Clean Sunscreen Guide

What chemicals should I avoid when choosing a sunscreen?

Certain chemicals are often added to sunscreen that should be avoided due to potential health and environmental concerns. Here are the worst offenders:  

Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3): This chemical is a common ingredient used in many sunscreens as well as plastics, toys and furniture finishes. It has been associated with hormone disruption and allergic reactions in some individuals. It has also been found to be harmful to coral reefs and marine life when washed off into the water.

Octinoxate (Octyl methoxycinnamate): Similar to oxybenzone, octinoxate is believed to have hormone-disrupting effects. It has also been found to be harmful to coral reefs and has been banned in some regions to protect marine ecosystems.

Avobenzone: A chemical compound commonly used in sunscreens as a key ingredient for absorbing UVA (ultraviolet A) rays. It is highly unstable and can increase free radicals and toxicity in the skin when exposed to sunlight.

Homosalate: While generally considered safe in low concentrations, there is some evidence to suggest that high levels of homosalate can disrupt hormone function in the body.

Parabens (Including propylparaben, benzylparaben, methylparaben and butylparaben): These are preservatives used in many cosmetic products, including some sunscreens to prevent mold. Some studies have suggested a potential link between parabens and hormone disruption.

What does SPF mean? 

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It is a numerical rating system that indicates the level of protection provided by a sunscreen against the sun's ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. SPF primarily measures the effectiveness of a sunscreen in preventing sunburn caused by UVB radiation.

The SPF number represents the length of time you can stay in the sun without getting burned compared to how long it would take without any sunscreen. For example, if you apply an SPF 30 sunscreen, it means you can stay in the sun approximately 30 times longer without burning compared to unprotected skin.

However, it's important to note that SPF alone does not indicate the level of protection against ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, which also contribute to skin damage and aging. To ensure broad-spectrum protection, it's recommended to choose a sunscreen labeled as "broad-spectrum," which provides protection against both UVA and UVB rays.

Also, the actual protection provided by sunscreen can vary depending on factors such as the amount applied, frequency of reapplication, sweating, and water exposure. It is generally recommended to use a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and to reapply it every two hours or more frequently if sweating or swimming.

Is mineral sunscreen really better?

Yes. Although mineral sunscreen is known to cause a white cast and is harder to apply, it is the better option. Here are a few reasons why: 

1. Broad-spectrum protection: Mineral sunscreens offer broad-spectrum protection, which means they protect against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are responsible for skin aging and can penetrate deeper into the skin, while UVB rays cause sunburn and primarily affect the outer layers of the skin. 

2. Physical sun barrier: Mineral sunscreens work by creating a physical barrier on the skin's surface that reflects and scatters UV rays away from the skin. They contain active mineral ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which sit on top of the skin and act as a shield.

3. Gentler on the skin: Mineral sunscreens are generally well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin. The mineral ingredients used in these sunscreens are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions compared to some chemical sunscreen ingredients.

4. Photo-stability: Mineral sunscreens tend to be more photostable than chemical sunscreens. They do not degrade as quickly when exposed to sunlight, providing longer-lasting protection. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, can break down over time and may require more frequent reapplication.

5. Environmental considerations: Mineral sunscreens are considered reef-friendly or ocean-friendly because they do not contain certain chemicals, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been shown to be harmful to coral reefs and marine life.

Should I be avoiding spray sunscreen?

Unfortunately, yes. I know spray sunscreen is easier to apply than lotion however, when sunscreen compounds are inhaled they can cause respiratory issues. I promise, your friend doesn't mind helping apply sunscreen as much as you think they do. 

Does sunscreen expire?

Yes. It’s very important to be aware of the expiration date of sunscreen. It indicates the period during which the sunscreen is considered stable and effective. Over time, the active ingredients in sunscreen can degrade, reducing their effectiveness in protecting the skin from harmful UV rays. Expired sunscreen may not provide the level of sun protection indicated on the label, which can increase the risk of sunburn and other skin damage.

Using expired sunscreen can also lead to changes in texture, consistency, and smell, indicating that the product has gone bad. If you notice any unusual changes in the appearance or smell of your sunscreen, it's best to err on the side of caution and replace it with a new one.

To ensure the effectiveness and safety of your sunscreen, it's recommended to:

1. Check the expiration date before using sunscreen.

2. Store sunscreen in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

3. Avoid using sunscreen that has been exposed to high temperatures or has been stored for an extended period beyond the expiration date.

The good news is, the word is spreading and there are more non-toxic, white cast free mineral sunscreens to choose from than ever. Here are some of my favorite brands:

• Badger 

• Earth Mama Organics

• Kinfield 

• Babo Botanicals

• Kōkua Sun Care

• All Good

• Sun Love by Annmarie

• Blissoma