Sunscreen….something we are all told to use so most of us do without a second thought! Last year though, I began researching ways of moving more of my products to non-toxic. I had already started making my own cleaners (which is another story all together as they stank to high heaven HAHA!) and switched the makeup I was using! But when it came to sunscreen, I never knew how dangerous some of them are!
- 75% Of Sunscreens are toxic
- More Than 2 million American are diagnosed with skin cancer every year.
- Multiple studies show a HIGHER risk of malignant melanoma among people who used the most sunscreen.
- Over 40% of sunscreens contribute to skin cancer
- Retinyl palmiatate, an ingredient used in many sunscreens is proven to speed up the growth of cancer cells by 21%
I actually saw an article online about the dangers, so I began looking for a non toxic sunscreen. I decided to research for a new one…..but it was hard! And the more research I did on these well-known brands of sunscreen, the more scared I got as so many other Moms are not aware of the dangerous chemicals INSIDE the sunscreen. So here are some of my findings and of course the links to back the research so everyone can read and learn for themselves!
First off, According to the American Cancer Society, babies under the age of six months should have no direct sun exposure, and should NOT use sunscreen of any type! Keep them in the shade, in a stroller, or covered with light weight clothing.
Second thing to know, only 8% of sunscreens are safe for your skin! Why are so many sunscreens dangerous? According to research from the Environmental Working Group “Our review…shows that some sunscreen ingredients absorb into the blood, and some have toxic effects. Some release skin-damaging free radicals in sunlight, some act like estrogen and disrupt hormones, and several can cause allergic reactions and skin irritation. The FDA has not established rigorous safety standards for sunscreen ingredient”
In fact, sunscreens haven’t been regulated since 1978 in the USA!!! YIKES!!!!
Some of the most dangerous chemicals in many sunscreens are oxybenzone, methoxycinnamate, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate and octinoxate and PABA. These are estrogenic chemicals and they are directly linked to cancer.
Third thing to think about, the sun is your friend!! It’s the best way to get Vitamin D3 which we all need!! It helps boost your mood, strengthen your immune system, and helps prevent cancer But like many things, it’s good in moderation. 20 minutes of sunshine is great, but too much more can be a bad thing! After that point you need to be in the shade, wear a hat or cool clothing, or apply sunscreen!
Fourth thing to know, there are two types of sunscreen, mineral sunscreen and chemical sunscreen. The chemical sunscreens ingredients are able to penetrate the skin and so your body begins absorbing those ingredients!
Mineral sunscreens on the other hand, have ingredients that create a physical barrier between the skin and the sun to ensure protection. They also are not absorbed into your body, do a more effecting job at blocking the UVA rays, AND do not break down in sunlight!
Before you rub that sunscreen all over yourself and your babies, check the ingredients! Mineral sunscreens are easy to find and are becoming more popular at your Health Food Stores. Or limit your sun exposure and use hats and light clothes instead. Don’t take the risk, just switch to toxin free!!!
http://www.rmbarry.com/research/sun_protection.html
http://wellnessmama.com/55366/sunscreen-is-harmful/
https://draxe.com/75-of-sunscreens-are-toxic-what-to-do-instead/
If you are looking for a great non toxic sunscreen and other amazing products, make sure to check out where I grocery shop! All non toxic, all online, all great ways to save money!
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