SUMMERTIME SUNSCREEN

Summer time is right around the corner.  Here in Texas, the temperatures are already heating up and pool time has kicked in!  With the rising temperatures comes sunscreen!  A lot of people use sunscreen to be healthy and to avoid skin cancer and sun burns.  What they don’t know is that many of those sunscreens they are lathering on themselves and their kids is actually toxic.

In the United States, the FDA does not have authority to regulate products in the cosmetic industry.  The products are not required to go through any screenings for toxicity on any level allowing them to use dangerous chemicals legally.

One of the most common chemicals used in sunscreen is oxybenzone.  This is a hormone disrupting chemical and only blocks UVB rays.  Due to this being a hormone disruptor, it’s even worse for children.  I would avoid sunscreens with this ingredient at all costs.

Vitamin A (Retinyl Palmitate) is another ingredient used in sunscreens that is damaging our health.  This is known to speed the development of skin tumors when exposed to the sun.  Isn’t then when we use sunscreen?

Unfortunately, most sunscreens on the market have one of these two ingredients.  So, what do we do?  Look for sunscreen with titanium dioxide or zinc oxide.  These do not penetrate the skin and provide both UVA and UVB protection.  In addition, look for ones with non-nano particles.  This means that the particles are not so small that are absorbed into the skin.

If you’re unsure how your sunscreen rates, check the Environmental Working Group’s Sunscreen Guide.  You’ll want your sunscreen to be ranked no more than a 2 if possible!  My favorite is Beautycounter sunscreen and sun sticks!  I love the sun sticks for my face and use it before every run!

Protect All Over Sunscreen and Protect Lip Balm