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This article was published in July 2010 but that was the middle of winter!! It's obviously a topic that is far more relevant at this time of year. Thanks to Nicole Bijlsma (The Healthy Home Guru) for this great information on sunscreens, please always remember (like anything you purchase) you can't assume that just because it's readily available on the shelf of a supermarket or pharmacy that it's safe for your family!
Despite the fact that more people use sunscreen than ever before, the rate of skin cancer continues to rise. Research conducted by the Environmental Working Group in 2011, revealed that the great majority of sunscreens do not protect against both UVA and UVB rays and in addition, may contain chemicals that affect our hormones, damage the skin and in some cases, actually increase the rate of skin cancer.
There are essentially two types of sunscreens: mineral and non-mineral formulations or a combination of these.
- Mineral formulations that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are generally effective against UVA rays, however they contain nanoparticles that can be toxic if they penetrate the skin.
- Non-mineral sunscreens contain oxybenzone, octisalate, octinoxate, and avobenzone. Many are associated with adverse health effects.
Oxybenzone an ingredient found in over 50% of sunscreens (and in the blood of 96% of the US population!) can trigger allergic reactions, is a potential hormone disruptor and penetrates the skin in relatively large amounts with many experts now recommending that it should not be used on children (EWG, 2011).
Worst sunscreens
Avoid sprays and powders as you may inhale nano particles which can be toxic.
In addition, avoid these ingredients:
- 4-Methylbenzylidene camphor (4-MBC)
- Benzophenone-3 (oxybenzone)
- 3-Benzylidene camphor
- Octyl methoxycinnamate (OMC)
- Padimate O
- Retinyl palmitate (a form of vitamin A) found in 30% of sunscreens may speed the development of skin tumours when applied to the skin in the presence of sunlight (National Toxicology Program, 2009)
- SPF above 50+. To read what's wrong with high SPF, click here.
For a list of the worst brands of sunscreens, click here.
Best sunscreens
A sunscreen needs to be effective against UV rays and not expose you to harmful chemicals.
The Environmental Working Group (2001), recommends sunscreens that contain the following ingredients: Mexoryl SX (ecamsule), Avobenzone, Tinosorb S, Tinosorb M and Octisalate. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are effective however they may contain nano particles and as such should not be used as sprays or powders.
For a list of the best brands of sunscreens, click here.
How to protect yourself from skin cancer
- Don't rely on sunscreens to do the job! They should NOT be the first choice (International Agency for Research on Cancer, 2001).
- Avoid midday sun.
- Seek shade where ever possible.
- Cover up: hat, clothes and sunglasses are important
Dont go overboard - the sun is our greatest healer. We all need sun exposure to lift our mood (enhance serotonin) and activate Vitamin D in our skin. Early morning and late afternoon sun is vital to our mental and physical health.
This is a blog from Nicole Bijlsma, the Healthy Home Guru. Visit her website for more great information.
References:
Another reference I came across which was found by The Eco Mum, has some fantastic information
http://www.skinbiology.com/toxicsunscreens.html
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Health & Fitness 
