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Years ago, I shared my homemade sunscreen recipe and explained why I avoid most conventional sunscreens. Recently, reports from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) and Consumer Reports have warned consumers against using many types of conventional sunscreens, especially on children. Some places have even gone as far as banning chemicals in certain formulations.
Why We Need to Look at Sunscreen Safety
Sunscreen use has risen in past decades, as media outlets and doctors tout its benefits for protecting against skin cancer, UV rays, and sunburn. The problem with this billion dollar a year market: not all are created equal and recent reports reveal that some sunscreens may be harmful.
Also, while usage is on the rise… so are skin cancer rates. New reports suggest there may be a connection.
Here’s why:
There are two ways that a sunscreen can protect the skin from sun damage: with a mineral barrier or a chemical one.
Mineral Sunscreens…
Mineral options typically include ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which create a physical barrier to protect the skin from the sun. Dermatologists agree that when used correctly, mineral formulations can be effective and are safe even for children and sensitive skin.
They work by creating a physical layer of protection on the skin. Many options of mineral broad spectrum sunscreen provide water-resistant protection from both UVA and UVB rays. Read labels carefully though, as not all do, and I still use protective clothing and hats to avoid excess exposure even with mineral sunscreen.
Chemical Sunscreens…
Chemical based protection uses one or more chemicals including oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate.
You’ve probably seen my stance that if you can’t eat it, you shouldn’t put it on your skin. These chemicals raise some special concerns because many are able to cross into skin and other tissue.
- With these chemicals, it is important to ask questions such as:
- Will this cross the skin and get into other tissue in the body?
- Does this chemical have the potential to disrupt hormones, especially in children?
- Are there long-term or allergy reactions to these chemicals?
Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals
This new research by the EWG reveals that the chemicals commonly used in sunscreen may be endocrine disruptors, estrogenic and may interfere with thyroid and other hormone processes in the body.
The most common sunscreen chemical, oxybenzone, was found in 96% of the population by a recent study by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. This is especially alarming since oxybenzone is considered an endocrine disruptor, can reduce sperm count in men and may contribute to endometriosis in women.
The EWG warns against using oxybenzone, especially on children or pregnant/breastfeeding women.
Environmental Concerns & Coral Reef Damage
Environmental concerns also led Hawaii to ban sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate. The ban cited these chemicals as harmful to coral reefs and ocean life. Other places have followed suit, including places like Key West in Florida.
This ban was based on studies, like this one, showing that these chemicals can cause deformities, bleaching, DNA damage, and even death to coral reef. Coral reefs are important to the ocean ecosystem so this problem has far-reaching consequences.
Lack of Testing
Of the 1,400+ sunscreens tested by the EWG, only 5% met their safety standards and over 40% were listed as potentially contributing to skin cancer.
I explain the reason that sunscreen may actually lead to skin cancer in this post, but one of the reasons is that a vitamin A derivative, retinyl palmitate, that is often used in sunscreens was shown to speed up the growth of cancerous cells by 21%.
Spray options have become increasingly popular in recent years, but have additional dangers, especially if inhaled. Consumer Reports warns that spray sunscreens should not be used on children and that adults should exercise caution and make sure not to use on the face or inhale them.
Many also contain methylisothiazolinone, which the American Contact Dermatitis Society named as its “allergen of the year”
The EWG’s most recent report listed Neutrogena as the #1 brand to avoid, citing high concentrations of oxybenzone and other hormone-disrupting chemicals, and misleading claims about their SPF levels.
Sunscreen May Increase Chance of Overexposure
The FDA also claims that higher sun protection factor values (SPF) are now shown to provide additional benefit. These higher numbers may also give a false sense of security, leading to longer (and less safe) exposure. For this reason, the FDA has recently proposed limiting SPF claims in sunscreen to 60. The EWG goes a step further, suggesting avoiding sunscreens higher than SPF 50.
Better Options in Europe
Like many aspects of our food supply… Europe has stricter standards for sun protection too. In fact, many US sunscreens are too weak to be sold in Europe and offer much less UVA protection. UVA doesn’t cause sunburn but can cause aging and may also be a factor in melanoma.
Read the full breakdown of differences between sunscreens in the US and Europe on the EWG website here, but in short:
- In Europe, there are four additional chemicals approved for UVA protection.
- The FDA has not approved these options for use in the US, even though manufacturers have been waiting for years.
- A 2015 evaluation found that US sunscreens allow, on average, three times more UVA rays to pass through to the skin than formulations in the EU.
- Only about half of US formulations passed Europe’s more rigorous UVA standards.
Sunscreen Impact on Vitamin D
Every time I talk about this issue, I get a lot of comments about how serious skin cancer can be (I agree) and why it is reckless for me to suggest that people reconsider (conventional) sunscreen use (I disagree).
We’ve already established that some sunscreen is harmful and may do more harm than good, but another important consideration that is often ignored: vitamin D.
Many formulations completely block the body’s ability to manufacture vitamin D. Statistically, 75% of us are deficient in vitamin D and vitamin D deficiency has been linked to higher risk of cancer and heart disease (which kill more people than skin cancer per year). (1,2)
We might literally be cutting off our noses to spite our faces when it comes to sun exposure. We lather up with chemical cocktails that have the potential to greatly increase skin cancer risk and reduce Vitamin D production in the name of avoiding skin cancer, and increase our risk of more widespread diseases related to Vitamin D deficiency.
Important Note:
The topic of if sunscreen is harmful is a loaded one. To be clear, I am NOT saying that we shouldn’t exercise caution in exposure (especially overexposure) to the sun, however, as more and more evidence emerges about the dangers of many sunscreens and their potential to increase rates of skin cancer, it is important not to depend on sunscreens or think that regular sunscreen use decreases the risk of skin cancer. I personally turn to protective clothing or seek shade to avoid overexposure.
In fact, a study in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics reports that:
Sunscreens protect against sunburn, but there is no evidence that they protect against basal cell carcinoma or melanoma. Problems lie in the behavior of individuals who use sunscreens to stay out longer in the sun than they otherwise would. Vitamin D inhibition is, at this stage, unlikely due to insufficient use by individuals. Safety of sunscreens is a concern, and sunscreen companies have emotionally and inaccurately promoted the use of sunscreens.
Despite the push for more awareness about sun exposure, and the advice to use sunscreen whenever we go outside, incidence of skin cancer, especially melanoma, is rising dramatically.
Common Ground: Mineral Sunscreen + Protection
Most sources and dermatologists agree that sunscreens with non-nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as the active ingredients are safe and effective way to prevent sunburn if used correctly. Many mineral options are also safer for sensitive skin and for children and don’t carry the same potential concerns as chemical sunscreens.
Some mineral sunscreens with these ingredients also contain some of the chemical ingredients above and have the same risks.
Additionally, if nanoparticles of zinc oxide or titanium oxide are used, these can enter the body and carry risks as well. Since these offer physical barriers, it is also more difficult to accurately pinpoint the SPF of some mineral sunscreens.
Check for UVA and UVB Protection
Labeling can also sometimes be more confusing than helpful. Check the SPF to get an idea of UVB rating. This will tell you how well a particular sunscreen protects against ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. This number is supposed to represent how many times longer a person can stay in the sun. In other words, if a person would normally burn in 5 minutes, an SPF 20 should extend this window to 100 minutes.
SPF does NOT specify UVA rating, so make sure to check this as well. A label should state the UVA protection or indicate broad spectrum or multi-spectrum coverage. Protective clothing is often more effective for UVA protection than sunscreen.
Homemade & Mineral Options
My homemade sunscreen recipe and lotion bars both use non-nano zinc oxide but are not standardized or SPF tested. There are also some natural mineral sunscreens that the EWG lists as safe (and I’ve tried many of these personally).
Best Mineral Sunscreens According to EWG:
- Badger Mineral Sunscreen
- Babyganics spray
- All Terrain KidSport SPF30 Oxybenzone-Free Natural Sunscreen
- Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen
- Bull Frog Sunscreen
- Burt’s Bees Sunscreen Stick
- California Baby Hypoallergenic Sunscreen
- Earth Mama Lady Face Tinted Mineral Sunscreen Face Stick
- JASON Mineral Sunscreen
- Naked Turtle Mineral Sunscreen with Aloe
- Sunology Natural Sunscreen
- Raw Elements Sunscreen
- The Honest Company Sunscreen
- Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen
Safest Sun Exposure: Cover Up
If sun exposure is a big concern or for those with a family history of skin cancers, the safest option is to avoid the sunscreens that the EWG has said might contribute to skin cancer and use the safest form of sun protection: covering up.
With all the information and misinformation about sunscreen out there, the easiest and safest way to avoid sun damage is to stay in the shade and wear a hat or long sleeves.
The recent research shows that certain chemical sunscreens may carry more of a risk than moderate sun exposure, so avoiding these sunscreens is also an important step.
Add Internal Sun Protection:
Another important step to protecting the skin from sun damage is supporting the body internally.
This post explains internal sun protection in detail, but in short, it is important to avoid foods that increase inflammation, such as:
And to focus on foods and healthy fats that support skin health, including:
- Vitamin D3 (I take about 5,000 IU/day)- Emerging evidence shows that optimizing blood levels of vitamin D can have a protective effect against sunburn and skin cancer
- Vitamin C (I take about 2,000 mg/day)- A potent anti0inflammatory, and it is good for the immune system too.
- 1/4 cup coconut oil melted in a cup of herbal tea per day- the Medium Chain Fatty Acids and saturated fat are easily utilized by the body for new skin formation and are protective against burning
- Astaxanthin– A highly potent antioxidant which research shows acts as an internal sunscreen. It’s also supposedly an anti-aging supplement. I don’t give this one to the kids though.
Bottom Line on Sunscreen Safety
It is important to be responsible with sun exposure, but many sunscreens offer a false security of sun protection and may do more harm than good.
The safest option is covering up and supporting skin health internally and externally. Mineral sunscreens (without nanoparticles or sunscreen chemicals) are also a good option, but for the most part, spray and chemical sunscreens should be avoided.
With the widespread availability of natural mineral sunscreens on the market now, please consider choosing safer sunscreens for your family.
This article was medically reviewed by Dr. Scott Soerries, MD, Family Physician and Medical Director of SteadyMD. As always, this is not personal medical advice and we recommend that you talk with your doctor.
What sunscreen do you use? What is your biggest concern with sun exposure?
Love this article. Have shared on Facebook too.
What dosage do you use for fclo and hvbo for adults and kids? I have kids that are 4,6,9,&11.
After my husband dealt with a horrendous eczema breakout for over two months, we took him to a holistic allergist only to find out that he was allergic to coconut oil. Our homemade lotions, deodorant (and even an egg allergy, that I was frying in- you guessed it- coconut oil!) were all making him break out in lesions. What would you suggest replacing it with in your sunscreen recipe? Would mango butter work just as effectively? Thanks, Katie! 🙂
Yes, it will work.
FYI- Arbonne sunscreens are also mineral with zinc oxide (also vegan, gluten-free, non-toxic). Arbonne Baby Care sunscreen, Liquid Sunshine face, body, and lip balm are available.
So great to see an Arbonne user! I did their nutritional detox 2 months ago and it changed my world for the better. I am getting my 15 yr old on board. Her ADD is quite severe during school/stressful moments. So nutritionally I am changing everything. It is not just what we buy for the outside of our bodies but it is what we put inside that really shows. I am such a fan of this blog- my gf and I are always teaming up for new creations on how to change our lives 🙂 I have officially started being an Arbonne consultant but will make my own things from time to time as well 🙂
I would exercise caution with the Honest Company sunscreen. My children recently were burned after use of their SPF 30. I called the company to complain and they admitted they are having issues with the formula and it is being reformulated. My kids were out from 10am to 1pm and it was applied twice. They were both burned.
Great article! Shared on my Facebook page!
I prefer getting our internal sunscreen from carotenoids in food like carrots, strawberries, spinach, red bell peppers, peaches and tomatoes among others! Astaxanthin from orange ocean algae is not in the human food chain, therefor without a record of safety, but is cheap to put in supplements.
‘We prefer the whole food supplement instead!
Thanks for the info! We’ve been “eating” our sunscreen for the past 2 years – red/orange foods (tomato, watermelon, carrots…) with great success. ANd of course, limited exposure and ‘covering up’ amap. 🙂 But a natural option is helpful for those long beach days
Where is your research to show that conventional sunscreen use may lead to skin cancer?
The study I quote from lists the studies: https://www.ewg.org/sunscreen/report/skin-cancer-on-the-rise/
I don’t see anywhere in that EWG report where it says chemicals in sunscreen cause cancer. They list prolonged exposure, extreme burns, UVA exposure, moles, skin color, and tanning beds repeatedly as being risk factors but no where does it list a study referencing the actual chemicals being linked to cancer. Also, your interpretation of vitamin D deficiency from chemical sunscreens is also unfounded speculation. Please cite actual research for your claims.
Article states:
“This year, as in the past, EWG found widespread use of retinyl palmitate in sunscreen. This form of vitamin A has been linked to skin cancer in FDA-sponsored laboratory studies.
What can I do to reduce my risk of getting skin cancer?
In light of the shortcomings of today’s sunscreens, EWG suggests that you adjust your attitude about sun exposure.
Do not use sunscreen as a tool to prolong your time in the sun.”
Not all sunscreens contain reninyl palmitate or other Vitamin A derivatives.
Thank you for this comment! It is upsetting that people base their opinions about important issues using blogs and non scientific articles. Author’s vitamin D understanding is misleading to say the least
Old post but noticed you went quiet there. The EWG sunscreen studies and related claims are being challenged pretty heavily. I have 2 (almost 3) kids and trying to figure this all out.
The science doesn’t seem to support the claims that these sunscreens are dangerous at all, so woudl be curious if you have anything more reliable to source than the EWG.
Finally!……Someone who cuts through the hype and gives sensible and well researched advice. This is great information concisely and well written. Thank you.
Amen! We have rarely used any sunscreen and never the commercial kind!
I loved this article and am going to share it! Every summer I post about sunscreen & the harmful chemicals contained in so many. Not sure anyone reads it, but my hope is that eventually word will spread. We just attended an evening pool party for my daughter’s dance studio & was shocked to find parents liberally spraying their children with sunscreen at 6:30 in the evening. We just need to keep talking about it. Thank you for keeping it at the forefront. I have used Badger Cream, but I LOVE The Honest Company sunscreen. I order regularly from them, but was happy to find it available at Costco recently in a double pack. ?
In addition to my previous comment, I’ve started just saying that my daughter is “allergic” to conventional sunscreen. It never fails that there is that friend or neighbor who thinks she’s doing you a favor and applying sunscreen on a school outing or camp or the park to your child. My daughter literally breaks out in these angry red bumps on her body if someone puts conventional sunscreen on her. So I decided to tell people she’s allergic and can’t have conventional sunscreen. I always make sure she has her own with her. She’s heading to Girl Scout Camp this summer and I’m sending my own sunscreen and bug spray and making sure to list it as one of her allergies because frankly it isn’t far from the truth.
Last summer, when it started happening to me, I read in a dermatology journal that oxybenzone may CAUSE a photoallergic reaction in sensitive individuals. I can’t find the source just now, sorry. So I think you’re right to just say she’s allergic and leave it at that. Now we love Babyganics for summer days out.
Thank you for cheapening the term “allergy” for those of us with kids who need the term to be taken seriously. : |
So she should just allow other people to put products on her daughter that cause an allergic skin reaction because minor allergies should be treated as less important since more severe allergies exist? That’s silly. All allergic reactions should be taken seriously because a minor one today could turn into a major one tomorrow. I developed an allergy to amoxicillin in my 30’s and while I only broke out in hives after taking it, continuing use could have led to something more severe. I also have a skin allergy to nickel so I have to be cautious about the kind of jewelry I can wear and nickel-plated rivets in jeans become a big problem. The resulting weeks-long painful rash certainly won’t kill me, but it isn’t something I shouldn’t take precautions against just because it won’t send me into anaphylactic shock.
These articles are amazing, thank you, thank you. But people, PLEASE screen these sunscreens first. The Blue Lizard was unbelievably toxic, as are many others (Badger). Good thing she linked these products up to Amazon, who mostly discloses ingredients. You also get get the reviews! Some looked good, but the more I read about them, the more confusing it gets. WM does the best thing and shows us how to make our own products. I’m not a make it yourself person, but I’m sure gonna try now! Living longer and being healthy sure is worth it. I’ve had cancer–not interested in having it again…
Scraping our limited, creator inspired form of government for our current Satanic inspired & intrusive Marxist type is the prime reason we have toxic agencies like FDA. approving toxic drugs, policies, & sunscreens. Satan is not your friend neither is his toxic spawn’s. Luckily the truth (God & his medicines) is still available & it can help set you free.