Protecting your skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation is essential for preventing sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. However, not all sunscreens are created equal and some contain ingredients that can harm your health and the environment. Let’s review the reasons behind avoiding certain sunscreen ingredients and look at healthier alternatives.
Ingredients to Avoid
Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3)
Oxybenzone is a chemical UV filter that has been linked to hormone disruption in humans. It can mimic estrogen, potentially interfering with the endocrine system. Studies have shown that oxybenzone can penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream, leading to concerns about its long-term health effects.
Oxybenzone is also highly toxic to juvenile corals and other marine life. It contributes to “increased susceptibility to bleaching; DNA damage (genotoxicity); abnormal skeleton growth (via endocrine disruption); and gross deformities of baby coral.” [1]
Octinoxate (Octyl Methoxycinnamate)
Octinoxate is another chemical UV filter known for its hormone effects on the metabolic system and affects thyroid hormone production. It is also readily absorbed into the skin. Octinoxate also damages marine ecosystems, including coral bleaching. [2]
Octocrylene
Octocrylene can penetrate the skin and has been linked to skin allergies. It also generates free radicals when exposed to sunlight, contributing to cellular damage and aging. Octocrylene can accumulate in the environment, posing risks to aquatic ecosystems.
Additional Ingredients to Avoid
Homosalate is a weak hormone disruptor, and sunlight breaks down the chemical into harmful byproducts.
Avobenzone is a common non-mineral filter used for UVA protection in broad-spectrum sunscreens, often paired with stabilizers due to its instability in sunlight. However, it can be found in levels significantly exceeding the FDA’s systemic exposure limit and can cause allergic reactions. Additionally, Avobenzone may disrupt the endocrine system, blocking testosterone effects in cellular studies.
Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A Palmitate) can break down into free radicals when exposed to sunlight, which may increase the risk of skin damage and cancer. It is also known to speed up the development of skin tumors and lesions when applied to the skin in the presence of sunlight. “A panel of independent scientists convened by the NTP on January 26 unanimously confirmed the study’s conclusion that retinyl palmitate “enhanced the photocarcinogenic activity” of sunlight (NTP 2011).”
Healthier Alternatives for You and the Planet
Let’s explore sunscreen ingredients that don’t harm us or our planet.
Zinc Oxide
Zinc Oxide is a mineral-based sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection by reflecting UV rays away from the skin. It is non-toxic and does not penetrate the skin, making it safe for long-term use. Zinc Oxide, if not nano-sized particles (or micronized), is considered reef-safe and does not harm marine ecosystems.
Titanium Dioxide
Like Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide is a physical sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection. It is stable in sunlight and unlikely to cause skin irritation. Titanium Dioxide, if not nano-sized particles (or micronized), is also reef-safe and poses minimal risk to aquatic life.
Check out our selection of sunscreen for skin and lips.
Along with using Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide sunscreens, consider using a sun umbrella, wearing a wide-brimmed hat, and opting for lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants. Enjoy safely playing in the sun!
Sources
[1] https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/news/sunscreen-corals-noaa-studies.html
[2] https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/news/sunscreen-corals.html
https://www.ewg.org/sunscreen/report/the-trouble-with-sunscreen-chemicals/
https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/sun-protection/shade-clothing-sunscreen/what-to-wear-protect-skin-from-sun