As we gear up for warmer weather, many of us are thinking about how to protect our skin from the sun. However, did you know that some conventional sunscreens contain harmful toxins that can be absorbed into your bloodstream?
These chemicals can cause long-term illness and have even been found in breast milk.
Yikes!
Let's take a closer look at some of the most worrisome ingredients in sunscreen. Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Homosalate, Octisalate, Avobenzone, Parabens, and Fragrance have all been linked to various health concerns. In addition, some aerosol sunscreens contain volatile compounds and nanoparticles that can be dangerous if inhaled.
Unfortunately, this ingredient is a real cause for concern. It's an endocrine disruptor, which means it can mess with your body's natural hormones and interfere with important biological processes like growth, metabolism, and reproduction. Studies have even linked oxybenzone to lower testosterone levels in teenage boys (Scinicariello 2016) and an increased risk of endometriosis in females (Kunisue 2012). It's also been banned in Key West, Florida and Hawaii because it's harming marine and reef life, and the European Commission has criticized its safety risks.
Octinoxate, also known as Octyl methoxycinnamate, is another ingredient to watch out for in conventional sunscreens. It can be quickly absorbed through the skin and disrupts the endocrine system, affecting the thyroid and metabolism. Studies have linked it to reproductive and developmental toxicity issues in unborn babies. On top of that, it can also cause allergic skin reactions after exposure to UV light. It's already banned in Key West and Hawaii, alongside oxybenzone, because of its negative impact on aquatic life. So, if it's not safe for marine life, why should we use it on ourselves?
Homosalate can be a real pain in the skin, causing irritation and even allergic reactions, especially if you have sensitive skin. But that's not all - studies have shown that this ingredient could actually help breast cancer cells spread and invade. So if you're looking to protect yourself and your skin, it's best to steer clear of products containing homosalate.
“A recent opinion from the European Commission found that homosalate was not safe to use at concentrations up to 10 percent and recommended a maximum concentration of 1.4 percent, because of concerns for potential endocrine disruption (SCCS 2020). The FDA allows U.S. sunscreen manufacturers to use it in concentrations up to 15 percent.”
Octisalate has been linked to allergic contact dermatitis. This itchy rash can be caused by direct contact with the substance, so it's important to avoid if you have sensitive skin. On top of that, there are concerns that octisalate may have endocrine disrupting effects related to estrogen. What's more, this ingredient is absorbed by the skin at a rapid rate - in fact, it's 10 times faster than the FDA's cutoff for systemic exposure.
Avobenzone is an endocrine disruptor. That means it can mess with your body's hormones and do some serious harm. Studies have even shown that it can block the effects of testosterone. And if that wasn't bad enough, this ingredient can cause skin irritations, rashes, and allergic reactions. But wait, there's more! When exposed to sunlight or other elements, avobenzone can become even MORE dangerous. Researchers from the Lomonosov Moscow State University found that it can create hazardous chemicals when mixed with chlorinated water and UV rays - like when you’re swimming in an outdoor pool. Scary.
“The chemists discovered that avobenzone breaks down in the water forming organic compounds belonging to the classes of aromatic acids and aldehydes, phenols and acetyl benzenes. Phenols and chlorinated acetyl benzenes are the most toxic products. Acetyl benzenes, particularly chloracetophenone, enter into the composition of lachrymatory mixtures used in products like tear gas.”
Parabens have been banned in Europe since 2012, but the USA and Canada both consider these ingredients safe. Parabens are a type of preservative commonly used in cosmetic and personal care products to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold, but they have raised concerns about their safety. Parabens have been found to have estrogen-like properties, which can disrupt the body's hormonal balance and potentially lead to health issues. Some studies have linked parabens to breast cancer, and they can also cause skin irritation and allergies.
Fragrance is a common ingredient found in many cosmetics and skincare products, including our sunscreen. However, fragrance can be a health concern because it is typically made up of a mixture of chemicals, some of which can be harmful to our health.
The term "fragrance" on an ingredient label can be a bit misleading, as companies are not required to list all of the individual chemicals that make up the scent. This means that a single product can contain dozens or even hundreds of different chemicals, some of which may be toxic or allergenic and can contribute to a range of health issues such as allergies, respiratory irritation, and even hormone disruption.
Benzene has been found lurking in some sunscreens. It's a known carcinogen, which means it can cause cancer. The FDA says it's not safe to use in consumer products due to its high toxicity levels, yet here it is.
The latest victim of benzene contamination is Banana Boat Hair & Scalp Sunscreen. And it's not the first time benzene has been found hanging out in hair products, like dry shampoos.
Banana Boat has recalled the sunscreen, but we need to keep our eyes peeled for sneaky ingredients like this. They won't always be listed on the label, so we've got to rely on third party testing to keep us in the know.
While we’re already worried about the ingredients in our sunscreen, let’s not forget about the form it comes in. Sprays may seem like a convenient way to apply sunscreen, but did you know that they could actually harm your health?
That’s right! Aerosol sunscreens contain volatile compounds and tiny particles that can be dangerous if you inhale them.
So, if you do choose to use a spray sunscreen, it’s important to apply it in a well-ventilated area, and not in closed spaces like cars or tents. And, be sure to avoid spraying it too close to your face to prevent accidentally breathing it in.
A little trick to avoid inhaling it is to spray the product in your hands first and then apply it to your face, neck, and shoulders.
I know we've all been told to hide from the sun like it's a vampire and cover up each area that's exposed to the sun - but let's get real here. Our bodies need that sweet, sweet vitamin D that only the sun can provide. Sure, we don't want to fry ourselves to a crisp, but unprotected sun exposure is actually good for us.
Research shows that a lack of sunlight can lead to vitamin D deficiency, which can cause all sorts of health problems. So don't be afraid to step outside and soak up some rays!
According to Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2018, 15(12), research suggests that inadequate sun exposure may be associated with the development of "specific cancers, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, autism, Alzheimer's disease and age-related macular degeneration. Our conclusion is that non-burning UV exposure is a health benefit and—in moderation—should be recommended as such.”
So listen to your body! And try and give your body a fair chance at vitamin D production before covering up.
We tend to know when we’ve had a bit too much sun and it’s time to head to the shade or put on sunscreen. Be sure that you’re teaching your kids how to be in tune with those signs from their bodies as well.
Let's be real, the marketing tactics of these companies can be a bit shady (pun intended). They make it seem like their products are the best thing since sliced bread, but in reality, they're often filled with harmful chemicals that we don't want anywhere near our skin, let alone our kids' delicate skin.
Labels such as “gentle” and “sensitive” can be totally misguiding.
It's important to do your research and not just trust everything you see on the label. Don't fall for their sneaky marketing tactics and opt for safer, more natural alternatives.
If you're a sun lover like me, you know that it's tough to limit our time soaking up those warm rays. But fear not, my friend! If you're in need of some sunscreen, mineral-based options are the way to go. Especially if you're slathering it on your little ones - we gotta protect those precious cheeks!
Now, there are plenty of "natural" options out there, but don't get fooled by those sneaky marketing tactics. Do your own research, read those ingredient lists, and make sure you're really getting the good stuff.
But fear not! We've got options. Trust me, your skin will thank you for it!
Our favourites are:
What’s available to us in Ontario, will be different from what you can find in different areas.
To find safe products in available your area, whether you’re looking for sunscreen or other personal care products, we recommend using the Environmental Working Groups Skin Deep guide. This guide has statistics on over 90,000 products, and includes health scores, risks, and where to find them. It’s very helpful!
Here’s a link to the top health rated sunscreens on the EWG Website.
As a natural health advocate and a mom of tiny humans, I am seriously worried about the nasty stuff hiding in regular old sunscreen products. It's crazy to think that some of these chemicals, like endocrine disruptors and carcinogens, can actually make their way into our bloodstreams and even get passed down to our babies through breast milk.
We can take charge of our health and the environment by doing our research and choosing natural, safer sunscreen alternatives.
Let's not be fooled by fancy marketing tricks and always read those ingredient labels.
Cheers to being smart, informed, and protected!
