Saturday, May 2, 2009

What is the SPF of Avocado Oil?

In the last post I wrote about avoiding sunburn. A while ago now, I came across interesting information that gave the SPF (sun protection factor) of some natural substances.

Avocado Oil - SPF 6- 8
Avocado oil was used by some ancient civilizations as a skin moisturizer. It is great for repairing body tissue and maintenance of healthy skin because it is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a good antioxidant. It is absorbed easily by the skin and does not clog the pores.

Red Raspberry Seed Oil - SPF 28-50
Because it provides a lipid barrier, raspberry provides skin protection and helps the skin retain moisture. It is high in Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids.

Shea Butter or African Karite Butter - SPF 6

Sesame Oil - SPF 4
Sesame oil is stable and has a good shelf life. In India it is used as a massage oil because it helps reduce skin aging. It soothes and softens the skin.

Vitamin C and the Sun
A researcher, Dr Williams, discovered that it is possible to gain some sun protection from making a 10% solution of vitamin C. Use pure ascorbate or ascorbic acid for this. Make a 10% solution of vitamin C powder and water. Spray it on your skin 10-15 minutes before going in the sun. Continue to apply it liberally while in the sun. I have used this myself. It does work but only if you keep reapplying it frequently. Dr Williams found that it also works to make the solution out of aloe vera gel.

These ideas may not remove the need for sunscreen on all occasions, but they are alternatives that may be suitable for some people in some situations. They certainly give some different ideas that you might feel are worth checking into.

Have fun

Jocelyn

3 comments:

  1. would love to know where you found these SPF ratings - I'd like to verify them

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  2. I agree with Sharon. Would love a link to the source.

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  3. Yes link source would be great. Also ok vit C protects against sun, but could it give you age spots or else too?

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