Sunscreen Health Check

In the world of consumer sales it can be hard to tell fact from fiction when alarms are being sounded. As sunscreen affects children along with just about every other segment of the population, further investigation is merited regarding possible dangers. Following are important facts about the safety of non-organic sunscreens.

Nano particles are a key concern regarding the safety of commercial sunscreens. These are simply particles that are so small that they can access parts of the human body that no commercial product has been able to penetrate before. The harm done by nano particles has not been completely determined yet, but when they consist of toxic materials there is clearly a possibility of risk.

One notorious component of commercial sunscreen is oxybenzone. While the compound provides benefits by protecting the skin, is has also been associated with cell damage, hormone disruption, and allergies. Of particular concern is a trend of low birth weight for girls whose mothers used oxybenzone during pregnancy.

To the relief of many, the FDA announced plans for ensuring the safety of sunscreens back in 1978. Unfortunately, these plans amounted to good intentions and were never completed. In June of 2011 the FDA finally released labeling standards for the commercial sunscreen industry.

Five out of the six active ingredients in sunscreen have been found to mimic estrogen in the human body. Risk groups for these effects include children and breast cancer patients. All of these chemicals were examined in actual breast cancer cells.

SPF ratings provide the public with a measurable assessment of a sunscreen’s effectiveness. However, these ratings do not take into account UVA ultraviolet rays, which can damage the skin and lead to skin cancer. Though not an issue of toxins, many sunscreen products leave the user under-protected and under-informed in this area.

The final word on the negative health effects of sunscreen is yet to be heard. Clear communication and action on the part of the FDA will be helpful to consumers, and the option of organic sunscreens will provide a healthy alternative.

Mark Bennet is a consumer advocate working in Northern California. In addition to writing informative articles, Mark has built helpful websites focused on locating best products and printable coupons.