Sun Safety

☀ Sunscreen Safety: What You Need to Know Before You Apply

Why some ingredients in your SPF might be doing more harm than good—for your health and the planet.

By Annie Watts

As summer unfolds and our days grow longer, sunscreen becomes a daily essential for skin protection. But before slathering it on, it’s worth taking a closer look at what’s in that bottle. Some common sunscreen ingredients are now under scrutiny due to their potential effects on our health and the environment.

⚠ Ingredients to Watch Out For

Several chemicals used in sunscreens are linked to hormone disruption, skin irritation, and even damage to marine ecosystems. Remember, your skin is your LARGEST organ!! Everything you put onto your skin goes into your bloodstream. We need to be more careful of what we put on our skin than what we eat! At least our liver tries to filter out the toxins we ingest.

 Here are some of the worst offenders:

• Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3):

  
  

  A common UV filter with an Environmental Working Group (EWG) safety rating of 8 out of 10, oxybenzone is known to mimic estrogen, disrupt hormones, and contribute to coral bleaching.

• Octinoxate (Octyl Methoxycinnamate):

  
  

  This chemical is not only an endocrine disruptor but also toxic to marine life. It has been banned in Hawaii and Key West for its reef-damaging effects.

• Homosalate:

  
  

  Absorbed into the body with frequent use, homosalate can interfere with hormones and has been linked to reproductive toxicity.

• Octocrylene:

  
  

  Known to cause allergic reactions and skin irritation, it can degrade into benzophenone, a suspected carcinogen.

• Retinyl Palmitate:

  
  

  Though marketed as anti-aging, this form of Vitamin A may break down into harmful compounds when exposed to sunlight—potentially increasing the risk of skin damage or even cancer.

• Avobenzone:

  
  

  Unstable in sunlight, avobenzone often requires additional stabilizers that may cause allergic reactions or interfere with hormones.

• Parabens & Fragrance:

  
  

  Both are found in many personal care products. Parabens mimic estrogen and are linked to breast cancer risk, while synthetic fragrance blends often contain phthalates and other irritants.

✅ Safer Choices & Recommendations

Protecting your skin doesn’t have to come at the cost of your health or the environment. Consider these safer alternatives:

• Mineral-Based Sunscreens:

  
  

  Look for active ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These minerals sit on the skin’s surface and reflect UV rays without penetrating the skin or disrupting hormones.

• Reef-Safe & Organic Products:

  
  

  Choose sunscreens labeled “reef-safe” or “organic,” which usually exclude synthetic filters and harmful preservatives.

• Read Labels Carefully:

  
  

  Just because a product says “natural” doesn’t mean it’s non-toxic. Always check the ingredient list.

• Consult a Dermatologist:

  
  

  If you’ve had skin reactions in the past or have specific skin concerns, ask your doctor for personalized sunscreen advice.

“Zinc oxide is your skin’s best friend—it’s safe, gentle, and effective.”

🧢 Beyond Sunscreen: Smart Sun Habits

Sunscreen is just one part of a holistic approach to sun protection. Here are other practical ways to protect your skin:

• Wear a Wide-Brimmed Hat:

  
  

  Hats offer shade and protect sensitive areas like your scalp, ears, and neck from direct sun.

• Opt for UV-Protective Clothing:

  
  

  Many brands now offer lightweight, breathable fabrics with built-in UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) for full-day coverage.

• Seek Shade:

  
  

  Especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest. Use umbrellas, trees, or even long-sleeved cover-ups to reduce exposure.

• Sunglasses Matter Too:

  
  

  Choose sunglasses with 100% UVA and UVB protection to safeguard your eyes and the delicate skin around them.

• Be Mindful at the Beach and Pool:

  
  

  Water and sand reflect UV rays, intensifying exposure. Reapply sunscreen often and double up on other protective measures.

🌿 Final Thoughts

Sunscreen remains essential for preventing sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. But choosing the right one—and pairing it with other smart sun habits—can help protect both your body and the environment.

This summer, be sun-smart. Reach for mineral-based, reef-safe sunscreen, wear your hat, and enjoy the sunshine safely.

If you have any questions about this information, please don’t hesitate to reach out! As always, be well and take care of yourself!

Annie Watts is a Functional Health Coach in Kennebunk. You

can follow her under Annie Watts Wellness on Facebook &

Instagram. Her website is www.anniewattswellness.com.