I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Nontoxic Sunscreen!
Using sunscreen reduces your exposure to harmful UV rays, decreases your risk of skin cancer, and can slow the signs of premature aging. However, by using certain sunscreens, you could actually be slathering harmful chemicals onto your body’s largest organ! Keep reading to learn the difference between chemical sunscreen, and nontoxic sunscreen such as mineral sunscreens.
The common sunscreens you find on every end cap at the store in the summertime are known as chemical sunscreens. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and cause it to undergo a chemical reaction that prevents it from damaging your skin (1).
Unfortunately, these chemical sunscreens have been found by the FDA to contain concerning substances that are not only harmful to the environment but could be harmful to your health.
Why You Should Avoid Chemical Sunscreens
Chemical sunscreens are meant to be absorbed into the skin instead of sit on top of the skin. So what happens when you apply a chemical sunscreen over 75% of your body on a sunny beach day? Well, it actually reaches your bloodstream, and has even been found in breast milk.
In 2020, the FDA looked at 6 commonly used sunscreen ingredients (avobenzone, oxybenzone, octocrylene, homosalate, octisalate, and octinoxate) and tested the amount that these ingredients absorbed into the bloodstream after normal and maximum usage. Not only did the study confirm that these chemicals absorb into your bloodstream after just 1 application, but there have also been studies that question if oxybenzone is a hormone disruptor (2).
So what’s a safer alternative? Mineral Sunscreens!
What are Mineral Sunscreens?
Mineral sunscreen, also known as physical sunscreen, sits on top of your skin to act as a physical barrier to block the UV rays. The two most common ingredients in these sunscreens are zinc oxide, and titanium dioxide. Both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are nontoxic sunscreen ingredients that are safe for people of all ages, including babies and those who are pregnant. Therefore, always look for zinc-based sunscreens and avoid the “zones” like oxybenzone and avobenzone.
Are Spray Sunscreens Nontoxic?
Even if you choose a mineral based sunscreen with safer chemical ingredients, spray sunscreens can contain small particles that can be harmful if inhaled. More often than not I see people’s spray sunscreens blowing away in the wind, wafting in my direction instead of actually being well applied to the skin. As convenient as they are, it is safer to go with a lotion or stick so your sunscreen actually goes where it’s should, which is not your lungs.
Nontoxic Sunscreen Brands
Now that we know what chemical components to avoid, and which ingredients to look for, below are some examples of zinc based mineral sunscreens. None of these brands contain any of the hazardous chemicals like oxybenzone and are either EWG verified or pose little concern for adverse health effects according to EWG standards.
Thinksport
One of my favorite brands is Thinksport/Thinkbaby. Most easily available for online purchase, they have zinc-based options from lotions to sticks, for both adults and children. All of the variations linked below are ranked either 1 or 2 on EWG (the lower the score, the better). The consistency of the lotion is smooth and easy to apply like traditional chemical sunscreens, while the stick versions are easy to apply a thick layer to arms and face. Their regular stick and lotions do cause a significant white cast, although they do offer a clear formulation in case you don’t want to appear like Casper the Friendly Ghost in all your summer photos. I kept a stick in my purse and a lotion in my pool bag and it was great knowing I could safely use it for myself or my kids.
Babo Botanicals
Another great brand is Babo Botanicals, which carries plant based, EWG verified products created by a mom who was looking for safe product options for her family. They are a certified B corporation and do not test their products on animals. They carry sheer and clear mineral sunscreens, as well as formulations specifically for babies. You can get 10% off by simply signing up for their rewards program.
Badger
Badger is another brand that carries many different zinc-based sunscreens. They offer creams, sticks, lip balm, and a baby formulation. I used their Baby Sunscreen Cream when my twins were infants, and it was THICK! Despite it being a mere 3oz container for not so little money, a little went a long way. Badger was a brand I could only really find on Amazon though, which might not be convenient for those wanting to shop in store. Use code SUMMERSALE25 on their site to get 25% off your purchase.
365 Everyday Value
Lastly, if you need to pick something up for a last-minute pool party and can’t wait for an Amazon delivery, check out 365 Everyday Value sunscreen from Whole Foods! Whole Foods actually over 215 chemicals that they’ve banned from their health and beauty products so it can be easier to make safe purchases just by shopping at Whole Foods.
- Thinksport Clear Zinc Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
- Thinksport Clear Zinc Active Face Sunscreen, SPF 50
- Thinksport Clear Zinc Sunscreen Lotion, Kids, SPF 30
- Thinksport Sunscreen Stick, SPF 30
- Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sunscreen, SPF 30
- Babo Botanicals Sensitive Baby Mineral Sunscreen, SPF 50
- Badger Sport Mineral Sunscreen Cream, SPF 40
- Badger Baby Mineral Sunscreen Cream, Chamomile & Calendula, SPF 40
- Badger Active Mineral Sunscreen Stick, SPF 35
- 365 Everyday Value Sport Mineral Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30
There are more options than you realize for safer, mineral based sunscreens. In summary, look for mineral sunscreens that are zinc based, and avoid chemical sunscreens with avobenzone, oxybenzone, octocrylene, homosalate, octisalate, and octinoxate. Also, stick with traditional lotions instead of sprays; not only will you get more product, but you also won’t risk inhaling the sunscreen ingredients. I hope this list makes it easy for you to browse and shop for safe sunscreen for you and your family. If you have any favorite mineral sunscreen brands, feel free to share them in the comments below!
If you’re interested in reading more about endocrine disrupting chemicals, be sure to check out my post here!
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[…] If you want to keep reading, you can also check out my previous blog post on choosing a safe, non-toxic sunscreen here! […]