Toxic Sunscreen and Non-Toxic Alternatives

Let’s talk about the potential dangers lurking in many sunscreens today. Sunscreen is a product most of us apply generously and repeatedly—often all over the body and several times a day. Because of this frequent use, its ingredients should be gentle, non-irritating, and stable enough to withstand UV exposure without breaking down into potentially harmful compounds. Safety is especially important when we consider that spray sunscreens can be inhaled and lip products may be ingested. Many sunscreens also contain penetration enhancers—ingredients designed to help the product adhere better to the skin. While this may improve performance, it can also increase the absorption of certain chemicals into the bloodstream. Studies have detected harmful sunscreen ingredients in blood, urine, and even breast milk, raising questions about their long-term effects on human health.

Toxic ingredients:

Unfortunately, many sunscreens on the market contain ingredients that have raised safety concerns. Several of these chemicals are known or suspected endocrine disruptors, meaning they may interfere with hormone function and potentially affect development and reproductive health. They should be avoided at all cost.

• Oxybenzone has been linked to hormone disruption and may lower testosterone levels. It is particularly concerning for children, who tend to absorb higher amounts. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) recommends avoiding sunscreens that contain oxybenzone.
• Octinoxate, Homosalate, Octisalate, and Octocrylene are commonly used chemical UV filters. Animal and laboratory studies suggest they may interfere with hormonal balance, including reproductive and thyroid function. While human data is still evolving, these findings raise legitimate concerns.
• Methylisothiazolinone, an inactive ingredient used as a preservative, is a known skin sensitizer and can cause allergic reactions. It’s also found in some baby wipes, raising additional safety concerns.

Safer Sunscreen Ingredients:

Currently, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are widely regarded as the safest sunscreen filters. These mineral-based ingredients work by sitting on the surface of the skin and reflecting UV rays rather than absorbing them.

Although they are often used in nanoparticle form, current evidence suggests these particles do not penetrate deeply into the skin. For this reason, mineral sunscreens are generally considered a safer and more skin-friendly option, particularly for children and those with sensitive skin.

Natural Alternatives:

Some oils can be used as sun protectors although with caution. First of all they do not have the same water-resistant properties as commercial sunscreens, so frequent reapplication is key. Secondly, their SPF varies with the quality and concentration of the oil, so it is best to avoid peak sun hours, and to slowly get your skin used to the sun, increasing sun exposure little by little. Lastly, everyone’s skin is different, so what works well for one person may not work the same way for another. Pay attention to your skin’s response and adjust accordingly.

• Red Raspberry Seed Oil offers an SPF of around 30-50, making it a moderate to high level of sun protection. But it’s also packed with antioxidants that combat the harmful effects of free radicals generated by UV exposure. 
• Carrot Seed Oil has an SPF between 30-40. Its natural substances like carotenoids and vitamin E work as antioxidants, protecting the skin from UV damage and lowering the risk of premature aging.
• Coconut Oil has an estimated SPF of about 4-8, making it a low level of sun protection.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, chemical sunscreens are toxic and should be avoided at all cost. Several recent studies show that skin cancer is linked to these chemical sunscreens. Given the toxicity of its ingredients, it is indeed a possibility that we should not immediately discard. Therefore, carefully and cautiously test the list of oils above on your skin and prefer mineral sunscreen always checking ingredients.