Sunscreen Hazards and Recommendations From the Environmental Working Group (EWG)
The last blog post discussed many of the problems with topical sunscreens and sunblocks. This includes any sunscreens or sunblocks that may be in makeup. If your makeup or other skin products have an SPF (Sun Protection Factor), beware! Here’s an overview of the primary dangers of sunscreens: –Sunscreens block the production of Vitamin D –Sunscreens really don’t protect you from UVA rays very well –SPF ratings are extremely misleading. First of all, they only describe UVB protection, NOT UVA protection at all. But also SPF ratings are theoretical, produced in a lab where the amount of sunscreen used on the subject is copious. In reality, sunscreen users almost always use far less than the amount used in testing. Furthermore, sunscreen use often accompanies cavalier attitudes toward sun exposure–leading to longer exposure and more damage. –Many active ingredients in sunscreens are unstable. These chemicals actually break down in the sun, forming free radicals that further damage your skin.
–Many sunscreen ingredients are also toxic, passing through your skin and into your bloodstream where they circulate throughout your body. Some of these ingredients can be poisonous, while others actually alter your hormonal levels.
The EWG Rated 1400 Sunscreens in 2010 Yet you may still feel you need to wear sunscreen in certain situations–and it’s probably better than getting burned!! The Environmental Working Group (EWG) reviewed 1400 sunscreen products and rated them all, recommending a small number of them. In order to ensure the sunscreen you purchase has the least amount of hazardous chemicals as possible, please check the following links for recommended products. You can also search for the products you currently use to see how they rate. But remember, there’s no substitute for avoiding prolonged sun exposure. Find your sunscreen and EWG-recommended products here: http://www.ewg.org/2010sunscreen/ http://www.ewg.org/2010sunscreen/best-beach-sport-sunscreens/