Summer is here and the sun is shining. We all know we need some sunburn protection but conventional sunburn products are a toxic soup. So what's a holistic mom to do? Let's start by getting informed!
Melanoma is on the rise and excessive skin exposure is a concern on many fronts. According to Dr. Joe Mercola, sunscreen may not be the answer. The ingredient list in your everyday sunscreen can make your head spin: methylparaben, benzophenone-3, phthalates, parabens, oh my! What's more, products make some powerful claims about their SPFs but according to the Environmental Working Group sunscreens with 55-100+ ratings block just 1-2% more sunburn rays than an SPF 30. Even your everyday SPF moisturizer may not be doing its job, warns EWG, as 1 in 5 that they tested offered little protection from UVA rays.
Organic and "natural" products are no easy solution. This month's Organic Spa Magazine features their Skin-Care Guide packed with product reviews to give you the truth behind the labels. Helpful categories for each product include: active ingredients, what they liked, and where there is room to improve. The guide gives you practical insights to avoid dangerous ingredients and also to pick a sunscreen that doesn't feel too greasy or difficult to apply. Before you hit the beach, you'll want to pick up this issue!
Even armed with sunscreen, keep in mind that some of the best defense against skin cancer depends not only on what you put on your skin, but what you put in your body. Vitamin D is essential for health and well-being and ensuring that our diets contain a balanced omega 6:3 ratio can make a big difference. Feed your body, protect your skin, and eliminate the toxins for a happy, healthy summer!
Thanks for this post. I've always been curious if sunscreen was really worth the risk. Look at all the junk in it! Now I know!
ReplyDelete