Tree dust, also known as bloom, is present on some trees, such as aspens, and has long been utilized as a natural sunscreen. This method has some truth, but it is necessary to acknowledge its limitations.
Low SPF: Studies show that, while tree dust may provide some sun protection, it falls far short of the protection offered by commercial sunscreen.
According to research, tree dust has an SPF of just about 5, considered a shallow level of protection against the harmful effects of the sun’s rays.
In comparison, most commercial sunscreens have an SPF of at least 30, with some providing considerably higher levels of protection.
It’s worth noting that SPF assesses the level of protection against UVB rays, which are the leading cause of sunburn. However, it does not account for UVA radiation, which can cause skin damage and contribute to skin aging.
Many commercial sunscreens now provide broad-spectrum protection, blocking UVB and UVA rays.
Furthermore, wearing protective clothes and seeking shade during peak sun hours might help lower the risk of UV-induced skin damage.
While tree dust may provide some sun protection, it is not a viable substitute for proper sun protection methods. It is still critical to use sunscreen with a high SPF and broad-spectrum protection and to reapply it frequently when spending time outside.
Furthermore, wearing protective clothes and seeking shade during peak sun hours might help lower the risk of UV-induced skin damage.
Uneven Application: Applying tree dust is messy and complicated to spread evenly, exposing certain sections.
Unknown Ingredients: The specific components of tree dust and their potential allergies or skin irritants are not fully recognized.
While tree dust can provide some sun protection in a pinch, it is not a dependable or safe substitute for commercial sunscreen. For the best sun protection, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more, reapply every two hours, and seek shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m.-4 p.m.).
While tree dust may give some sun protection, it is not a substitute for adequate sun protection methods. Commercial sunscreens provide significantly higher levels of protection against UVB and UVA radiation, making them an essential part of any sun protection regimen.
