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Every summer we lather on sprays and lotions to protect ourselves from the sun’s harmful rays unaware that the ingredients in our sunscreens can be just as harmful. 

California Baby Sun Stick

I first researched and blogged about this last May, but thought it was worth revisiting as we prepare for summer (even though it doesn’ t feel like it right now.)    

According to the Environmental Working Group, after looking at 783 sunscreens available in the U.S. they found that only 16% are both safe and effective.  Yikes!  That means about more than 80 % of aren’t getting the protection we hoped for. In many sunscreens, it’s the ingredients that are at fault – particularly Oxybenzone.  The CDC found traces of Oxybenzone in 97% of Americans tested and the chemical has been linked to allergies, hormone disruption, cellular damage and low birth weight. 

If you’re looking to protect your skin this summer (and you should be) here are few healthy tips to get you started. 

Common sense tactics for sun safety:

• Don’t rely on sunscreen as your only form of protection
• Wear sun hats or ball caps to shade your face and protect your scalp
• Pick up a few lightweight long-sleeve shirts for ballgames, picnics, etc.
• Use shade umbrellas on patio tables, at the pool and at the beach
• Wear a rash-guard with your swimsuit to cover more skin
• Save the sunscreen for extended periods of sun exposure and choose wisely.  Ten minutes of unprotected sun exposure  can actually be good for you allowing your body to absorb much needed vitamin D. 

Healthier Sunscreen Options:

• Aubrey Organics – www.aubrey-organics.com
• Badger Balm – www.badgerbalm.com
• California Baby – www.californiababy.com
• Dermalogica – www.dermstore.com 
• Natria Sun Screen – www.naturessunshine.com 
• UV Natural – www.uvnatural.com

Be sure to plan ahead.  Most of the sunscreens listed above are tough to find in stores and have to be ordered online.  Other than that,  enjoy summer and the sun while it lasts because winter always comes too fast.