modern, chemical sunscreens, and the concept of SPF, were only developed in the 20th century. It has turned from something that nourishes your skin to something that is often ultimately toxic for the body, marine life, and environment.
While sunscreen has its time and place, there are some important things we need to consider before applying it constantly to our skin all summer long. Choose wisely!
Ayurveda teaches us that whatever we put on our skin gets absorbed into the body, so the general rule is: Don't put anything on your skin that you wouldn't put in your mouth.
If you know you are going to be out in the sun for an extended period of time, it is better to cover your skin with clothing and wear a hat, rather than slather chemicals all over you. Even if you are swimming, wear a long sleeve swim shirt or dress (I personally love my swim dress).
Use mineral sunscreen whenever possible. Chemical sunscreens are more comfortable to wear and absorb UV rays, while mineral sunscreens sit heavier on the skin and reflect UV rays. Mineral sunscreens mostly use zinc oxide which is white and chalky, but they are safer for you and the environment. Currently there are some newer sunscreens that are made from grass fed beef tallow, zinc oxide, and jojoba.
Make sure your sunscreen is reef-safe. If it isn't, the ingredients will damage the marine environment.
As always, do what you can, where you are, with what you have. Make the best choice in each moment.
Next week, we will explore how the skin responds to diet, and is affected by dosha, in the summertime.
May you be deeply nourished. May you be at peace. May you be safe. May your heart be filled with joy.
Namaste!
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