Safe Sun Protection

We're always on the lookout for clean sunscreens, which are made more difficult by the fact that they can't be challenging to put on. It's tough to identify what's what, as it is typically with most personal-care items. We are only interested in mineral alternatives and not chemical ones. Chemical sunscreens absorb the sun's rays, whereas physical sunscreens (using zinc or titanium dioxide) physically suppress UVA and UVB rays by sitting on top of the skin.

But why are chemical sunscreens frowned upon? Well, many compounds are used in chemical sunscreens, such as oxybenzone, octinoxate (octylmethoxycinnamate), homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene, and avobenzone, are endocrine disruptors. Endocrine disruptors are dangerous because they imitate the hormones that our body makes regularly and damage everything from our reproductive systems to our metabolism. They're incredibly harmful to children, whose bodies are still maturing.

Oxybenzone or one of four other sunscreen compounds were discovered in 85 percent of breast milk samples in a 2008 Swiss study, raising concerns that newborns could be vulnerable. Another regularly used drug, octinoxate, was discovered in breast milk in a 2010 study.

Oxybenzone has also been linked to reduced testosterone levels in adolescent boys, hormonal abnormalities in males, shorter pregnancies, and disturbed birth weights in babies.

Furthermore, oxybenzone and octinoxate have been related to coral reefs and marine life destruction. The use of sunscreen creams containing oxybenzone and octinoxate is now prohibited in Hawaii, the US Virgin Islands, Key West, and the Pacific island of Palau. Numerous locations around the world are discussing doing so.

And so, if you are concerned about chemicals entering their bloodstream, the Food and Drug Administration considers titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to be safe and effective mineral (rather than chemical) sunscreen components.

Mineral-based sunscreens physically deflect and block the sun's rays instead of chemical-based sunscreens, which absorb UVB rays and release heat as they degrade. Another advantage is that mineral components appear to be environmentally friendly.

Mineral-based goods are becoming more popular as people seek better alternatives for both human health and the environment.

At the same time, another development is emerging: the use of oxybenzone in US products is decreasing. Two to three years ago, research shows that 60% of the non-mineral products had oxybenzone. Last year it was only 40% and this year it's 38%.

All that being said, here are the best and safest sunscreen options when it comes
to natural, organic, or mineral-based sun protection:

1) The Organic Pharmacy Cellular Protection Sun Cream SPF 30

This light, moisturizing SPF 30 cream absorbs quickly and is ideal for both the face and the body. UVA and UVB protection are provided by titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. At the same time, skin is nourished by shea butter, aloe, rosehip, and calendula.

2) Viva Sana Daily Protezione SPF 30

This isn't your ordinary SPF 30. To protect and nourish skin, zinc oxide is combined with intensely moisturizing argan oil, antioxidant raspberry seed and green tea, and calming licorice root in one light cream. It blends in flawlessly, blurring flaws and leaving you with the healthiest-looking radiance.

3) KYPRIS Pot of Shade Heliotropic

This gorgeous translucent broad-spectrum composition is ideal for regular use. It's fantastic as a primer, leaving skin bright and smooth, thanks to moisturizing botanicals (with no essential oils, so it's perfect for reactive and sensitive skin) and zinc oxide. It applies beautifully, blends seamlessly, calms all skin types, and transforms serious, long-lasting protection into a delightful daily routine.

4) Naturopathica Daily UV Defense Cream SPF 50

This everyday moisturizer is sleek and softly, slightly matte, as well as a harmless (to people and coral) SPF 50 that absorbs quickly. Keep one in the cosmetic bag and one in the glove compartment for emergency sun scenarios since it's terrific on its own, over makeup, and on the backs of your hands.

5) Beautycounter Countersun Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30

This moisturizing, lightweight zinc oxide formula is ideal for toddlers and those with delicate skin to outdoorsy types. The broad-spectrum, water-resistant solution is loaded with antioxidants and aloe vera and protects against UVA, UVB, and blue light. It absorbs quickly into the skin and has a light orange and lemon scent.

6) Beautycounter Dew Skin Moisturizing Coverage

The ultimate no-makeup makeup of all time has to be this glowy, transparent, instantly perfecting SPF 20. It's less about covering up shortcomings and more about looking and sounding like yourself, only better. The light, deeply moisturizing solution absorbs quickly; zinc oxide relieves the whole day; black currant, peony-root extract, and vitamin C enliven; and potent moisturizers keep skin looking clearer.