Safe Sunscreen Options

Now that it's summer and so many of us are wanting to be outside, it's time to talk about sunscreen. Some people will tell you that you need to lather up before going outside to prevent skin cancer development. Others will tell you that sunscreen is full of toxic chemicals that harm your skin more than the sun itself and that you should avoid it at all costs. Personally, I fall somewhere in the middle - not all sunscreen is filled with harmful ingredients, and it's not always safe to avoid using it. While the sun can damage the skin, adequate sun exposure is necessary for vitamin D synthesis. I recommend getting 10-15 minutes of sun exposure before applying a non-toxic sunscreen, unless less time is suggested by your care provider. I get so many questions about this topic, and I hope that the insight I am sharing helps. Here are some brands that I love:

1. Badger Balm

   1. Badger Active Mineral Sunscreen Cream, SPF 30

   2. Badger Sport Mineral Sunscreen Cream, SPF 40

2. All Good

   1. All Good Sunstick, Unscented, SPF 30

   2. All Good Sunscreen Butter, 50+

3. ATTITUDE

   1. Mineral Sunscreen, Fragrance-Free, SPF 30

4. Butterbean Organics

   1. Original Healthy Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30

5. Earth Mama

   1. Tinted Mineral Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 25 & 40

6. Eco Logical Skin Care

   1. All Natural Face Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30+

7. Pacific Beach Organics Riptide Sunscreen Lotion, Tinted, SPF 32

8. Raw Elements

   1. Face + Body Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30
      

If you're interested in making your own sunscreen, here is a recipe I recommend!

1. Dr Axe's Recipe:

   1. Start by getting a mason jar and add the following ingredients

      1. 3/4 c coconut oil

      2. 10 drops of lavender oil

      3. 1 tbsp pomegranate oil

      4. 2 tbsp shea butter

   2. Place jar in a saucepan on medium heat

   3. Next, add 2 tbsp zinc oxide

   4. Stir well

   5. Store in a cool place