Why Should You and Your Family Use Natural Sunscreen?

When the warm season starts, who doesn’t like to enjoy the rays? We agree that outdoor activities make for sweet family moments, but how can you and your family be effectively protected from health hazards? Here is some relevant and necessary information to keep in mind before spending some time in the sun.

First, let’s talk about UVA and UVB. These two types of ultraviolet light, unfortunately, lead to a risk of cancer. UVA goes deeper into the dermis provoking skin aging, while UVB is linked with causing sunburns.

Needless to say, sunscreens are essential for the maintenance of our overall health. On the other hand, some can be harmful given their composition, which is why it’s important to take a good look at your product’s ingredient list and opt for mineral over chemical sunscreens.

The most common sunscreens today use chemical filters like oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate and octinoxate. Oxybenzone and octinoxate are particularly toxic and often allergenic. Both mimic different hormones in the body. Laboratory studies have shown to negatively affect sperm production, increase breast milk toxicity and contribute to endometriosis in females. Studies also suggest that these chemicals are negatively affecting marine life, causing tumors and reproductive disruptions in some sea creatures.

Baby’s skin is much thinner than adult’s skin, thus more easily permeated by the ingredients in their skin care. While it is important for all people to use products with natural ingredients, it is even more vital for babies and children.

Natural sunscreens generally use zinc oxide or titanium oxide. These are non-nano minerals - meaning the molecules are naturally derived and usually too large to pass through the skin. Some studies suggest that less than 0.01% of the most common form of zinc oxide in sunscreen can pass through skin. Compare that to a whopping 9% skin penetration found with oxybenzone. Plus, zinc is a mineral that is naturally found in our bodies anyway.

Today’s conventional baby products contain countless chemicals made from petrochemicals. Many also contain other chemicals that are developmental toxicants. 

Have no fear: Canada’s own Green Beaver has created a complete line of safe, mineral sunscreens that the whole family can enjoy. Choose from a variety of formats and sun protection factors, and are all-natural, biodegradable, non-GMO & cruelty free.