Safe Sunscreen
We often just focus on eating a real food diet, getting our workouts in at Ozone, sleeping 7-9 hours per night, and managing stress. Other potential toxins in our environment seldom cross our mind. Don’t get me wrong; all of the things I listed above are REALLY IMPORTANT! But now that you are consciously doing those things, I want you to start looking at other potential toxins in your life that could be affecting your health and wellbeing.
Did You Know?
– Our skin absorbs 60% of any topical product we use – The average woman wears nearly 515 chemicals a day – There are more than 10,000 chemical ingredients permitted for the use of personal care products – These chemicals have been scientifically linked to a range of harmful diseases and bodily reactions I want to address the topic of sunscreen as it is summer and we want to spend as much time outside as we can!
When we lather up with sunscreen, is it really protecting us from skin cancer like we think it is?
There are two types of ultraviolet rays, UVA & UVB. UVB is what tans or burns our skin. The good news with UVB is that we know if we are getting too much as we start to redden and eventually will burn. Most conventional or “broad spectrum” sunscreens filter out the UVB rays. On the other hand, UVA rays penetrate into deeper layers of our skin. That can cause oxidative damage as well as potentially damage our DNA. UVA rays is associated with malignant melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Sunscreens do not block UVA rays. “Skin cancer can develop as a result of excessive sun exposure, and it can happen with or without sunscreen, but the type of sun exposure that makes us vulnerable to cancer is vastly different from the type of sun exposure that boosts our Vitamin D levels and helps prevent cancer and other maladies.” -Liz Wolfe author Skintervention Guide
Commercial Sunscreens
Most commercial sunscreens contain chemical ingredients such as oxybenzone and parabens. Both have been shown to be endocrine (hormone) disruptors in studies of cancer cells. Endocrine disruptors can act like estrogen and may contribute to hormonally mediated cancers. You also want to avoid chemical sunscreens that contain vitamin A (retinyl palmitate) and nanomaterials.
What to Look For in a Sunscreen
If you are going to be in the sun for long periods of time or are prone to sunburn, mineral sunscreens are a great option to make sure you’re safe. Look for mineral-based sunscreens that contain non-nano Zinc or Titanium Dioxide and UVA and UVB protection. Because large amounts are not absorbed into the body, they are much safer. Non-nano Zinc or Titanium Dioxide create a physical barrier on your skin, hence the white residue they leave behind. Why not learn more about improving your health and fitness. Book your Free consultation Today
