Hey First name / friend,
As you start planning your next outdoor adventure with the warmer weather, let's chat about the sunscreen you're about to slather on and the potential toxins that might be in it.
You see, sunscreen isn't just about avoiding a sunburn; it's about safeguarding our skin from harmful UV rays. But did you know that some sunscreens can contain ingredients that are not only harmful to us but also to the environment? Yep, it's true, this is why reading labels is important.
When we apply sunscreen, those ingredients can seep into our skin, making their way into our bloodstream, and some sunscreens have some “not so great ingredients” in them. Plus, it's not just our bodies we need to worry about; those “not so great ingredients” can also find their way into our oceans, harming marine life and coral reefs.
So let's delve a bit deeper into the ingredients commonly found in sunscreens and learn how you can pick the RIGHT kind to avoid too many added toxins in your body.
☀️ Zinc Oxide: This mineral is a powerhouse when it comes to sun protection. It forms a physical barrier on the skin, reflecting and scattering both UVA and UVB rays. Zinc oxide is gentle on the skin and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
☀️ Titanium Dioxide: Similar to zinc oxide, titanium dioxide is another mineral that creates a protective barrier on the skin's surface. It effectively blocks UV rays, providing broad-spectrum protection. Like zinc oxide, it's gentle and suitable for sensitive skin.
☀️ Oxybenzone: This chemical sunscreen ingredient absorbs UV rays, but it has come under scrutiny due to its potential hormone-disrupting effects. Studies have shown that oxybenzone can mimic hormones in the body, leading to concerns about its impact on reproductive health and development.
- Octinoxate (Octyl methoxycinnamate): Another chemical sunscreen filter, octinoxate absorbs UVB rays. However, like oxybenzone, it has been linked to hormone disruption and has raised concerns about its environmental impact, particularly on coral reefs.
- Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene: These are additional chemical filters commonly found in sunscreens. While they provide UV protection, some studies suggest they may also disrupt hormone function and have potential health risks.
So, what sunscreen should you choose?
Look for sunscreens labeled as "mineral" or "physical" sunscreens, which use ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These minerals sit on top of the skin, creating a barrier that reflects and scatters UV rays, without seeping into our bodies or harming marine life.
By choosing a mineral sunscreen, not only are you protecting yourself, but you're also doing your part to protect our precious oceans. It's a win-win!
Now, if you're eager to dive deeper into the world of toxins and their impact on our bodies, I highly recommend checking out my book
Lymph Link. It's packed with valuable insights and practical tips for living a toxin-free life. You can also
book a telehealth appointment with me if you have any questions.
