Collection: Sunblocks Aftersun Care
Our sunblocks are made using the same skin-loving formula as our everyday body lotions, however we have replaced the oil component with Red Raspberry Seed Oil and a 20% Zinc Oxide. The same goes for our lip balms, raspberry oil and zinc oxide make up the bulk of the formula. Skinny Dips and Camping Trips is designed for use by the whole family, even the little ones. Our men's based formula; Off Road has been created with the same sunblock protection, however we have adjusted the lotion to reflect different lifestyles. Off Road contains a plant-based silicone replacement that leaves behind an incredible matte finish that won't attract dust and dirt. Suitable for the workshop and job-site as well as at home when you're mowing lawns or danging around on the weekends getting grubby and don't want to end up "fluffy" because everything you touch sticks to you. A common reason why most men avoid using sun protection.
Let us explain why we like Zinc Based Sunblocks and why is it so important to use Sun Protection to start with?
Why do we need Sun Protection?
Protecting yourself from sun exposure is crucial to prevent skin cancer - the most common cancer in Australia - caused by DNA damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Effective protection reduces the risk of melanoma, premature aging (wrinkles, blotchiness and sun spots) and serious eye damage. Using sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and shade is vital to combat high UV levels.
Over 95% of skin cancers are caused by exposure to UV radiation. Protecting skin lowers the risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma and the dangerous melanoma. Sun exposure also damages collagen and elasticity, leading to "photoageing," which causes wrinkles, sagging and "leather-like" skin texture. Even without burning, UV radiation causes "sunspots" (scaly lesions) that can turn into skin cancer.
Why do we like Zinc Based Sunblocks?
We prefer zinc-based sunblock (a mineral sunscreen) over traditional chemical sunscreen for its immediate effectiveness, safety for sensitive skin and its environmental profile. Zinc Oxide acts as a physical shield to reflect UV rays, rather than absorbing then like chemical filters.
Immediate Protection
Zinc-based, or mineral, sunblocks provide protection immediately upon application. Chemical sunscreens often require about 20 minutes to absorb into the skin and become effective.
Ideal for Sensitive/Acne-Prone Skin
Zinc oxide is less likely to cause allergic reactions, stinging or irritation compared to chemical sunscreen ingredients like oxybenzone or avobenzone. Oxybenzone absorbs UV rays and converts them to heat however studies suggest that it may act as a hormone disruptor and potential carcinogen. It is known to penetrate the skin and has been detected in bloody, urine and breast milk. Avobenzone is an oil-soluble ingredient that absorbs UVA rays and converts it to heat energy. It's issue lays in it's instability and the fact that is degrades under sunligh, losing 50%-90% of its efficacy within an hour of exposure. It has been known to cause allergic reactions and it is being investigated as a potential endocrine disruptor.
Broad Spectrum Coverage
Zinc provides excellent, stable protection against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays.
Reef-Safe
Zinc oxide is widely considered safe for coral reefs whereas many chemical sunscreens contain ingredients that are harmful to marine life and ecosystems.
Better Stability
As a mineral, zinc oxide is inherently stable and does not break down quickly in the sun, unlike a lot of chemical filters that need far more frequent application to stay efficient.
Why do we use Red Raspberry Seed Oil in our Sunblocks?
According to research raspberry seed oil can absorb both UVA and UVC sun rays. UVA rays have the longest wavelengths and penetrate deep into the skin, contributing to premature aging, wrinkles and some skin cancers. UVC rays are the most dangerous type, however we don't really have to worry about them because they are completely filtered out by the Earth's atmosphere and do not actually reach the ground. It doesn't however absorb any of the the UVB rays that cause skin to burn, which is why we use it as a complimentary ingredient alongside our Zinc Oxide.
Natural Antioxidant Protection
Red raspberry seed oil is high in antioxidants, which help to protect the skin against UVB-induced damage, combat free-radicals and reduce inflammation
Moisturising & Non-Comedogenic
It is a lightweight oil that deeply moisturises the skin without clogging pores, making it ideal for maintaining skin hydration during sun exposure
Anti-Aging Benefits
Regular use can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by promoting natural water retention in skin cells
Alternative UV Protection
Studies suggest that natural oils, including red raspberry seed oil, can off a degree of UV protection (with SPF values varying based upon the oil), whilst we don't rely on this as a fact it has been proven that red raspberry seed oil can offer a UVA protection rating of SPF 8.
We don't advocate that raspberry seed oil should be used as a stand-alone sunscreen however we do think it makes a pretty awesome complimentary ingredient to our Zinc Oxide that when used at a total volume of 20% provides an SPF of 25-35 which is ample for standard daily protection.
Our Off-Road (which is designed for those that spend a lot of time in the sun due to work for example those out on job-sites, truckies who often find one arm obtains a lot of sun damage from leaning on the window or athletes that train outdoors, is formulated using a 25% Zinc Oxide. This leaves a slightly paler shadow on the skin but provides an SPF of between 40 to 50.
Whilst we have 2 separate formulas, both are suitable for the whole family, depending on the situation or what you're up to that day. Zinc Oxide is also perfectly safe for babies too, it is recommended by paediatricians that babies under 6 months aren't exposed to sun or sun protection, however there are no known side effects so if you want to err on the side of caution you won't hurt bubba, check with your GP though if you're unsure.
Why do we call them Sunblocks not Sunscreens and why isn't the SPF listed on the label?
Well, for two reasons, firstly because that's what Zinc Oxide does, it blocks the rays and deflects them away from you instead of absorbing them. The second reason is that for a product to be legally labelled as a Sunscreen in Australia it has to be listed on the Australian Register or Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) and undergo all sorts of expensive tests and then as a manufacturer we have to pay for the privilege.
This would cost us $1,500 AUD each time we had to submit the original formula as well as each formula change and then $1,000 AUD each year to keep calling it a sunscreen and making SPF claims.
With the recent amounts of recalls of sunscreens in Australia we aren't so sure that relying on Mother Nature and science isn't more effective than a government department that could potentially be 'bought' by a company that has enough money to pay for the labelling claim as even though it is a government department it is self-funded, but that is a whole other debate for a whole other day!
Instead we just tell you what's in it and you can decide for yourself... For a little more info on the science behind Zinc Sunblocks try this article as a good starting point...
(incoming bad mum joke warning) In short; when it comes to sunblocks, we've got you covered... get it?