Stay Safe This Summer and Avoid These Harmful Ingredients in Sunscreen

Maggie Roney LPC

As we approach the summer season, its time to get excited for beachside vacations and fun in the sun. If youre packing your beach or pool bag, chances are youve got sunscreen to prevent burning and protect your skin from the suns harmful rays. However, many people are unaware of the many toxins found in traditional sunscreen products.

This summer, consider natural or organic sunscreen products that are free of the most common toxins. In this article, well explore ingredients to avoid in sunscreen products and replacements that are better for you. 

harmful ingredients in sunscreen

Bad Ingredients in Sunscreen

Most common store-bought sunscreens contain harmful chemicals which can be toxic to humans. While using these types of sunscreens once or twice is unlikely to cause harm, prolonged exposure to these bad ingredients should be avoided, if possible. 

Below are some of the most common toxic ingredients found in sunscreen products: 

Artificial Scents

Many products have added fragrances to make them smell great. Youre likely to recognize this Hawaiian beach scent associated with sunscreens. Although they may smell good, the scents are chemicals. These scented chemicals can cause cancer, skin irritation, and even hormone disruptions.

Parabens

Parabens are synthetic preservatives found in many health and beauty products, including sunscreen. Parabens are linked to skin irritation and potential tumor growth.

Oxybenzone

Oxybenzone is a form of synthetic estrogen, which can wreak havoc on your hormones. These are often found as active ingredients in sunscreen products. This ingredient is the most problematic of toxic ingredients found in sun products, as numerous studies have suggested its harmful health effects.

Avobenzone

This ingredient causes skin irritation, especially in those with sensitive skin. It may even accelerate the aging process causing free radicals to be released into the body.

Retinyl Palmitate

This ingredient, a form of Vitamin A, when exposed to the sun, may cause cancer over time, In addition, studies have suggested that it can cause free radical damage in the body.

Damages from Sunscreen

The harmful toxins listed above, along with several others, may cause damage to your body over time. This could include skin irritation, acne, burning, or stinging, Many sunscreens cause premature aging or rashes, as well. Many of the chemicals listed above are also linked to hormone imbalances, diabetes, or cancer. 

If you are interested in learning more about how muscle testing can help you identify any related symptoms to toxin exposure, please contact me today.

What type of sunscreen should I look for?

Mineral sunscreens are a great option to protect yourself from the harmful rays of the sun. There are many natural and organic mineral sunscreen products available, which are free of the harmful ingredients mentioned above. 

In addition, research has suggested that mineral sunscreens are not absorbed into the body the same way traditional sunscreen is. Safe ingredients used in sunscreens include:

  • Zinc Oxide: This ingredient is found in many natural sunscreens to help offer UV protection from the suns rays. It is safe to use and does not irritate the skin.
  • Other safe ingredients include vitamin A, E, C, beeswax, jojoba oil, almond oil, and other types of natural oils.

Not sure which brands carry the sunscreens that are best for your skin? Here are some brands that prioritize non-toxic sunscreen. 

The following brands have sunscreens that are certified organic and contain natural, safe ingredients:

  • Beauty Counter

  • Pure Haven

  • Earthley

  • 100% Pure

  • Babo Botanicals

  • Native

  • Badger

Make the Switch

This summer, protect yourself and your family from toxic chemicals in common sunscreens. Take the extra few minutes to purchase a natural, safe sunscreen product you can feel good about.

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