Is Shade™ safe for everyone?
We’re delighted to share Shade founder Tania Wedin’s comprehensive sun safety guide!
Tania’s personal journey with Shade™
When I look back at my journey with Shade™, one thing becomes clear: Shade™ is not just an effective sunscreen; it’s a product that prioritises safety, sustainability, and user education. From its natural, edible ingredients to its commitment to reducing environmental impact, Shade™ stands out as a top choice for individuals looking for a safer sun protection option.
What makes Shade™ safe for everyone?
Shade™ All-Natural Sunscreen is formulated with ingredients so natural that they are edible. Coconut oil, shea butter, beeswax, and zinc oxide are all widely consumed or used in food products. This makes Shade™ not only safe for everyone but also less likely to cause harm if accidentally ingested.
The active ingredient in Shade™ is non-nano zinc oxide. Non-nano means that the zinc oxide particles are not small enough to pass into the skin, forming a protective barrier on the skin’s surface. This is considered safer for all skin types compared to chemical sunscreens, which may contain toxic ingredients like Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, and Avobenzone.
Shade™: A saviour for sunscreen and sun allergies
Where other sunscreens have failed people with sunscreen allergies or conditions like polymorphous light eruption (PMLE or sun allergy), Shade™ has been a saviour. Its natural ingredients and non-irritating formulation make it suitable for even the most sensitive skin types. This is a testament to Shade’s commitment to inclusivity and safety for all.
The responsibility of the user: A seatbelt analogy
Just like wearing a seatbelt is a personal responsibility when driving a car, using sunscreen requires awareness and responsibility from the user. Shade™ is the “seatbelt” that offers protection, but it’s up to the individual to use it correctly and understand its limitations.
If you’ve chosen to step out into the sun with Shade™ on, you’re acknowledging the need for protection. However, understanding the product, the environmental factors at play, and your own limits are essential. Ignoring warning signs, not reapplying as needed, or expecting sunscreen to provide 100% protection without other precautions is like ignoring the road rules while driving. Seat belts don’t cause accidents, and sunscreen doesn’t cause sunburns – it’s the misuse or misunderstanding of them that can lead to issues.
The vanity factor
One common complaint about mineral sunscreens like Shade™ is the white cast they can leave on the skin. While this may not be the most aesthetically pleasing look, it’s a small price to pay for effective sun protection. Vanity should not get in the way of proper sun safety. After all, we don’t complain about looking bulky when wearing a lifejacket, do we?
Understanding sun protection factor (SPF) and application
SPF25 means that it will take up to 25 times longer to burn when you use it than you would if you were to not use anything in the same environmental conditions. Many people think that by simply reapplying sunscreen frequently, they can stay in the sun longer. However, this is not the case.
What constitutes ‘adequate coverage’?
Approximately one shot glass full of sunscreen per average adult body is considered appropriate for full coverage in chemical sunscreens that absorb into the skin. However, Shade™ is denser and sits on top of the skin. As a result, you may not need as much for effective coverage. A pea-sized amount for the face and a golf ball-sized amount for the body are generally sufficient. Applying less than the recommended amount can significantly reduce the SPF, rendering it less effective.
Understanding UV Index and environmental factors
The UV index is an international standard measurement of the strength of the sunburn-producing ultraviolet (UV) radiation at a particular place and time. It’s a crucial tool for understanding sun exposure risks.
Check the UV Index: Always check the UV index before heading outdoors. A higher UV index indicates stronger UV radiation and a higher risk of sunburn. Plan outdoor activities when the UV index is lower, usually in the early morning or late afternoon.
Altitude: UV radiation increases by about 10% to 12% for every 1,000 meters (about 3,280 feet) you gain in elevation. If you’re planning activities at high altitudes, such as hiking or skiing, be extra vigilant about sun protection.
Reflective Surfaces: Water, snow, sand, and even grass can reflect UV radiation, increasing your overall exposure. Be mindful of these surfaces and take extra precautions when near them.
Benefits of Vitamin D and safe sun exposure
While it’s essential to protect ourselves from harmful UV rays, it’s also important to make sure we get enough Vitamin D. Vitamin D is crucial for healthy bone development and immune function. To strike a balance you can expose yourself to the sun during the early or late hours of the day when UV levels are lower. You can also limit sun exposure to short periods, gradually increasing as you become more accustomed to the sun.
Shade™ All-Natural Sunscreen
Shade™ All-Natural Sunscreen offers a safe and effective sun protection option for everyone. With its natural ingredients, non-nano zinc oxide formulation, and commitment to user education, Shade™ provides peace of mind for those concerned about sun exposure. However, it’s essential to remember that sunscreen is just one part of a comprehensive sun safety strategy. By following these tips and guidelines, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from the sun’s harmful rays while promoting overall health and well-being.
