The Best Non-Toxic Sunscreen (And Ones To Avoid!)

It's almost time to trade in sweaters for swimsuits!

But first, we need to discuss sunscreen.

Many sunscreens contain toxic ingredients or endocrine disrupting chemicals that may promote skin cancer growth and free radical production in the body. In fact, in the years since sunscreen use began, skin cancer rates have actually risen, and a 2007 document from the FDA stated that: “The FDA is not aware of data demonstrating that sunscreen use alone helps prevent skin cancer” In fact, many reports show that most sunscreens actually raise skin cancer risk.

A 2018 report from Environmental Working Group (EWG) found that nearly 67 percent of sunscreens didn’t work. "Most sunscreens available today typically offer protection in the form of either a mineral sunscreen or a chemical sunscreen. Mineral sunscreens (the one I use!) are made with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These minerals sit on the surface of your skin and physically reflect sunlight away from the skin. Chemical sunscreens work a bit differently and have caused concern amongst dermatologists and researchers. Instead of physically deflecting UV light away from the skin, chemical sunscreens absorb the UV radiation into the skin and dissipate the energy via a chemical reaction under the skin. Additionally, there is concern that chemical sunscreen ingredients can permeate the skin and cause hormone disruption and allergic reactions. Because of this, the EWG and most dermatologists recommend using mineral sunscreens instead of chemical sunscreens. Common chemical sunscreen ingredients to avoid include oxybenzone (one of the worst offenders), avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate." (Skincare Ox)

If you're Vitamin D deficient like me and many others, traditional sunscreen could be doing more harm than good. Think about this: "Vitamin D = necessary for correct hormone formation. Sunscreen ingredients like Oxybenzone = endocrine disruptors that inhibit correct hormone formation. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to many types of cancers including the most deadly types of breast cancer. Lack of Vitamin D has also been linked to problems during pregnancy including pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, premature labor, and more." (Wellness Mama)

But, before you run and grab the first natural sunscreen you see, you need to know that they're not all created equal! Terms like “natural” and “organic” are not regulated by the FDA. So that beautiful, natural looking packaging with the word "natural" across it is pretty much meaningless. The solution? You need to read the label. However, I've made it even easier for you! Below I've included the best non-toxic sunscreens, all rated "1" on EWG's Skin Deep Database. And further down I've listed ones to avoid.

1. Love Sun Body 100% Natural Mineral Sunscreen

This is the sunscreen that I use most. It's thick, but not as thick as other mineral sunscreens I've used. It spreads easily and absorbs quickly. I use it on my face and it doesn't leave me feeling greasy!

2. Badger SPF 35 Sport Sunscreen Cream

This is the sunscreen I used before trying Love Sun Body. It's pretty thick and doesn't spread as easily, but it works well and I still have a tube. Just rub it between your fingertips to warm it up and help it spread!