5 Dangerous Chemicals in Sunscreen
The primary reason I advocate for organic sunscreen is the harmful chemicals found in conventional sunscreens. Most sunscreens on the market today are chemical mixtures that have been linked to various health issues. Here are five common chemicals in non-organic sunscreens and their associated health risks. After learning about the potential dangers of these chemicals, you’ll understand why I exclusively recommend organic sunscreens.
# Avobenzone
Avobenzone is a key ingredient in many commercial sunscreens because it effectively absorbs a wide range of ultraviolet (UV) rays, particularly those that cause sunburn. Though once considered relatively safe, recent research challenges this notion. Avobenzone degrades in sunlight, releasing free radicals that may increase cancer risk. These free radicals are also known to speed up skin aging and have been linked to various allergies.
# Fragrance
Sunscreens often contain a variety of artificial fragrances to make the product more appealing. There are over 1,500 chemicals used for this purpose, and they are usually listed under the general term “artificial fragrance.” These chemicals have been associated with cancer, nervous system disorders, allergies, and birth defects. It’s no wonder that many public places are beginning to ban fragrances altogether.
# Oxybenzone
Oxybenzone works similarly to avobenzone and is found in most commercial sunscreens. While both chemicals absorb UV rays to prevent skin penetration, oxybenzone is more toxic than avobenzone. Alarmingly, oxybenzone may be contributing to increased rates of melanoma, the very skin cancer sunscreen aims to prevent. High exposure to oxybenzone in mothers has been linked to lower birth weights in their daughters. Additionally, it is associated with allergies, hormone disruption, and cell damage.
# Parabens
Parabens are commonly used as preservatives in sunscreens and many personal care products. There are 18 different types, all identifiable by the word “paraben” in their names. Parabens are estrogen disruptors and have been connected to infertility, abnormal testicular development, obesity, asthma, allergies, benign tumors in the uterus or digestive tract, and breast cancer.
# Vitamin A
It might seem odd to see vitamin A listed as a concern since it’s a vital nutrient. However, when vitamin A, often in the form of retinyl palmitate, is exposed to UV light, it generates free radicals that may increase cancer risk. Daily use of retinyl palmitate by pregnant women may be toxic to the developing fetus, leading to brain swelling, developmental toxicity, cellular changes, and organ toxicity. It also produces excess reactive oxygen species, which can cause cell death and may be linked to cardiovascular disease.
The Solution: Organic and Chemical-Free
Knowing the health risks associated with non-organic sunscreens, it’s puzzling why anyone would use them. These chemicals pose significant health risks and may contribute to the very diseases they are supposed to protect against. The safest way to protect yourself from the sun is by using sunscreens made from natural ingredients. Do yourself and your skin a favor by choosing only organic products.
