THERE are a lot of conversations surrounding sunscreen and how, despite the protection it gives against skin cancer, some ingredients may enter the bloodstream and pose long-term health effects.
The ingredients are also unkind to the marine ecosystem, killing, among others, coral reefs.
But new players in the industry are bucking this trend, finding ways to protect the skin without harming other parts of the body, and nature as well.
Everyday Humans is one such brand.
"We make relatable SPF and body care. No fuss, no faff and no empty promises, just better basics for you every day, with good-for-you ingredients, eco-friendly packaging and ethical practices to keep your bathroom cabinet legit and responsible," the brand says.
The brand has a "Never List" of ingredients, substances that it keeps away from its products — paraben, sulphates, phthalates, mineral oil, artificial colouring and fragrances — and other notorious chemicals that are hazardous to skin and health.
"Our sunscreens are also free of oxybenzone, octinoxate and para-aminobenzoic acid, which are toxic to you and to coral reefs. What you get are clean, dermatologically-tested formulas that are safe and beneficial for your skin," the brand says.
EVERYDAY WEAR
The brand has two SPF30 sunscreens that are perfect for daily wear, and another with SPF50 for going out under the sun. And the recent Full Movement Control Order (FMCO) is a great time to try out the Resting Beach Face SPF30 Sunscreen Serum and the Rose S'il Vous Plait SPF30 Gentle Mineral Sunscreen.
The former is my instant favourite, with its superior texture. It glides on the face without a hint of stickiness and has a very soothing, light scent. I like its pump dispenser, instead of a tube, since you don't get the same amount with every squeeze.
The Resting Beach Face SPF30 has hyaluronic acid, spinach and green tea for moisturisation, and doubles up as a skin serum — perfect for those like me, who dislike layering too many products every morning.
I just use one product after my toner and I'm good to go. It's fast-absorbing and lightweight, leaving skin fresh with no greasy residue or white cast.
The Rose S'il Vous Plait SPF30 Gentle Mineral Sunscreen is clinically tested to not clog pores while safely shielding blemish-prone and oily skin.
My skin is dry (age is a factor) but this weightless, velvety-matte formula that leaves zero white or purple cast on skin works just as perfectly.
On top of sun protection, this one comes with rose extract and aloe water to restore skin moisture and sebum balance, and soothe any troubled spots. It also comes with vitamin E to nourish skin.
ADORABLE PACKAGING
On days when you spend longer hours in the sun, there's the Oh My Bod! SPF50 Body Sunscreen, a lightweight body lotion that provides SPF50 protection against UV rays and pollution.
I like it that the texture doesn't differ much from the other two.
This one is a quick-absorbing emulsion with a matte finish that shields skin and stays water resistant for up to 80 minutes.
The packaging deserves special mention. Made of recycled paper, the boxes are cute with sound advice to users, like not staying too long under the sun and waiting 15 to 20 minutes after application before going out.
There are also little badges that say "Parabens ain't got nothing on you", "Recycled materials always" and "Tested on humans, not bunnies" to highlight its skincare philosophy.
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