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What’s in Your Sunscreen?

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Conventional sunscreens are effective at protecting against sunburn, and reducing the likelihood of skin cancer in later life. However there are increasing concerns about their potential negative effects on health and the environment: there are good reasons to question what’s in your sunscreen and the possible health risks of its ingredients.

 

We know sunscreen chemicals do not just stay on the skin. Sunscreen ingredients have been detected in urine, plasma, and even breast milk, confirming they are absorbed through the skin into the body. Various studies have found that chemicals in sunscreens can persist on the skin and in the blood for weeks after their last use. As they say, “What goes on the skin, goes in”.

 

Conventional sunscreens may pose several health risks: There can be short-term effects, like allergic reactions, acne and skin irritation, as well as long-term effects, such as hormone disruption or reproductive harms. Knowing this, you would think that companies that make sunscreens should be required to test them for their impact on human health. Unfortunately, this is not usually the case! In 2021 the US Food and Drug Administration reviewed 16 common ingredients used in sunscreen. Out of the 16 constituents reviewed, only two (titanium dioxide and zinc oxide) were classified as GRAS: Generally Recognized As Safe. 

 

Some studies suggest that certain chemical sunscreen ingredients may have carcinogenic properties. The potential for these chemicals to generate free radicals and cause oxidative stress is a concern for long-term health.

 

Here are some of the most problematic chemical ingredients in sunscreens:

  • Oxybenzone is used to absorb UV radiation, but has been linked to hormonal disruptions and allergic reactions. It can penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream, potentially causing systemic effects.

  • Octinoxate is another UV absorber that may cause hormonal imbalances. It can affect both the thyroid and reproductive systems and may cause allergic reactions.

  • Homosalate stabilizes other sunscreen ingredients, but can accumulate in the body and disrupt hormones.

  • Avobenzone provides UVA protection, but is unstable and can degrade in sunlight, potentially forming free radicals that may ultimately damage the skin.

     

Conventional sunscreens also raise environmental issues:

Ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate cause bleaching of coral reefs, and hinder the growth and reproduction of marine life. Sunscreen chemicals can wash off during swimming and enter water systems, affecting aquatic life and accumulating in fish and other organisms, leading to broader ecological consequences and impacting the entire food chain. Some areas have banned these ingredients to protect marine ecosystems.

 

Natural sunscreens, with mineral-based ingredients and no harmful chemicals, may offer a safer alternative to those seeking to protect their skin and the planet. 

  • Most natural sunscreens are mineral based using zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to block UV rays. These minerals provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. 

  • Natural sunscreens are generally free from synthetic chemicals, making them less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions. This makes them a better choice for babies, children and individuals with sensitive skin, or those prone to eczema.

  • The ingredients in most natural sunscreens are non-toxic and biodegradable. This means they are safer for both the user and the environment. 

  • Natural oils and butters in these sunscreens offer excellent moisturizing benefits. They help keep the skin hydrated and supple, enhancing its overall health and appearance.

  • Other natural extracts in these sunscreens, such as green tea and aloe vera, provide antioxidant protection. They help neutralize free radicals generated by sun exposure and reduce inflammation, promoting healthier skin.

     

Interestingly, there are two plant-based oils with surprisingly high SPF value. These are carrot seed oil, with an SPF of 40, and Raspberry seed oil with an SPF of 30-50, depending on the formulation. There are several natural sunscreens with these ingredients available for sale on Amazon!

 

And more and more, we see people wearing sun-safe, long sleeved bathing suits, breathable linen cover-ups, and broad brimmed hats, at the beach or by the pool. These offer good sun protection for everyone!

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Dr. Ruth Anne Baron . BSc (Hons), ND

1975 Avenue Rd, 2nd Floor

North York, ON M5M 4A1

Dr. Penny Seth-Smith, BSc (Hons), ND

​​

2518 Blackwood Street

Victoria, B.C V8T3W1

info@shinehealthproject.com

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