Zinc Oxide Sunscreen

Sunscreens That Meet Environmental Guidelines

How safe is zinc oxide sunscreen? With all the concern and controversy sounding the safety of sunscreens, zinc oxide may be your simplest and best choice.

I’m sure you are aware that sunscreens are one of the simplest preventative medical steps you can take to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

As the amount of ultraviolet radiation from the sun increases, the potential damage to your skin also increases.

UV radiation causes wrinkles and increases the signs of aging. Repeated prolonged exposure can lead to developing various types of skin cancer.

However, new studies suggest that certain chemicals in sunscreens can been linked to hormonal problems when used over prolonged periods.

And some products may not even protect us from sun damage or cancer.

For example, many sunscreens contain vitamin A (retinyl palmitate) which when exposed to the sun can cause more skin damage. Other products use sprays and pumps, which also contain possibly toxic chemicals.

Best Sunscreens?

So what are you supposed to do now? According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), mineral based sunblocks, not chemical based sunscreens, are you safest bet.

Minerals like titanium dioxide and especially zinc oxide are one of the most effective sunblocks, as well as the only topical block approved for infants under the age of 6 months.

Three factors should be considered when choosing sunscreen for yourself or family members. The two types of UV radiation, A and B, both need to be blocked.

Being water resistant is a large factor, even when a person is not swimming. Sweat easily washes away sunblock applications, so buy enough to reapply as necessary.

The majority of chemical free products are water based, so evaporation is also a factor in how long each application will last.

Last, but not least, on the list is the protective factor itself. This is measured in “SPF” or Sun Protection Factor.

A level of 15 is fine for a casual day of walking around, but levels of 30 and higher are recommended for beach and poolside use.

With a good chemical free block  - like zinc oxide sunscreen - that won't damage or irritate the skin, you can enjoy going out doors all year round without worry.

Chemical Free Products

Click here to see a list of Safe Sunscreen products. Safe Sunscreens that contain zinc oxide and meet the guidelines set up by the Environmental Working Group (EWG).

Resources: Enviormental Working Group