Wednesday, May 14, 2014

I am a sunscreen freak. I wrote an article for Know It Mom about sunscreen several years ago, and here I am doing another one - only because using a truly protective and safe sunscreen is SO important.
Always buy a broad spectrum sunscreen because it will protect against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays accelerate aging and may suppress the immune system. UVB rays cause sun burning, and both types of rays can cause skin cancer. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has done research on sunscreens and rate them according to their safety.
I always check with the EWG before I buy any sunscreen: EWG Sunscreen Guide
If you don't have time to hunt down your own, you're in luck! I looked up some of the highest rated ones with EWG and then read the Amazon reviews on them which helped me find two that I really LOVE this year. . .
My family and I are using Tru Kid Sport water resistant SPF 30 for the days when we are in water, and then we use DeVita Solar Body Moisturizer SPF 30 on other days when we aren't in water but are outside for long periods.
They are both safe for sensitive skin and were both given a 1 rating with EWG, which is the best rating possible. Some sunscreens go on really thick or leave you looking ghost-like, but these two really absorb well and I like the texture vs. many other sunscreens I have tried.
Here are the links to the EWG's recommendations on the ones I bought:
Tru Kid
DeVita Solar Body
For a couple of years now I have also used DeVita Solar Protective on my face if I will be in the sun at all. It's absolutely wonderful stuff! Here is the link for that:
DeVita Solar Protective
One reason I am so passionate about sunscreen safety is because there are so many main-stream sunscreens out there that contain Retinyl Palmitate. What's that? Here is a quote that I found on the EWG's website: "
About RETINYL PALMITATE (VITAMIN A PALMITATE): Retinyl palmitate is an ingredient composed of palmitic acid and retinol (Vitamin A). When exposed to UV light, retinol compounds break down and produce toxic free radicals that can damage DNA and cause gene mutations, a precursor to cancer. Recently available data from an FDA study indicate that retinyl palmitate, when applied to the skin in the presence of sunlight, may speed the development of skin tumors and lesions. FDA also raised a concern that extensive, daily skin application of vitamin A creams may build up in the woman’s body a high enough level of Vitamin A that may be toxic to the developing fetus.
Many anti-aging creams contain Retinyl Palmitate as well, so if you are using one with that ingredient, be safe and just use it at night.
I hope that you all protect yourself and your family in the sunshine this summer and have fun!