Dear Alison,
How do I find a sunscreen that is safe and effective? Becky M., Redmond, WA
Even though many of us have only been catching a glimpse of the sun between rain clouds, we have high hopes that the sun will eventually come and with it the need for sunscreen.
Sunscreen is an especially important skin care product to pay attention to as it generally covers much of one’s body and is (supposed to be) slathered on many times throughout the day. Thus creating a lot of exposure to any (potentially harmful) chemical that the product might contain.
Just because a sunscreen (or any product) says “Organic, Made for Kids, Hypoallergenic”, or “All Natural” does not mean that it is indeed free of harmful chemicals and toxins. One of my most trusted resources that does independent testing on thousands of skin care products is Environmental Working Group. I think that they answer this question in a succinct and thorough manner as well as provide printable guides that one can take to the store.
EWG’s Sunscreen Summary-What Works and What’s Safe
EWG’s (Printable) Guide to Safer Sunscreens
Safety Guide to Children’s Personal Care Products
I must say that some of these brands are hard to come by and it’s probably easiest and more cost effective to order what you want online. I’ve had many recommendations for California Baby products as well as Badger. Remember that you can’t just trust a brand name. For example Jason has sunscreen with very high toxicity ratings and 1 that is low. Be careful that you get exactly what EWG is testing.
Happy sunning!
signed,
Drowning in the Northwest
Your partner in health,
Alison
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