Sunscreen Dangers

Are you, or more specifically your children, at risk of toxic exposure from the contents of your suncreen? (Sorry, I know I sound like an infomercial) I happened across a sunscreen research site a month ago, and it's such an informative, easy-to-use experience that I had to post it on my blog. The Environmental Working Group is a non-profit whose tagline is "the Power of Information". Their objective is to inform the general population of their research findings pertaining to everday household products & chemicals. The site is chalk full of excellent research findings, and I could easily spend hours reading about toxic exposure in our air, water, food and homes. It is so insightful, it's a sight well worth bookmarking.

Anyhow, the point at hand: the EWG specifically tested over 2,000 sunscreen brands and ranked them on a scale of 1-9 (1 being best, 9 being hazardous to your health). As a general blanket statement, it appeared that most Baby sunscreens were better options. However; there were some brands that even the Baby sunscreen was tested and found to be in the red danger zone. Take a minute to click the link and check out the sunscreen you plan to slather on your kiddos this summer. If you are not into this, and want to take my word on a sunscreen to purchase; all of these sunscreen listed below ranked a (1) one. However; it is very specific. You must purchase the exact sunscreen listed because there were large variances between the same brand. So, just because a brand is listed below, doesn't mean the whole line of sun care from that brand is safe.

Badger Baby & Unscented Sunscreen SPF30+
Goddess Garden Baby All Natural Suncreen SPF30+
California Baby, No Fragrance Sunscreen Lotion SPF30+
Aubrey Organics Green Tea Sunscreen SPF30+
Aubrey Organics Unscented, Sensitive Skin & Children's Sunscreen SPF30+
Aveeno Baby Natural Protection Mineral Block Face Stick  SPF50+

Also, it's worth mentioning that Dr.Mercola sells an all natural sunscreen.  I am a firm believer in Dr. Mercola and his research findings and recommendations. Dr. Mercola's sunscreen is water-proof.

The best option is smart sun exposure. Once your skin is light pink, it's time to get out of the sun. At that point, your skin has made all of the vitamin D it's going to make and you will just be damaging your skin. If you can't get out of the sun, put clothes on and get in shade.


Sidenote: Unfortunately for Bodhi, we found out the hard way that many organic/all natural sun screens are NOT water proof. Read the label. Apply them immediately after exiting the water, and perhaps a "swim break" is in order if there fun is lasting more than a half hour. Of course, the best option is to wear a swim shirt or t-shirt.