The Future of Sunscreen Ingredients

We’re into the swing of December, and unless you’re hitting the blinding-white and snowy slopes, sunscreen is probably the last thing on your mind. But manufacturers of this sunny-day staple are unveiling the nine new ingredients that could make up the next big thing: natural sunscreen. Typically packed with chemicals and minerals, sunscreen is infamous for irritated skin and burning eyes. Will this more organic approach to UV protection give sunbathers a break while still protecting their skin? The ingredients you find on the back of your SPF may include:

Golden serpent fern: Recorded to ease skin inflammation, this tropical plant shows sun-protection potential. Its antioxidants also help fight the effects of UV exposure. The golden serpent fern may be especially beneficial for those with light complexions.
Green tea: Iced tea in your glass, and green tea on your skin! This addition to sunscreen can maintain the skin’s elasticity. Drinking green tea can also reduce UVB skin damage.
Propolis: Also known as beeswax extract, this resin-like material comes from the buds of cone-bearing trees. A 16% concentration of propolis has been recorded to provide an SPF-20.
Strawberries: This sweet summer treat is rich in antioxidants and provides great skin care benefits. With the ability to protect against UV radiation and reduce damage done to DNA by the sun, strawberries have been recorded as one of the most nutrient-dense fruits.
Caffeine: That’s right – coffee can rejuvenate your skin and your energy! Drinking coffee may actually aid in the fight against UV-related skin cancer as well. Topically, caffeine can reduce inflammation and cellulite.
Reservatrol: As one of Private Label Supplement’s biggest sellers, this antioxidant-rich extract aids in cancer prevention, and may help prevent UVA and UVB damage caused by excessive sun exposure.
Lycopene: The main antioxidant in tomatoes, this addition to sunscreen will decrease inflammation, and protect against the growth of a tumor-promoting enzyme, sunburn, and sun-induced aging effects.
Turmeric: This unique spice will fight against skin-damaging free radicals. It will also tame inflammation, and may even prevent sun-related skin aging. The photo-protective qualities of turmeric will work together with increased sebum production for hydrated and restored skin.
Blue-green algae: This bright infusion of antioxidants, chlorophyll, B vitamins, and fatty acids also has potential to protect against UV rays and solar radiation.