5 tips for natural sun protection against sunburn

Summer is here and we are enjoying the golden yellow happiness on the horizon again, which warms us, gives us positive energy, makes us produce vitamin D and bronzes our skin beautifully. But that big, warm sun can also do some damage, especially to your skin. For example, high concentrations of UVA rays can cause (serious!) damage to the deep skin layers and are responsible for wrinkles. So be kind to your skin and take advantage of our five tips to naturally protect it from sunburn.

1. In the shade between 11am and 3pm

Depending on your skin type and the strength of the sun, you should move to a shady spot between 11am and 3pm. This is when the strength of the sun is at its highest. It is also a good idea to wear skin-covering (white) clothing, wear a hat and sit under a parasol. 

2. Use a natural lip balm with protection factor

Don't forget your lips! Use a lip balm with a protective factor, like the nourishing natural lip balm from Highland Soap Co. with moisturising shea butter. It prevents dry lips and burning of your lips. It keeps them optimally hydrated. 

3. Choose coconut oil as natural sunscreen

Coconut oil (and olive oil) have been found to provide sun protection with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of between 4 and 8. That's not very high, so regular application is recommended. As far as we are concerned, that is completely OK, because apart from the fact that organic, extra virgin coconut oil is a pure natural product, it also cares for the skin, prevents it from drying out and does not close off the pores. 

4. Aloe vera helps to soothe sunburn 

Already suffering from a mild sunburn? Apply a layer of pure gel, extracted from the inside of an aloe vera leaf, to the burnt skin. This gel hydrates tired skin, has a cooling effect, soothes and regenerates. Aloe Vera also helps to soothe skin irritations and insect bites, is hypoallergenic, soft and non-greasy and absorbs quickly into the skin. If you do not have an aloe vera plant at home, look for an organic 100% aloe vera gel.

5. Avoid alcohol and drink a lot of water

Sun and alcohol are not the best match. Alcohol causes blood vessels to dilate, which can cause your skin to burn more quickly. In addition, alcohol draws moisture from your body, causing your skin to dry out more quickly, which in turn leads to faster aging. Alcohol can also cause your body to dry out. Drink plenty of pure water to keep your head cool and your body hydrated.