Natural Mineral Sunblocks
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Conventional Sunscreens vs. Natural Mineral Sunblocks:
Understanding the Risks and BenefitsWhen it comes to protecting our skin from harmful UV rays, the choices between sunscreens and natural mineral sunblocks can be overwhelming. Both types of sunscreens have their merits, but concerns over potential health risks, environmental impact, and the difference in how they work make it important to understand what you’re applying to your skin.
A Controversial Ingredient in Sunscreen, Oxybenzone, has been at the center of many debates. Studies have shown that it can be absorbed into the skin and detected in the bloodstream of nearly every American. Some research suggests that oxybenzone may act as a hormone disruptor, potentially affecting testosterone levels in adolescent boys. Four studies published in 2020, support previous findings that oxybenzone can act as an endocrine disruptor and may increase the risk of breast cancer and endometriosis. Additionally, it’s known to cause allergic reactions in some people and is contributing to the deterioration of coral reefs.
Octinoxate, also known as octyl methoxycinnamate, is a chemical UV filter commonly found in sunscreens. Unlike mineral-based filters, octinoxate is easily absorbed into the skin, and studies show that this absorption continues even after application. A 2020 study by the FDA revealed that octinoxate levels in blood samples were measured at 16 times higher than the FDA’s proposed safety threshold.
Animal research suggests that octinoxate can disrupt the endocrine system, particularly by affecting thyroid hormone production. There is also evidence that it may interfere with other hormones, including those involved in androgen and progesterone signaling.
Other ingredients like octinoxate, octisalate, and avobenzone, commonly found in sunscreens, also raise health and environmental concerns. These sunscreens work by absorbing UV radiation and converting it into heat, which is then released from the skin. However, this process requires the sunscreen to be absorbed into the skin first, and studies have shown that these chemicals can accumulate in the bloodstream and potentially disrupt hormone levels.
On the other hand, natural mineral sunscreens like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide work differently. These ingredients sit on the skin's surface and act as physical barriers, reflecting UV rays away from the skin rather than absorbing them. Zinc oxide, in particular, is recommended for its broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. It is photostable and doesn't degrade as quickly as some chemical sunscreens. Moreover, it is non-toxic, safe for sensitive skin, and doesn't have the same risks associated with absorption into the bloodstream.
Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are also considered safe for the environment, making them better choices for protecting marine life and coral reefs. In fact, many countries and regions have banned the use of sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate due to their damaging effects on coral .
Many people are tempted to choose sunscreens with very high Sun Protection Factors (SPF), believing that higher numbers offer better protection. However, the FDA has proposed banning sunscreens with SPF values over 60+, calling these numbers misleading. High SPF can give users a false sense of security, leading them to apply too little sunscreen and stay in the sun longer than they should .
Another concerning ingredient in some sunscreens is vitamin A, or retinyl palmitate, which can speed up the development of skin cancer when exposed to sunlight. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) recommends avoiding sunscreens and lip products that contain vitamin A .
The debate between chemical and mineral sunscreens is ongoing, but it's clear that mineral sunscreens, especially those containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, are safer for both your health and the environment. While sunscreens do provide effective UV protection, their potential risks—ranging from hormone disruption to environmental damage—make mineral sunscreens a better option for those looking to minimize exposure to harmful chemicals.
Sunscreen is just one tool for protecting your skin from sun damage, but choosing the right type can make a significant difference for both your health and the planet. Always look for broad-spectrum protection, water resistance, and ingredients that align with your skin type and environmental values.
Remember - Our bodies produce large amounts of vitamin D when exposed to sunlight, particularly UV rays. The fact that our skin creates this compound in response to potentially harmful radiation should be a clear signal of its healing potential. While vitamin D’s role in immune function has long been underappreciated by mainstream medicine, new studies show that it plays a vital role in maintaining immune health.
Also remember - no sunscreen is perfect, so combine it with other protective measures like wearing hats, seeking shade, and avoiding the sun during peak hours.
