Sunshine & Smarts: Protect your Skin without the Toxins

Given that summer is essentially here, I thought it might be helpful to explore the world of safe sunscreens … probably not the most exciting topic, but an important one to think about.

It’s always a challenge to navigate shelves packed with products -trying to figure out which ones work well and have ingredients that won’t compromise our health.

It's always important to remember that our skin is our largest organ — and it absorbs much of what we put on it.

Many ingredients in personal care products can make their way into our bloodstream, which is why choosing clean, non-toxic options really matters.

There’s growing concern around ingredients like oxybenzone, a common UV filter, which has been flagged in ongoing research for its potential health risks.

Given that all four of my kids have been lifeguards, I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about what sunscreen is best — and what won’t break the bank. 

Here’s the truth: not all sunscreens are created equal.

In fact, 1 in 4 sunscreens fail to meet modern safety or protection standards, according to the Environmental Working Group (EWG). Some still contain ingredients that can interfere with hormones, irritate the skin, or even harm marine life — and we’re slathering them on ourselves and our kids without realizing it.

Most traditional sunscreens rely on chemical UV filters like:

• Oxybenzone

• Octinoxate

• Octocrylene

• Avobenzone

• Homosalate

These ingredients can be absorbed into the bloodstream. Research has linked them to hormone disruption, skin irritation, and environmental damage — especially to coral reefs and marine life.

Here’s the kicker: the FDA hasn’t updated sunscreen safety regulations in over 40 years, despite growing scientific concern.

So here are some guidelines to consider when purchasing your summer stock of sunscreen:

1. Mineral sunscreens (lotion based) seem to be the safer choice. 
Instead of chemical filters, look for mineral-based (also called physical) sunscreens, which use:

• Zinc oxide

• Non-nano titanium dioxide

These sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays rather than absorbing them. They’re effective immediately, great for sensitive skin, and much less likely to irritate or disrupt your body’s systems.

You may be concerned about mineral sunscreens leaving a white cast to the skin. I think back to my younger days, and people on the beach with white noses - from a nice application of zinc oxide. 

Well the good news is,  today’s formulations are much improved, blend in more easily, and don't leave that white cast. 

Look for ones labeled:

• Sheer

• Tinted

• Non-nano zinc oxide

These tend to rub in beautifully, without that chalky look.

2. What About Aerosol Sprays?

I get it - spray sunscreen is so convenient, especially with wiggly toddlers or impatient teens.

But unfortunately they are not the best choice, because:

• You can inhale toxic particles (butane, propane, synthetic fragrance)

• They often miss spots, leading to uneven protection

• They’re flammable

• Kids breathe in more per body weight than adults

If you must use a spray, apply it in a well-ventilated area, spray it into your hands first, and rub it in thoroughly. (which probably wipes out the benefits of using the spray in the first place).

3. How can I navigate the shelves of available sunscreens, and be assured that I'm making a good decision? 

There are a few resources that I use to help me make my buying decisions: 

EWG Sunscreen Guide – Search by brand, SPF, or ingredient

Think Dirty App – Scan products for instant toxicity ratings

INCI Decoder – Helps you decode what each ingredient does

I tend to use EWG.org most often to research products (like skincare and cleaning) before I purchase.  

Here is a little more detail on who they are and what they do: 

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4. And while I don't typically like to recommend specific products, I also understand the pain of “where do I begin?!"  

Here are some brands that are highly rated for safety and efficacy through EWG.org:

• ThinkSport SPF 50+ ✅ (EWG Rating: 1)
  Non-nano zinc, water resistant, rubs in surprisingly well.

• Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral SPF 30 ✅ (EWG Rating: 1–2)
  Fragrance-free, budget-friendly, great for sensitive skin.

• Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc SPF 30 ✅ (EWG Verified)
  Especially good for kids, rubs in nicely.

• Hello Bello Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 ✅ (EWG Rating: 1)
  Affordable, available at Walmart, Target, and online.

• Attitude Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 ✅ (EWG Verified)
  Fragrance-free, reef-safe, and EWG approved.

• Goddess Garden Organics SPF 50 Sport ✅ (EWG Rating: 1–2)
  Lightweight, great for outdoor activities.

• Trader Joe’s Zinc Oxide SPF 40 ✅ (EWG Rating: 1)
  A hidden gem! Easy to apply and very affordable.

In Summary...

We should enjoy the sun — it boosts vitamin D, mood, and movement.

But our sunscreen should protect us without introducing unnecessary health risks.

 🧴 Choose mineral-based lotions
🔍 Be a label reader
📱 Use helpful tools

❤️ And remember — shade, hats, and timing go a long way.

Your skin — and your health — are worth protecting the right way.