Since we are approaching Memorial Day weekend, the unofficial start of summer, I thought I’d repost this from a couple of years ago. Sun protection is important but you want it to be nontoxic to both you and the environment. Here’s a quick refresher on what to look for and what to avoid.
It’s that time of year again when we are bombarded with messages about sun safety and the need for daily sunscreen. That refrain has become a little dissonant lately though with more and more people questioning the ingredients in their sunscreen, with good reason. That ‘protective’ layer can house some awfully hazardous chemicals that have actually started to be researched as potential causes of cancer themselves, as well as having other undesirable qualities such as hormone disruptors, allergy-causing, and skin penetration. To review the specific chemicals and their risk factors, according to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), check out the graph located in their article here. They list oxybenzone as the most hazardous chemical in sunscreens, so it is a good idea to double check that at least that one chemical is not in any of your sunscreen products.
The alternative to chemical sunscreens is mineral based sunscreens which are considered safer. Jessica Rubino, in her article for Delicious Living, explains mineral sunscreens in this way:
Mineral sunscreens use active mineral ingredients, such as zinc oxide and titanium oxide. They reflect the sunβs rays like a mirror to protect exposed skin.
UV protection
When buying sunscreen, protection from UV rays should be your top consideration. In that sense, mineral options take the prize, according to the EWG. Zinc oxide, in particular, delivers the best UVA and UVB protection (also known as broad-spectrum coverage), says Leiba. βMineral active ingredients donβt break down as readily in the sun, offering greater protection for longer.β
Ingredient safety
Generally speaking, naturally derived ingredients used in mineral sunscreens are gentler than chemicals. Still, some considerations remain. Avoid titanium dioxide in powder or spray form; the EWG claims itβs linked to toxicity when inhaled. Also, itβs worth reading up on nanotechnology, which creates tiny particles that are often used in mineral sunscreens to make them easier to rub in. Since labeling regulations of nanoparticles donβt exist yet, ask manufacturers directly about their policies. EWG maintains that nano in sunscreen is safe, but research continues.Β (There do exist non-nano mineral sunscreens, such as the one from Babo Botanicals below.)
Appearance
Other than those that use nanoparticles, mineral sunscreens simply donβt rub into skin as well, often leaving a white film. In the quest for mineral sunscreens that apply more evenly, someΒ companies are trying non-nano ingredients, such as an aloe base and ZinClear, a zinc oxide. If you choose a safe mineral classic, expect to take an extra minute to rub it in.
In another article from Delicious Living, the following nine sunscreens were given the safety rating of 1 (safest!) by the EWG. Compare that to oxybenzone which has an 8 (out of 10) rating and it’s clear these mineral sunscreens are a far safer bet. That being said, I do want to point out that from what I have read and also gathered from my naturopath, people really need half an hour of sun on their faces and bare arms every day, without sunscreen, for proper amounts of vitamin D. Here in the Pacific Northwest, as well as other places around the country and world, proper amounts of vitamin D are not even possible without supplementation because of the lack of sun for many months out of the year. Vitamin D is important for immunity, skin, bone, and mental health, and blood pressure concerns, plus a lack of vitamin D has been implicated in breast cancer and prostate cancer, as well as many other chronic health conditions. Keep this in mind when determining your sunscreen usage. It’s not only important to choose your ingredients wisely, but also to know how to use your products to ensure optimal health. The following are listed alphabetically:
With well-rounded complexion protection, Andalouβs BB product not only uses minerals to shield from harmful rays but also to lend a subtle, βsun-kissedβ tint to skin. Fruit stem cells and superfruits provide an antiaging and brightening boost, too.
Containing 20 percent non-nano zinc oxide and a cocktail of nourishing botanicals to sooth the skin (think avocado oil and cocoa seed butter), this new launch a clear winner in safe sun care, and the EWG rating agrees.
Badger continues to raise the bar for safe sun care, this time focusing on developing effective nontoxic preservatives specifically for mineral sun care. Badger’s line includes products for the whole family; this easy-to-apply face stick contains 22.5 percent zinc oxide for superior active lifestyle protection.
A brand that has rightfully earned the trust of moms, California Baby once again delivers on baby-centric safety, according to the EWG. Ideal for little ones, this fragrance-free product offers a comfortable application that is also sting-free for the eyes (moms can use it as a gentle-on-the-complexion option, too).
A go-to for anyone seeking daily, no-fuss sun protection, this product contains an efficacious blend of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide in a base of soothing aloe leaf juice, shea butter and coconut oil. Plus, itβs organic. A great choice for your bodyβand the earth.
Another extra-gentle, excellent choice for babies, this product complements its UV-protective mineral blend with soothing chamomile and sunflower oil.
Sun protection is your No. 1 defense against aging. But extra protection is a major boon. Top-rated by the EWG for its UV protection, this SKU also contains vitamins E and D3 for antiaging prowess.
Tailor-made for an active and beautiful lifestyle: Protect with chemicals, support with plant extracts, antioxidants and vitamins.
Mineral Fusion knows what skin needsβand the company is no stranger to delivering it with carefully crafted mineral formulations. This product starts with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, then gives skin a vitamin and antioxidant boost.
In short, avoid chemical sunscreens, especially ones with oxybenzone in them, and instead opt for mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium oxide. Also, if you must use a spray sunscreen, only use ones made with zinc oxide, not titanium oxide, because the EWG lists it as unsafe when inhaled in that form. Enjoy the sunΒ and please subscribe for weekly posts about herbs, natural health, and green beauty, and please share with anyone who might benefit from this article.
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