The Safest Sunscreens That Provide Protection—Not Toxins, Expert Says
Surf's up, the sun's out, and that means one important thing: It's time to butter up! If you're all about making healthy decisions when it comes to products you use on your skin, then you'll be eager to learn about the safest sunscreens on the market that will provide you all-over protection—not toxins.
Wearing sunscreen is not really an option; it's a necessary part of a healthy lifestyle. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, sunscreen will lower your risk of skin precancers and cancers dramatically. In fact, using an SPF 15 sunscreen daily can lower your chances of getting melanoma by as much as 50%, and your risk of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) will decrease by 40%. That's not all. Sunscreen helps you avoid premature aging of the skin, including age spots, wrinkles, and saggy skin.
So now that we've convinced you just how important wearing sunscreen is, read on to find out just how important the sunscreen you put on your body is, too. And next up, don't miss The 6 Best Exercises for Strong and Toned Arms in 2022, Trainer Says.
Choose a sunscreen with naturally occurring mineral ingredients
Dr. Tiffany Libby, Reserveage's resident dermatologist shares with Eat This Not That! some vital information regarding sunscreen. She explains, "There is no evidence at this time that chemical sunscreens when applied to the skin are toxic or post harm. The 2020 FDA study showed that chemicals were detected in the bloodstream, but did not draw conclusions as to what that translates to affect-wise."
Chemicals in your bloodstream don't exactly sound like a healthy, desired end game. After all, you're wearing sunscreen to protect your skin—not feed your body toxins. Dr. Libby suggests finding a sunscreen with naturally occurring mineral ingredients, such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. These ingredients are generally recognized by the FDA as safe and effective.
There are non-toxic sunscreens and brands that provide good protection, and Dr. Libby is here for us with some amazing product suggestions.
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Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50
Whether you have fair skin or are planning to be in full sun, Dr. Libby says, "This lightweight 100% mineral sunscreen stick is my favorite for reapplication, and for applying to kids, especially to tricky areas like close to the eyes." Sun sticks are so convenient to carry with you wherever you go, whether you stash them in your purse, gym bag, fanny pack, or beach bag!
Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen—Family Size
The family size of anything is always an excellent value. Dr. Libby says this sunscreen is made with your safety in mind. It's SPF 50+, water-resistant, and contains 20% non-nano zinc oxide.
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Biossance Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
When it comes to this sunscreen by Biossance, Dr. Libby notes, "This sheer mineral sunscreen is lightweight, blends in beautifully into the skin." It also helps your skin stay moisturized with its hydrating squalene.
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BLUE LIZARD Sensitive Sunscreen SPF 30
This option by BLUE LIZARD is an all-mineral sunscreen lotion, and Dr. Libby tells us this brand is one that dermatologists have trusted for a very long time.
EltaMD UV Physical Broad-Spectrum SPF 41
Dr. Libby explains, "I am a big fan of all EltaMD sunscreens, having tried nearly all of them, and this is one of my favorite all mineral sunscreens from their line which is lightweight and non-comedogenic."
