How to choose a non-toxic, hormone healthy sunscreen
What is Non-Toxic Sunscreen & Why is it Important?
Non-toxic sunscreen is a type of sunscreen that doesn't contain any harmful chemicals that can be absorbed by your skin or the environment. Many traditional sunscreens contain chemicals such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, and avobenzone, which can cause allergic reactions, disrupt hormone levels, and damage coral reefs.
Non-toxic sunscreens use mineral filters such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to block out harmful UVA and UVB rays instead of chemicals. These mineral filters are considered safer than chemical filters and have been used for decades to protect the skin from the sun's harmful rays.
Ttraditional sunscreens can be harmful to your health as the chemical filters can be absorbed by your skin and disrupt hormone levels. Some chemical filters have even been linked to cancer. Non-toxic sunscreen is important for hormone health because many traditional sunscreens contain harmful chemicals that can disrupt the endocrine system, which regulates hormones in the body. Some chemical filters commonly found in traditional sunscreens, such as oxybenzone, have been shown to mimic estrogen in the body, leading to hormonal imbalances and potentially contributing to the development of conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis.
Additionally, some studies have suggested that certain chemical filters found in traditional sunscreens can affect fertility in women. For example, one study found that women who had higher levels of benzophenone-3, a common chemical filter, in their urine had a more challenging time getting pregnant.
Non-toxic sunscreens use mineral filters such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are not absorbed into the body and do not disrupt the endocrine system. By using non-toxic sunscreen, women can protect themselves from the harmful effects of the sun without compromising their hormone health.
Traditional sunscreens can also be harmful to the environment. When you swim in the ocean or other bodies of water, the chemicals in your sunscreen can be released into the water, damaging coral reefs and marine life.
Thirdly, non-toxic sunscreen is just as effective as traditional sunscreen. Many people worry that non-toxic sunscreens won't provide enough protection from the sun, but this isn't the case. Mineral filters such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide provide excellent protection from both UVA and UVB rays.
How to Choose Non-Toxic Sunscreen
When choosing a non-toxic sunscreen, it's essential to read the label carefully. Look for products that contain mineral filters such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These ingredients are generally considered safe and effective.
You should also avoid products that contain oxybenzone, octinoxate, and avobenzone, as these chemicals have been shown to be harmful to both your health and the environment.
Here are some of the non-toxic mineral sheilf ingredients you should look for:
Zinc oxide: Zinc oxide is a mineral filter that provides broad-spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays. It's an excellent ingredient for sensitive skin as it's gentle and non-irritating.
Titanium dioxide: Like zinc oxide, titanium dioxide is a mineral filter that provides broad-spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays. It's also non-irritating and gentle, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin.
Futhermore, making sure that the actual carrier oils/ingredients are natural is important as well. These oils have high smoke points and therefore won’t oxidize on your skin in the light and heat.
Coconut oil: Coconut oil has natural moisturizing properties and is a great ingredient to look for in mineral sunscreens as it helps keep the skin hydrated and nourished.
Shea butter: Shea butter is another natural moisturizer that helps soothe and protect the skin. It also contains antioxidants that help protect against environmental stressors.
Jojoba oil: Jojoba oil is a lightweight oil that helps hydrate and nourish the skin without clogging pores. It's an excellent ingredient for those with oily or acne-prone skin.
Beeswax: Beeswax is a natural emollient that helps create a protective barrier on the skin, locking in moisture and preventing dryness.
Your skin should be sunscreen-free in the sun for 20 minutes per day, followed by a mineral SPF.