Raw Elements + Auctiv Sunscreen

We need sunscreen to protect us from skin cancer. Having protection that preserves our skin as well as us our oceans is crucial, something that we must be conscious of when purchasing this good. There can be tradeoffs in quality for organic products but for Raw Elements and Auctiv Sunscreens they are minimal. 

We like to use the Raw elements for our limbs, neck, back and also as a base layer for your face. The texture is thick but rubs into an oily paste when used. Is that a good thing ? We think so mainly because we don't get sun burnt while using the product. It will work for a two hour session in tropical sun conditions, but after that your skin will start to tan or burn, whichever comes first for you. It's smart to reapply after two hours. The smell is super rootsy. 

Auctiv face sticks are very water resistant screens that work well in water. Good for use on your face in all conditions but worked well when tested in Hawaii. They come in two flavors, vanilla and cocoa; white or brown. It has a very organic smell, almost addictive once its grown on you. We tend to like the brown color for face screen but whatever works for you. One thing we noticed was the cocoa stick leaves a gnarly brown residue in one’s fore head and random face crevices after using it. The sticks viscostiy is thick so you really have to apply it on there. If its below 60 degrees its hard to get on, inversely if its over 75 degrees the paste turns into liquid. 

NOAA scientists have clearly identified the detrimental effects of chemical sunscreen ingredients such as benzophenone and paraben and cinnimates on our coral reefs and suggest the use of zinc oxide based sunscreens for reef safety. Oxybenzone is mixed in more than 3,500 sunscreen products worldwide, including popular brands such as Coppertone, L’Oreal Paris, Headhunter, and Vertra.