Top Picks for Sun Protection: The Ultimate Guide to Clean Sunscreens in 2023
Embrace the Summer Safely: Your Ultimate Guide to Clean Sunscreens in 2023. As summer approaches and outdoor activities increase, it is vitally important to safeguard your skin from harmful sun exposure. While some sun exposure is necessary and good for health (think circadian rhythm and vitamin D synthesis), too much of a good thing can be harmful. Explore the evolving landscape of sunscreens that balance performance with cleaner ingredients. Learn about the latest products and discover the key ingredients to avoid for a sun-kissed yet healthy and protected skincare routine.
A Vital Warning : Top Ingredients To Avoid In Sunscreens
Oxybenzone
This widely used UV protector, though effective, poses serious health and environmental risks. Linked to hormone disruption and coral reef damage, it's crucial to steer clear of oxybenzone and its derivatives benzophenone-3, Milestab 9, Eusolex 4360, Escalol 567, or KAHSCREEN BZ-3. Dive into our guide for safer sun protection choices and informed skincare decisions.
Fragrance
When you see 'fragrance' or 'parfum,' it conceals a proprietary chemical blend with thousands of undisclosed components, often containing harmful phthalates. These plasticizers disrupt the endocrine system, pose carcinogenic risks, and may affect developing children. Stay informed by scrutinizing ingredient lists for terms like scent, musk, essence, and acronyms such as DBP, DINP, DEP, DEHP, DMP, BBP, DNOP, and DIDP.
Parabens
Decoding Preservatives: The Lowdown on Parabens in Skincare. Added to prevent bacteria and mold, parabens raise concerns as hormone disruptors akin to oxybenzone and fragrance phthalates. Stay vigilant when checking ingredients; watch for benzylparaben, butylparaben, ethylparaben, methylparaben, and propylparaben in your skincare products.
Vitamin A or Retinol
Often labeled as retinol, Vitamin A, a potent anti-aging ingredient, accelerates skin cell turnover, heightening sun sensitivity. Use retinol exclusively at night, and ensure daytime protection with broad-spectrum SPF. When scanning labels, watch for vitamin A, retinol, retinyl acetate, and retinyl palmitate in your sunscreen ingredients list.