Sun Protection Factor (SPF) measures how well a product protects the skin from UVB rays, which cause sunburn. Equally harmful are UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute to premature aging.

According to research by Moan et al. (2015), unprotected sun exposure leads to oxidative stress, causing both immediate and long-term damage to the skin. Therefore, using effective sun protection is crucial during the summer.

Types of sun protection products: chemical, physical, and... natural?

There are three main approaches to sun protection:

1. Chemical filters - absorb UV rays through a chemical reaction (e.g., avobenzone, oxybenzone).

2. Physical (mineral) filters - reflect UV rays using zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

3. Avoiding the sun - staying in the shade or wearing protective clothing.

Despite their effectiveness, chemical sunscreens raise concerns. Some studies detect traces of these filters in the bloodstream, though in amounts considered safe (FDA, 2019). Therefore, currently, only zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are designated by the FDA as "Generally Recognized as Safe and Effective (GRASE)."

This prompts many to seek natural alternatives like raspberry seed oil or carrot seed oil - marketed as plant-based sunscreens.

Is it true?

Raspberry seed oil and SPF: myth or magic?

One of the most widespread myths in natural cosmetics is that raspberry seed oil has an SPF between 28 and 50. This claim stems from a scientific publication by Oomah et al. (2000), which analyzed the UV-absorbing properties of the oil in the laboratory.

• The study is in vitro, meaning it was not conducted on human skin.

• Only UVB and UVC absorption were measured, not UVA.

• The oil used was extracted with hexane, not cold-pressed or CO₂-extracted, as most commercial oils are.

• No standard SPF test was conducted.

The conclusion is that there are no clinical proofs that raspberry seed oil provides reliable sun protection. While it is beneficial for skin recovery after sun exposure, it should not be used as a primary sunscreen.

Carrot seed oil and SPF: another exaggerated claim

Carrot seed oil is also often mentioned as a "natural SPF" with an alleged value of SPF 38–40. This number comes from a study by Kapoor and Saraf (2009), but the devil is in the details.

• The tested product is a commercial sunscreen with multiple herbal ingredients, not just carrot.

• It is not specified whether oil, extract, or essential oil of carrot was used.

• There is no evidence that carrot seed oil alone provides such protection.

Like raspberry seed oil, claims of high SPF values for carrot seed oil are not supported by reliable clinical studies.

Do any oils have SPF?

Some oils like olive oil (SPF 7) or lavender essential oil (SPF 5) have been lab-tested for their ability to absorb UV rays (Kaur & Saraf, 2010).

BUT:

• Tests were not conducted on human skin.

• Isolated lab conditions were used.

• Results do not confirm real-world protection in daily use.

• Additional factors like skin type, product composition, carrier, and application method heavily influence SPF effectiveness, which are not reflected in the study.

Should we use oils as sunscreen?

In short — no. There is no essential or base oil with clinically proven effective broad-spectrum sun protection meeting modern safety standards.

However, oils have their place:

• Use essential oils post-sun exposure to soothe inflammation and oxidative stress.

• Add plant oils to your sunscreen to nourish the skin, but only in combination with zinc oxide or another approved filter.

Homemade sunscreens without clinical testing and homogenized ingredient distribution can give a false sense of security and inadvertently expose your skin to risks.

Safe alternatives for natural sun protection

If you're looking for natural sunscreen products:

• Choose mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide without nano-particles.

• Look for clean formulas with plant oils, but with clinically tested filters.

• Don't dismiss SPF just because of the white layer on the skin. Modern formulas are transparent and suitable for sensitive skin.

Natural after-sun formula (that actually works)
While oils are not sunscreens, they are excellent for skin recovery post-sun exposure.
Here's a recipe rich in antioxidants and soothing ingredients for after-sun (10 ml):

• 5 drops lavender essential oil

• 3 drops German chamomile essential oil

• 5 ml calendula oil

• 5 ml jojoba oil
  Apply after sun exposure to calm redness and restore skin balance.

Final thoughts: don't rely on plant oils for SPF

Despite popular blogs and viral posts, raspberry seed oil, carrot seed oil, and other oils are not substitutes for sunscreen.
Natural doesn't always mean safe or effective, especially when it comes to UV protection. Use proven sunscreens, enjoy essential oils for their other benefits, and take care of your skin wisely under the sun.