Is Your Sunscreen Doing More Harm Than Good?

Hello there!

Welcome back to Esthetician Tip Tuesday!

We all love spending time in the sun, but it’s essential to protect our skin from harmful UV rays.

Today, you’ll explore which sunscreen ingredients you should avoid to ensure your sun protection is both safe and effective.

Oxybenzone: This chemical ingredient is known for absorbing UV radiation but has also been linked to hormone disruption and skin allergies. Oxybenzone is also harmful to the environment, particularly to coral reefs.

Octinoxate: Similar to oxybenzone, octinoxate is a chemical UV filter with the potential to cause hormone disruption and skin allergies. It’s also an environmental hazard, contributing to the destruction of coral reefs.

Homosalate: This chemical filter may have hormone-disrupting effects, and studies suggest that it could accumulate in the body over time.

Octisalate: Despite the fact that it is generally regarded as a safe ingredient, some people may experience allergic reactions to Octisalate, particularly those with sensitive skin.

Octocrylene: Octocrylene is another chemical sunscreen ingredient that may cause skin allergies and irritations.

Now, here are some tips for choosing safer sunscreens:

Opt for mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which provide broad-spectrum protection without the risks associated with chemical filters.

Choose sunscreens with a low EWG rating (Environmental Working Group) to ensure they have fewer harmful ingredients.

Pay attention to the ingredient list and avoid products containing any of the above-mentioned harmful ingredients.

Consider sunscreens that are reef-safe, as these formulations are more environmentally friendly and less likely to contain harmful chemicals.

Remember, protecting your skin from the sun is crucial, but it’s equally important to choose the right sunscreen.

Need help finding the perfect sunscreen for your skin type? Don’t hesitate to book a free virtual or in-person consultation with us, and we’ll be more than happy to assist you.

Stay safe in the sun, and let us know if you found this helpful!

XO,
Maria

Maria Nicole Aesthetics LLC
CT & NYS Licensed Esthetician
(203) 570-5238