Sunday Swap: Clean, Non-Toxic Sunscreen
Spring Break and sunnier weather is just around the corner so this week’s Sunday Swap is sunscreen! Sunscreen has been a large topic of conversation in the non-toxic , clean world since the FDA released that the main active ingredients in most sunscreens were found to be highly endocrine disrupting and can actually make our bodies more susceptible to sunburn. This post will help you confidently shop for a non-toxic sunscreen to make a better choice for your health!
Chemical vs. Mineral Sunscreens
Chemical Sunscreens
Chemical sunscreens typically have one of 4 common active ingredients : Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Avobenzone, Homosalate.
The active ingredients in chemical formulas are absorbed into the skin. Once UVA/UVB rays are absorbed into the skin the chemicals in the sunscreen create a reaction that converts the UV light into heat. The heat then dissipates from the skin.
Chemical sunscreens are known to contain endocrine disrupting chemicals that cause a variety of reproductive issues. They are detrimental to the environment and wreak havoc on coral reefs and ocean ecosystems.
Mineral Sunscreens
Mineral sunscreens use 2 main active ingredients: Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide.
These mineral ingredients sit on the surface of the skin and provide a physical barrier blocking UV rays from penetrating the skin. They work so much better at protecting your skin!
Mineral sunscreens are much more effective at protecting the skin against sunburn and damage because UV rays are not absorbed. They get a bad rep due to the slight white cast that can be left on the skin. Because they provide a physical barrier, you need much less sunscreen which makes it rub in much better.
Ingredients to avoid in sunscreens
4 common Active Ingredients to Avoid
OxYBENZONE
Oxybenzone is found in the majority of chemical sunscreens and is one the most toxic ingredients too. It has been detected in the body for weeks after application.
Oxybenzone is easily absorbed into the skin and the bloodstream. It is a huge endocrine disruptor and has been linked to a variety of hormonal issues including increased infertility, decreased sperm viability, reproductive development problems. It is also a known carcinogen linked to breast cancer.
OCtinoxate
Octinoxate is a UV filter that is absorbed into the skin. It is an endocrine disruptor that mimics hormones within the body. It is linked to thyroid issues and also has negative effects on sea life.
Homosalate
Homosalate is another hormone disruptor that increases the permeability of your skin meaning chemicals are more easily absorbed. The recommended concentration of Homosalate in sunscreens is 1.4%, most sunscreens have concentrations as high as 10%.
Avobenzone
Avobenzone is an endocrine disruptor that mimics testosterone. It is highly allergenic and can contribute to skin issues. It is not effective on its own as an active sunscreen ingredient. Without another stabilizing ingredient, avobenzone breaks down in sunlight and makes your skin susceptible to a burn.
Other Ingredients to Avoid
As with many other personal care products, sunscreens can contain Fragrance, Phthalates, and Parabens which are endocrine disrupting, allergenic, and skin irritants.
What to look for in a Clean sunscreen?
Purchase Sunscreens with Zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide as the active ingredients
Avoid Any of the following ingredients : Avobenzone, oxybenzone, octinoxate, homosalate, fragrance, Parfum
Look for Paraben -Free, Phthalate Free
Look for a water resistant formula
Higher SPFs are not necessarily better , Opt for a SPF 30 or 50 formula
No Spray Formulas- it is easy to miss spots on your body and they contain environmental pollutants.
My Favorite Mineral Sunscreens
All these options are synthetic fragrance-free, Paraben free, reef-safe and are free of chemical sunscreen actives.
Mychelle Sun Shield SPF 28 Coconut
This is one of my favorite face sunscreens. It blends in well and leaves no white cast! Mychelle also sells other sunscreens that are great too!
Drunk Elephant
This is another great face sunscreen option. It blends in well and is fragrance free! They also offer a tinted sunscreen option.
Bare Republic Mineral Gel
Bare Republic has several mineral sunscreen options. This one has a slightly blue color to it that helps it blend into skin, leaving no white cast.
Coola Organic Mineral Sunscreen
Coola mineral sunscreens are a great option for body or face use. They blend in well and have a slight natural coconut scent.
The Environmental Working group is a great resource to refer to when shopping sunscreens. You can use their database to search for safe sunscreen brands.
Sunshine is so essential for our physical, mental, and emotional health. Go outside and get some vitamin D! Use mineral sunscreen when you are going to have long, intense periods of sun exposure!