As temperatures peak under the scorching sun, it’s necessary to slather on sunscreens that protects you from harmful UVA, UVB and UVC rays , nixes premature ageing, and reduces the risk of skin cancer caused by prolonged exposure to UV radiation. But at the same time , you want a clean sunscreen that is not only skin-safe but also has minimal impact on the planet and our furry friends, letting you frolic in the sun, sand and sea with nary a worry. And clean sunscreens can help you get there.
What you need to avoid
We turn to skin experts to weigh in. Integrative skin and wellness doctor and author of Skin Sense, Dr Kiran Sethi, says, “A clean sunscreen is one that is without any agents that can be absorbed into the body, it reduces irritation, and is overall safe to use. Recent data has shown that many sunscreen agents, such as oxybenzone (an endocrine disruptor) may be absorbed into the bloodstream.” She adds one should steer clear of chemical sunscreens containing ingredients such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, octisalate, octocrylene and homosalate as they may be absorbed into the bloodstream even after a single use.
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has created a nifty Guide to Safer Sunscreens for choosing a sunblock. EWG’s guide specifies to avoid sunblocks containing ingredients Oxybenzone, Vitamin A (retinyl palmitate) and added insect repellent and look for ingredients such as Zinc Oxide and Mexoryl SX.
What you need to look for
Pick a physical sunscreen that is 100% mineral and is formulated with highly effective ingredients, minus toxic chemicals. “Mineral sunblocks are the solution because they are not absorbed – they sit on top of the skin, functioning as a shield against the sun,” says Dr Sethi.
NYC-based Board Certified Dermatologist Dr Debra Jaliman says one needs to look for mineral sunblocks, sunscreens with high concentrations of Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide. “Mineral sunscreens are the only ones that are safe for the reef. We also find that they are less irritating to the skin and also do not decompose in the sun or at high temperatures,” says Dr Jaliman. Containing ingredients commonly found in makeup, these sunblocks are safe, non-reactive, and protect skin from LED light induced trauma.