Physical vs. Chemical Sunscreen

There are two main types of sunscreens available to consumers. Physical sunscreen (sunblock) is made from natural minerals and covers the entire surface of your skin, blocking or reflecting both UVA and UVB rays. Though past sunblocks have been criticized for leaving a thick, white residue, many brands today are lightweight and go on clear. The other option, chemical sunscreen, contains synthetic ingredients that absorb light instead of reflecting it. The problem is these ingredients can become toxic and irritate skin or actually create harmful free radicals when the sun's UV rays are absorbed.

Ingredients to Avoid

When shopping for sunscreen, read the product labels carefully and choose one without toxic chemicals. Though they may sound non-threatening, oxybenzone, octinoxate and homosalate, common ingredients that help other additives absorb more quickly into the skin, all can also cause serious hormone disruption. Retinyl palmitate, an antioxidant made from retinol (vitamin A) and palmitic acid, may actually accelerate the growth of malignant cells or skin tumors and should be avoided at all costs. Finally, steer clear of parabens that begin with butyl, ethyl, methyl or propyl.

Natural Minerals

Minerals have officially taken the skin care world by storm. They have been popping up in everything from lotion to foundation, and they are now dominating the safe sunscreen market. Natural minerals like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide offer full-spectrum protection without absorbing harmful rays into your skin. Look for products that also contain hydrating ingredients like green tea extract, shea butter or jojoba oil to replenish vital nutrients your skin may lose during a day spent in the sun.

Safe Sunscreen Checklist

According to consumer watchdog, the Environmental Working Group, in order to be classified as "safe," sunscreen must be free of oxybenzone and retinyl palmitate, have a sun protection factor (SPF) no higher than 50, and offer broad spectrum protection against UVA (responsible for cellular damage and premature aging) and UVB rays (cause sunburn). Like many others, you may think slathering on a sunscreen with the highest possible SPF available is best, but research has shown there is no real added protection once you go above 50.