One of the natural sunscreens utilized throughout history is tree dust, also known as bloom, and may be found on certain trees, such as aspens. Even though this approach does include some truth, it is essential to take into consideration its limitations:
Low sun protection factor (SPF): Research indicates that tree dust might offer some sun protection, but it is not even close to the protection provided by commercial sunscreens.
According to research, tree dust’s sun protection factor (SPF) is only about 5, which is considered a shallow level of protection against the potentially damaging effects of the sun’s rays by scientific standards.
To put this into perspective, most commercial sunscreens have a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30, and some give even higher levels of protection.
It is important to remember that the sun protection factor (SPF) measures the degree of protection against ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation, which is the primary cause of sunburn. On the other hand, it does not consider UVA rays, which can harm the skin and contribute to aging.
Currently, many commercial sunscreens provide broad-spectrum protection, which indicates that they shield the skin from UVB and UVA radiation.
Tree dust may provide some protection from the sun, but it is not a reliable substitute for taking the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
Tree dust may provide some protection from the sun, but it is not a reliable substitute for taking the necessary precautions to protect yourself. When spending time outside, sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF) and broad-spectrum protection is still essential and should be reapplied regularly.
In addition, wearing protective clothes and seeking shade during peak sun exposure can reduce the risk of skin damage.
Uneven Application: Applying tree dust is messy and complicated to obtain even coverage, resulting in certain parts being exposed.
Unknown Components: The precise components of tree dust and the allergies or irritants they may cause on the skin are not entirely understood.
Although tree dust might provide some protection from the sun in an emergency, it is not a reliable or safe alternative to the sunscreen available in stores. When it comes to sun protection, it is recommended to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or greater, to reapply the sunscreen every two hours, and to seek shade during the hours of 10 am to 4 pm when the sun is at its strongest.
Even though tree dust could offer some degree of protection from the sun, it is not a suitable replacement for taking the necessary precautions to protect yourself. Commercial sunscreens are essential to any sun protection practice because they significantly increase their levels of protection against UVB and UVA radiation.
