7 Sunscreen Ingredients To Avoid And Why
Sunscreen is an important tool to protect our skin from the harmful effects of the sun, but not all sunscreens are created equal. Some sunscreen ingredients can be harmful to both our skin and the environment. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the sunscreen ingredients to avoid and why.
Oxybenzone
Oxybenzone is a common chemical sunscreen ingredient that absorbs UV rays. However, it has been linked to hormone disruption, allergic reactions, and it can be harmful to coral reefs. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), oxybenzone is a high hazard ingredient and should be avoided.
Octinoxate
Octinoxate is another chemical sunscreen ingredient that absorbs UV rays. It has also been linked to hormone disruption and can be harmful to coral reefs. Octinoxate has been banned or restricted in several places around the world, including Hawaii and the European Union.
Retinyl Palmitate
Retinyl palmitate is a form of vitamin A that is commonly added to sunscreen for its anti-aging properties. However, when exposed to sunlight, retinyl palmitate can break down and produce free radicals that can damage skin cells. The EWG recommends avoiding sunscreens with retinyl palmitate.
Homosalate
Homosalate is a chemical sunscreen ingredient that absorbs UV rays. It has been found to disrupt hormones and can also accumulate in the body over time. The EWG rates homosalate as a moderate hazard ingredient.
Octocrylene
Octocrylene is a chemical sunscreen ingredient that helps stabilize other sunscreen ingredients. However, it can produce free radicals when exposed to sunlight and has been linked to skin irritation. The EWG rates octocrylene as a moderate hazard ingredient.
Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA)
PABA is a chemical sunscreen ingredient that absorbs UVB rays. However, it has been linked to skin irritation, allergic reactions, and can stain clothing. PABA has been largely replaced by other sunscreen ingredients, but it may still be found in some products.
Nano Zinc Oxide
Zinc oxide is a mineral sunscreen ingredient that reflects UV rays. However, nano zinc oxide particles are so small that they can be absorbed into the bloodstream and may have negative health effects. The EWG recommends avoiding sunscreens with nano zinc oxide.
In conclusion, it's important to choose sunscreens that are free of harmful ingredients, not just for the health of our skin, but also for the health of the environment. When shopping for sunscreen, you can look for ROOPAYUR SUNSCREEN MOISTURIZER instead of chemical sunscreens. Also, be sure to read the label carefully and avoid the sunscreen ingredients listed above.