Choosing the Right Sunscreen

After a long winter, summer is finally here! Many of us will be spending a lot of time outdoors on vacation, at the pool, or at the park with our kids. With all the long hours outdoors, do you wear sunscreen?

The issue of sunscreen has been a highly debated topic for years. Sunscreen is important because it can prevent premature aging, burning, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer. On the other hand, new research has shown that sunscreen may also be dangerous for the skin. So what are we supposed to do? Let’s take a closer look.

There are two types of sunscreens: either physical or chemical. Physical sunscreens work by reflecting the sun’s rays, whereas chemical sunscreens work by absorbing and neutralizing the rays. Chemical sunscreens contain ingredients like oxybenzone or retinyl palmitate, which may absorb into the skin, affect adrenal hormones and may even cause cancer.

Sunscreen is only necessary when you will be exposed to the sun for a long time. If you’re going out to run some errands, it really isn’t necessary. We all need at least 20 minutes of sun exposure daily to maintain our vitamin D levels. Vitamin D is an essential vitamin that is needed for healthy bones and for the immune system to function properly. It can be obtained from foods we eat, but more importantly, from the sun. Vitamin D deficiency is becoming very common among Americans. Low Vitamin D can cause rickets, diabetes, and even cancer.

How can you stay safe in the sun while having fun?

Avoid going out at peak times. Usually early morning or late evening is best.
The more clothing you wear, the more protected you are.
If you are swimming or will be out for a long time, reapply often.
Chose physical over chemical sunscreens.
Make sure the sunscreen is broad spectrum (protects against UVA and UVB rays) and is between SPF 15-30.
Avoid ingredients like vitamin A (retinyl palmitate, retinol) and oxybenzone.
Check your skin regularly for any moles or any changes in appearance.

There are many products out there now that are safe to use. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has been working hard on educating consumers about sun safety. Part of their initiative is to offer safer sunscreen choices. A few of their recommendations are below:

Alba Botanica Natural Very Emollient Mineral Sunscreen, Fragrance Free, SPF 30
Aubrey Organics Natural Sun Saving Face Sunscreen, SPF 15
Burt’s Bees Baby Bee Sunscreen Stick, SPF 30
California Baby Everyday/Year-Round Broad Spectrum Sunscreen, SPF 18
Jason Pure Natural Sun Mineral Natural Sunscreen, SPF 30
Kiss My Face Kids Natural Mineral Sunscreen, SPF 30
Seventh Generation Wee Generation Baby Sunscreen, SPF 30
The Honest Company Sunscreen, SPF 30

For more options, please visit http://www.ewg.org/2014sunscreen/best-sunscreens/best-beach-sport-sunscreens/

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