☀️🌊It's finally summer and I never let my son go out without sunscreen, so I was extremely
alarmed by the latest Environmental Working Group (EWG) report.
The SPF Myth!
Many sunscreens boast high SPF values, suggesting superior protection. Leading to prolonged sun exposure, however SPF 100 isn’t significantly more protective than SPF 50. SPF Values reflect only product effectiveness against UVB rays, the cause of sunburn and some skin cancers, however it doesn't reflect protection against UVA rays which penetrate the skin even deeper than UVB rays and contribute to skin aging and cancer.
Here are some other shocking revelations:
The EWG report highlights several concerning ingredients in popular sunscreens that may pose serious health risks, including:
- **Oxybenzone**: Linked to hormone disruption and potential cancer risk.
- **Octinoxate**: Known to cause skin allergies and endocrine disruption.
- **Homosalate**: Potentially accumulates in the body faster than it can be broken down, affecting hormone levels.
It's not just our skin that's at risk—these harmful chemicals can impact our liver health too:
It becomes more important to choose wisely before applying your sun protection and going to the beach if you have any signs of hormonal imbalances or poor functioning liver
What didn’t surprise me is how current FDA regulations are outdated and haven’t been updated in decades leaving consumers at risk.
Choosing Safe Sunscreens:
Given these concerns, here's how to choose safer sunscreens:
1. **Mineral-Based Formulas**: Opt for sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
2. **Avoid High SPF**: Stick to sunscreens with SPF 30-50 and ensure they offer broad-spectrum protection.
3. **Read Labels Carefully**: Avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone, octinoxate, and homosalate.
4. **Check EWG’s Guide**: Use the EWG’s annual sunscreen guide to find the safest options
#### My Go-To Sunscreens
Admittedly I totally fell for this one and would always look for higher SPF but luckily I check EWG skin deep and verified products and do extensive research before buying and products (my husband hates it because it can take me weeks) however this means I don’t have to throw away my kids sunscreen because its among the verified list for safe sunscreen
What I use for my son: Think baby clear zinc, clear lotion SPF 30
I use the same for the whole family but here are two more options available in Canada
Juice beauty PREBIOTIX Glow daily multi tasking moisturizer, SPF 45
Attitude Sunly mineral sunscreen unscented, SPF 30
#### Sun Safety Beyond Sunscreen
- **Cover Up**: Use hats, sunglasses, and UPF clothing.
- **Stay Hydrated**: Drink plenty of water.
- **Shade and Timing**: Seek shade during peak sun hours, typically 10 AM to 4 PM.
Choose Wisely and Enjoy the SunShine! 🌞👒👶
