Skin cancer remains the number one cancer in America despite the growing awareness of the importance of SPF protection. More people are lathering up with sunscreen than ever, so why isn’t anything changing? Could the toxic chemicals in sunscreen be to blame? While sunscreen in general helps to protect our skin from the harsh rays of the sun, there are a few chemicals you need to make sure aren’t included in your sunscreen’s list of ingredients.
- Oxybenzone
This toxic chemical is in 56% of sunscreens. While its primary purpose is to absorb ultraviolet light, it can actually be absorbed into your skin as well, increasing the risk of skin cancer and disrupting hormone balance.
- Octinoxate
Octinoxate is another hormone disrupting chemical that produces free radicals that damage skin cells, encouraging premature aging.
- Retinyl Palmitate
This chemical, which is a combination of retinol (Vitamin A) and palmitic acid, is one of the most dangerous ingredients found in sunscreens. Although the antioxidant was initially added to sunscreens because of its anti-aging properties, retinyl palmitate produces free radicals when exposed to UV rays, which may actually accelerate the rate at which malignant cells and skin tumors develop.
- Parabens
While parabens are the second most commonly used ingredients in beauty and skin care products, second only to water, they are also one of the most dangerous. All of the parabens (butyl-, ethyl-, methyl-, and propyl-) mimic the hormone estrogen, which can lead to breast cancer. Parabens can also cause allergic reactions in people with sensitive skin.
- Fragrance
While it’s not as harmful or toxic as other ingredients, it can break out sensitive or acne prone skin.
