With summer in full swing, the message is loud and clear - don’t forget to wear sunscreen! Long-term sun exposure has been associated with two types of carcinoma as well as malignant melanoma. The sun also contributes to wrinkles and aging. Knowing these dangers, it should come as no surprise that suncare-related products are a $2B industry in the U.S. alone.
On the contrary, sunscreen carries risks too. A 2019 FDA study showed that some chemical sunscreen ingredients such as oxybenzone were not only absorbed into the bloodstream but still present more than 3 weeks after application. In addition, UV-blocking chemicals can lead to skin irritation and hormonal disruption. Other studies suggest that they can interfere with fetal development and even cause cancer – the very thing we are trying to prevent. YIKES!
It’s not just human health being affected. Some parts of the world have banned sunscreens containing the 3 Os - oxybenzone, octocrylene, and octinoxate - because of the harmful effects to coral reefs and marine life.
On average we need 10-30 minutes of sun a couple of times a week to naturally maintain healthy levels of vitamin D. This provides the foundation for a healthy immune system, strong bones, and brain function. It also helps us absorb other vitamins and minerals.
The real question is, how do we balance the benefits of short-term sun exposure vs. the dangers? Here are a few suggestions to help keep you and your family safe and healthy this summer.
- Avoid the sun between 11 am – 4 pm when the UV rays are the strongest. Morning sunlight can boost your serotonin levels and help set your circadian rhythm for better sleep at night. Double win!
- Wear clothing with built-in sun protection. A wide-brimmed hat can go a long way in shielding your most sensitive skin areas. Let’s not forget about our eyes. They need UV protection too! L.L. Bean offers a wide variety of sun-protective clothing and eyewear for men, women, and children. They are stylish and long-lasting with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) of 50+. Ladies, if you need outdoor athletic wear, check out the UPF styles from Athleta.
- Use mineral sunscreen. When choosing a sunscreen, it’s important to take a look at the active ingredients. You will want to AVOID products that contain Oxybenzone, Avobenzone, Octocrylene, Octinoxate, Homosalate, and Retinyl Palmitate.
Instead, look for mineral sunscreens with titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. They don’t penetrate the skin but, instead, create a reflective barrier for UV rays. These are the only 2 ingredients generally recognized as both safe and effective by the FDA.
Some of the most tried and true mineral sunscreen brands are Babo, Badger, Beautycounter, Coola, and Earth Mama. Several of these companies also offer SPF products in a spray, which can be handy for kids. However, please be careful not to spray these near the face where the particles can be inhaled. Use a face stick or lotion for this part of the body.
Now that you know more about how to safely protect your body’s biggest organ, get out there and enjoy the summer!