SUNSCREEN!

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Sunny days are here!! Finally seeing that sunshine has a lot of benefits for mental health, but the downside is that exposure can lead to skin cancer and premature aging! Cumulative sun exposure as well as episodes of blistering sunburn before age 18 increase risks for various types of skin cancer. Soaking up those rays of sunshine reminds us that we need to start stocking up on sun protection gear! In this post, we will discuss topical sun protection.

Sunscreen vs. Sunblock

When applied to the body, sunscreen filters most of the ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. Sunblock works by reflecting the rays away from the skin. As long as they are applied correctly, protect from both UVA and UVB rays (it should say "broad-spectrum") and are water resistant, both work equally as well.

The recommended age to start using sunscreen is 6 months. Sunscreen needs time to absorb, so it should be applied 15-20 minutes before sun exposure. About an ounce should do it, and when in doubt, apply more than you think you may need. Don't forget the ears, hands, feet and under bathing suit straps. Also, use an SPF lip balm. Reapply every 2 hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating. Of note, even though they are super quick and easy to use, I avoid spray formulations because they can provide uneven coverage and can be inhaled or get in the eyes.

Sun Protection Factor (SPF)

We all talk about SPF, but what does it really mean? SPF is an indication of how much UVB will make it to your skin. An SPF of 15 blocks 93% of UVB rays (7% will pass through), 30 blocks 97%, 50 blocks 98%, and 100 blocks 99%. An SPF of 30 or higher is recommended. Given various skin types and intensity of sun exposure, different people will burn over varying lengths of time.

What about the ingredients??

This wouldn't be an Eco-Friendly Pediatrics post without some thoughts on what is actually in the sunscreen. We are applying these products all over our bodies, so what happens when ingredients are absorbed by the skin? Studies have shown that some of the chemicals end up in the bloodstream and even breast milk for weeks after discontinuing use [1]! If you read our post on Essential Oils, you are already familiar with the term "endocrine-disrupting chemicals". Here's a rundown on active ingredients to avoid from EWG [1] and then my two favorite types of mineral sunscreen that I buy.

1. Oxybenzone - it can disrupt both female (estrogen) and male (androgens/testosterone) hormones and has high rates of causing skin allergy

2. Octinoxate - may mimic hormones and caused behavioral, thyroid and reproductive changes in animal studies (not that I condone animal studies!); also a moderate rate of skin allergy.

3. Homosalate - disrupts male and female hormones and the products of breakdown are also toxic

4. Octocrylene - high rates of causing skin allergy

5. Avobenzone - absorbed by the skin and must be mixed with stabilizers as it is not stable in the sun

What is safe?

In general, look for a mineral sunscreen. Titanium dioxide is not known to penetrate the skin and is generally recognized as safe as long as it is not inhaled. Zinc oxide has very low skin absorption and is also safe unless inhaled.

I feel confident using these EWG rated products on my little one. As an affiliate with GoThink and Amazon Associates, I may earn on qualified purchases.

1. Thinkbaby and Thinksport

Thinkbaby and Thinksport are award-winning, non-toxic, water resistant mineral-based sunscreens for babies and children. They even have a stick formulation which is convenient for use on the face! Their products are great for children with sensitive skin and eczema. They are made in the USA with a sustainable, environmentally conscious manufacturing and packaging process.

2. Badger

This is a small, family-run company in New Hampshire operating on the highly respectable principles of kindness, compassion, and environmental stewardship. Their sun protection line is non-toxic, water resistant and composed of 98% organic ingredients. The kids' version comes in a yummy creamsicle scent so they will love putting it on!

Check out these links to their baby and kid lotion sunscreens as well as sunscreen sticks and lip protection!!

1. EWG report on harmful ingredients in sunscreen