How To Add Sun Protection To Any Moisturizer

Running out of sunscreen can be a concern, especially outdoors. However, there is an alternative option you can use as a backup when you run out of sunscreen, which is using an oil that is high in SPF. 

SPF stands for sun protection factor, which measures the level of protection a product provides against UVB rays, the type of radiation that causes sunburn.

Oils high in SPF include raspberry seed oil, and carrot seed oil. These oils provide natural sun protection and can be added to your moisturizer or applied directly to the skin. 

It's important to note that while these oils can provide some level of protection, it's not a replacement for sunscreen, and you should apply them in addition to sunscreen and re-apply it often.

Raspberry seed oil is known to be light-weight and easily absorbed by the skin. It is also non-greasy and non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores and it's also beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin. 

It's also high in antioxidants, which can help to protect the skin from free radical damage and promote healthy skin. Some people may experience a slight tingling sensation when applying raspberry seed oil, but this is not harmful.

Carrot seed oil is known to be light-weight and easily absorbed by the skin. It is also non-greasy and non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores and it's also beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin. 

It's also high in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which can help to protect the skin from free radical damage and promote healthy skin. As with raspberry seed oil, some people may experience a slight tingling sensation when applying carrot seed oil, but this is not harmful. Additionally, it has a slight earthy smell that some people may not find appealing.

Zinc oxide is a physical sunscreen ingredient that can provide broad-spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB rays. The exact SPF of zinc oxide can vary depending on the concentration used in the product, but it typically ranges from SPF 15 to SPF 50. 

It is a mineral-based sunscreen agent that reflects UV rays away from the skin, which makes it a good alternative for people with sensitive skin or who are looking for a natural option. It's important to note that the SPF rating is based on the amount of zinc oxide that is in the product. 

The higher the concentration of zinc oxide the higher the SPF protection. Sunscreens with higher SPF provide more protection against sunburn caused by UVB rays.

When applying a moisturizer and SPF oil to the skin, it's important to follow a few basic steps to ensure that you're getting the most protection and benefits from both products.

1. Cleanse your skin: Begin by cleansing your skin to remove any dirt, oil, or makeup. This will help the moisturizer and SPF oil to absorb better into the skin.

2. Apply moisturizer: Next, apply your moisturizer to your face and neck, using your fingers to gently massage it into your skin. Make sure to use enough moisturizer to cover your entire face and neck.

3. Apply SPF oil: After your moisturizer has been absorbed into your skin, apply the SPF oil to your face and neck. Use your fingers or a cotton pad to gently massage the oil into your skin, making sure to cover your entire face and neck. Optional, you can add 3-4 drops of the raspberry or carrot seed oil directly to a peas-sized amount of moisturizer.

4. Re-apply as needed: It's important to remember to re-apply your moisturizer and SPF oil throughout the day as needed. Make sure to reapply every 2 hours or after sweating or swimming.

5. Apply sunscreen: As I previously mentioned, even though natural oils can provide some level of protection, it's not clear how much of the oil one would need to apply to get the same level of protection as with a sunscreen with a certain SPF. Additionally, sunscreens are tested for UVA and UVB protection where as natural oils are not. It's important to use sunscreen in addition to natural oils for the best sun protection.

Yes, you can add UV-protecting oils to any moisturizer. However, it is essential to note that not all oils have the same level of UV protection. Some oils, such as coconut and olive oil, do not provide significant UV protection. 

Other oils, like raspberry seed oil and carrot seed oil, are known to have high levels of UV protection. It is also important to note that adding an oil to your moisturizer does not replace the need for sunscreen. Sunscreen is still the most effective way to protect your skin from UV damage.