The anti-sunscreen movement has been making waves lately, raising concerns about the chemicals lurking in our favorite SPF products. From potential hormone disruptors to environmental concerns, it's enough to make anyone think twice about using that sunscreen on your skin.
We get it.
We also believe that a lot of traditional sunscreens are full of chemicals.
So, are the fears justified?
What are the real risks of chemical sunscreens?
And most importantly, are there safer alternatives that can protect your skin without compromising your health?
In this blog post, we'll explore the truth behind the anti-sunscreen movement and introduce you to a game-changing solution that will make you rethink everything you thought you knew about sun protection.
Unmasking the Chemical Cocktail in Traditional Sunscreens
Many traditional sunscreens contain a mix of complex chemicals, some of which have raised eyebrows in the health and environmental communities. Let's take a closer look:
- Chemical UV Filters: These include oxybenzone, octmidinoxate, octocrylene, and homosalate. They work by absorbing UV rays and converting them into heat, but they've also been linked to potential hormone disruption, skin irritation, and environmental damage.
- Preservatives: Phenoxyethanol is a common preservative used in sunscreens, but it's also a potential skin irritant and allergen.
- Fragrances: Many sunscreens contain synthetic fragrances, which can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. Some fragrances have also been linked to hormone disruption.
Okay, so we know these chemicals are in our sunscreens, but how much should we really worry?
Well, the research is still ongoing, but several studies have raised red flags:
- A 2020 study found that common sunscreen chemicals can be absorbed into the bloodstream at levels that exceed safety thresholds set by the FDA.
- The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has classified oxybenzone as a high hazard due to its potential to disrupt hormones and cause skin allergies.
- Research on coral reefs has shown that oxybenzone and octinoxate can contribute to coral bleaching and damage, which has devastating consequences for marine life.
It's important to note that not everyone will have a negative reaction to chemical sunscreens, and they do offer protection from the sun's rays. However, the potential risks are worth considering, especially if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or have sensitive skin.
But here's the thing: while it's good to be informed, we also don't want to scare you away from sun protection altogether. A little bit of chemical sunscreen is definitely better than no sunscreen at all and risking your skin to get burned or damaged.
The good news is, you no longer have to choose between protecting your skin and protecting your health. There's a whole world of natural sunscreens out there that offer a safer, gentler alternative.
These sunscreens rely on mineral ingredients like zinc oxide which sit on top of the skin and physically block the sun's rays, rather than being absorbed into the body.
Here's a quick rundown of some of the benefits of mineral sunscreens:
- Mineral sunscreens are less likely to irritate sensitive skin or clog pores.
- Unlike some chemical sunscreens, mineral sunscreens don't harm coral reefs or other marine life.
- Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide offer protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Mineral sunscreens don't contain the hormone-disrupting chemicals found in some traditional sunscreens.
So, while we're definitely keeping an eye on the research around those tricky chemical ingredients, we're also excited about the growing availability of natural, effective sunscreens.
Sky & Sol Sunscreen: Where Sunshine Meets Soul Care
Fun fact: Sky & Sol sunscreen was born on the slopes of Mt. Kilimanjaro! Our CEO, while trekking through the intense African sun, had an epiphany: why were there no sunscreens that were actually good for your skin, and also natural?
That question sparked a journey that led to the creation of Sky & Sol – a sun protection solution that's as good for your skin. Our philosophy is simple: If you wouldn't put it in your mouth, don't put it on your skin.
Because your skin is like a sponge, absorbing everything you apply. That's why we've ditched the harmful chemicals and formulated our sunscreen with only seven natural, safe-for-you ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen!
We're on board with the anti-sunscreen movement in one major way: we believe that traditional sunscreens are often packed with questionable chemicals that don't belong on our bodies.
We agree that it's time to rethink what we're putting on our skin, especially when it comes to something as important as sun protection.
But we don't believe that ditching sunscreen altogether is the answer. The sun's rays can be damaging, leading to premature aging, sunburn, and even skin cancer.
We believe in enjoying the sunshine safely, and that means protecting our skin with a sunscreen that's truly good for us.
Why Sky & Sol Sunscreen Is A Game-Changer?
We've extended our commitment to natural, nourishing skin care beyond sun protection. Explore our range of products, including our deeply moisturizing tallow balm and our protective, soothing lip balm.
Because here at Sky & Sol, we believe that every inch of your skin deserves the best care, from head to toe.