UV rays from the sun are the number one cause of wrinkles and older looking skin, so it is absolutely essential to use a proper sunscreen or sunblocker. I have written about this topic before in how to find the best sunscreen, but now some new research has shown that we need to pay close attention to what is in these sunscreens. Mind you, this study was taken by The Environmental Working Group and so it may come as no surprise that their end advice is to use mineral sunscreens.
What to look out for in sunscreens
The EWC tested over 500 sunscreens and here are some of their conclusions:
Vitamin A
Vitamin A which is also called rtinyl palmitate was identified as a problem ingredient and is currently investigated by the FDA. It is believed that when this ingredient on the skin is exposed to sunlight it will actually accelerate skin damage and may increase your chance of skin cancer. Mind you this is still being investigated but perhaps caution is appropriate here.
Oxybenzone
Another ingredient is look out for is oxybenzone. This compound is found in many sunscreens and can cause disruption to your natural hormone balance. A study by the American Center for Disease Control (CDC) showed that there may be a link between low birth weight of baby girls and the mother’s exposure to oxybenzone during pregnancy. This compound is therefore better avoided.
Other things to look out for are:
- Make sure you choose a sunscrren that also protects against UVA rays. UVA radiation is linked to increase your chances of cancer and skin damage. Many high spf sunscreens still do not protect against UVA.
- According to the FDA there is no point buying any sunscreens with SPF higher than 50. There is no reliable evidence that his higher SPF rating will give you more protection.
So which suncreens are the safest and best?
Based on this study, in terms of safety it is best to choose the mineral sunscreens, that contain at least either zinc or titanium. Zinc prevents uva rays to penetrated into the lower layers of your skin. It actually ‘sits’ on your skin therefore giving you an extra protection layer that reflects the sun’s rays.
Some of the best mineral sunscreens
Lavera has mineral based sunscreen creams that contain zinc and titanium. They offer a whole range from sunblockers to dayly moisturizers to bodysprays.
Another choice is Pure Mineral suncreen spf 15, which also contains both zinc and titanium
Also containing both ingredients is Nature’s Gate Mineral Sunblock – Spf 20, 4 oz
What are your experiences with mineral sunscreens? Let us know!
