Safe Sun- Safe Sunscreen
Summer is here and being Sun Smart is on everyone’s mind, but make sure that your sunscreen is safe. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has put together a new report on sunscreen. http://environmentaldefence.ca/blog/tip-month-you-think-youre-safe-sun They remind us that some sunscreens contains toxic chemicals, like vitamin A, known to cause cancer, and oxybenzone, a hormone disruptor, and a skin allergen.
Here are some tips on how to choose a safe sunscreen:
-Sunscreens made for babies or children are a better choice as they are less likely to contain “fragrance”, which can cause allergies and potential serious health problems. They’re also less likely to contain the hormone-disrupting chemical, Oxybenzone.
-Spray and powder sunscreens can damage your lungs and eyes. Stick to the lotions.
-Choose Minerals. Zinc oxide is an effective and safe sun blocking (UVA and UVB) mineral that your skin doesn’t absorb.
-Use common sense, and avoid overexposure regardless of your sunscreen. SPF gives us the notion that we’re safe from the sun, when this might not be the case.
Have fun in the sun!