How to Safeguard Your Skin and the Environment Against the Sun

With summer in full swing, it’s essential to prioritize sun protection to help prevent damage from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Sunscreen is a vital tool in our defense against sunburns, premature aging, and even skin cancer. However, not all sunscreens are created equal. In this blog, we’ll explore crucial sunscreen facts everyone should know and shed light on certain sunscreen ingredients that may be harmful to your skin or the environment. By being informed consumers, we can make better choices for our wellbeing and the planet.

To make informed choices in protecting your skin and the environment, it’s important to familiarize yourself with some basic sunscreen facts as well as which ingredients it’s best to avoid.

Sunscreen Facts

Broad-spectrum Protection

When choosing a sunscreen, opt for one that offers broad-spectrum protection. This means it shields your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin, leading to premature aging, while UVB rays primarily cause sunburn. Protection against both is crucial for overall skin health.

SPF (Sun Protection Factor)

SPF is a measure of how much UVB radiation is required to produce sunburn when we’re using a sunscreen as opposed to the when we’re not protected. The SPF number indicates how well the sunscreen protects the skin against sunburn.  In other words, the higher the SPF number, the greater the protection from the sun. For example, if you were wearing an SPF 30, it would take 30 times longer for a burn to appear than if you weren’t wearing sunscreen.

Based on regulated or lab controlled testing, SPF 30 allows about 3% of UVB to hit your skin or blocks nearly 97% of UVB rays. SPF 50 allows about 2% of those rays through or blocks 98%. That may not seem like a big difference until you realize that the SPF 30 is actually allowing 50% more UV radiation onto your skin. So if you know you’ll be out all day in the midday sun with little shade available, you should consider a higher SPF as well as a hat or UV rated clothing.  With that said, SPF 30 is generally considered a minimum for adequate protection, but it’s important to remember that no sunscreen can block 100% of UV rays.

Tips for using sunscreen

• Reapplication every two hours or less is necessary, regardless of the SPF level. 
• Applying one ounce or the equivalent to a shot glass is considered a suitable amount for a single application for the average body size.
• It is best to avoid the sun between 10am-4pm when the sunrays are the most intense. And, don’t forget to apply sunscreen on cloudy days since you are still vulnerable to UV exposure.
• UV rays can penetrate up to one meter under water – meaning you can still burn as you swim.  Look for biodegradable sunscreens to wear while swimming.

Ingredients to Avoid

Oxybenzone

This commonly used chemical absorbs UV rays but has been linked to skin allergies, hormone disruption, and potential damage to coral reefs. It can also penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream. Look for oxybenzone-free alternatives to ensure both personal and environmental safety.

Octinoxate (Octyl methoxycinnamate)

While effective in blocking UVB rays, octinoxate is also known to cause hormone disruption and allergic reactions. Similar to oxybenzone, it poses a threat to coral reefs and marine ecosystems. Opt for octinoxate-free sunscreens to minimize the negative impact.

Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A Palmitate)

Although vitamin A itself has skincare benefits, studies have suggested that its presence in sunscreen can increase the risk of skin damage and lesions when exposed to sunlight. To avoid potential harm, it’s advisable to choose sunscreens without retinyl palmitate.

Nanoparticles

Certain sunscreens contain nanoparticles of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which provide effective UV protection. However, their small size raises concerns about potential absorption into the body and their impact on aquatic ecosystems. Consider using non-nano mineral sunscreens or physical blockers like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that aren’t in nanoparticle form.

Protecting Your Skin and the Environment

Remember that what washes off our skin into the water, such as sunscreen, can have a significant impact on marine life. Whenever possible, choose one of the following biodegradable sunscreens that minimize harm to our fragile aquatic ecosystems.

Mineral Sunscreens

Look for mineral-based sunscreens that use ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These act as physical blockers, reflecting and scattering the sun’s rays. They are generally considered safer for both your skin and the environment.

Reef-friendly Sunscreens

Choose sunscreens that are labeled as “reef-friendly” or “ocean-safe.” These formulations avoid harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, reducing the risk of coral bleaching and damage to marine ecosystems. Check for certifications such as the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) “EWG Verified” or the Protect Land + Sea™ Certification.

As you enjoy the sun’s warmth and embrace outdoor activities, don’t forget to prioritize your skin’s health and the well being of our environment. By staying informed about sunscreen facts and avoiding harmful ingredients, you can safeguard your skin from sun damage while contributing to the preservation of our precious natural resources. Choose wisely, protect responsibly, and let the sun be a source of joy, not harm.