Sun-vs-Sunscreen
Why I Avoid Most Sunscreens
DISCLAIMER: All information is for education purposes only and is based on my research, training, and experience.. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or replace health professional advice. Always seek guidance of a medical professional for all health concerns.
1. Regulations for ingredients in our skin products were developed in the 1930’s prior to the use of sunscreen and the toxic ingredients in them, according to Environmental Working Group.
2. The dangers of benzene and derivatives of it have been known for over 100 years. Yet in testing done by Valisure last year, found that about one-third of the products on the market contain some form of benzene which is linked increased risk of cancers such as leukemia. (Some contained 3 times the allowable limit of this toxic chemical. Should any amount be allowed?)
3. Toxic chemicals commonly found in sunscreen products get into our blood stream and accumulate in our body to levels shown to be unhealthy. The chemicals studied were avobenzone, oxybenzone, octocrylene, homosalate, octisalate and octinoxate. In this study published by JAMA in 2019, oxybenzone was found in breast milk, amniotic fluid, blood, and urine. Showing that these chemicals clearly do not just sit on the skin. They are absorbed. (Another study in 2020 confirms the same – absorption into blood stream with one day of use.)
4. The toxic chemicals in sunscreens are absorbed systemically, affecting our brain and other organs as well. Many chemicals used in SPF products are known to be neurotoxins or toxic to our brain cells. 2017 Study.
5. Knowing that the estimated 85,000 different chemicals in our world are largely untested for safety, I would question the use of other chemicals in the sunscreens as well. Many are likely not tested for safety, nor are they tested in combination with other chemicals.
What I do instead
1. I have found that the healthier we are internally, the less apt we are to burn in the sun. That said, we still need to be sensible and not overdo it. Getting sunburn is clearly unhealthy. Getting the proper amount of sunshine is healthy for most people. Eating whole foods rich in antioxidants (berries and veggies like broccoli) and foods balanced in omega-3 and 6 fatty acids (wild caught salmon or grass-fed beef) have been shown to help maintain healthy protective oils in our skin. Of course, one can’t just eat these foods the day of going out in the sun. Regularly consuming foods containing healthy fats and antioxidants, while avoiding unhealthy fats and processed foods is one of the best ways I know to promote vibrant skin from the inside out.
2. Limit exposure to the sun.
3. Use lightweight protective clothing or hats. Okay, I’ll be honest. I am not a hat person. But I do think it is a good idea! 😊
4. Allow your body to make vital Vitamin D by getting a healthy amount of exposure to the sun regularly. We know Vitamin D is critical for our immune system. Allowing our bodies to naturally produce Vitamin D is protective, whereas inadequate amounts of Vitamin D can lead to brain health issues such as depression, decreased cognitive function, Multiple Sclerosis, hormone imbalances, and even dementia. What affects our physical health affects our mental health.
5. Consider using cleaner sunscreen protection for prolonged exposure to the sun. Or try gradually increasing your sun exposure. I recently heard Dr. Stephanie Seneff (PhD from MIT) speak at the ADHD and Autism Summit about how you start with a few minutes in the sun and gradually you can stay out longer without getting burned. Of course, always being sensible. (Clearly, she was not a fan of sunscreen either!) I don’t want to get into recommending certain products. I advise everyone do their own research to determine what is best for them.
6. Have your personal care products tested to see if it contains ingredients that may be stressors for your system. Muscle testing or applied kinesiology is a great option to see if a product tests well for you. No two people are alike, what tests well for one person may not for another.
So I say, safely enjoy sunshine in a controlled, sensible manner that promotes vibrant skin, supports your brain’s health, and your overall wellness!