XML RSS
Add to My Yahoo!
Add to My MSN
Add to Google

Home
Updates
Newsletter
Dry Skin
Oily Skin
Natural Brands
Product Guide
Nontoxic Care
Healthy Skin
Sun Protection
Contact Us
Privacy Policy
About
Site Map
 

The Best Sunblock in a Tube?

What is the "best sunblock" to guard your skin from the damaging rays of the sun? Here are the factors to consider:

  • Choose a "broad spectrum" sunscreen, which protects against both UVA and UVB* rays.
  • Select an SPF30 or higher. SPF30 offers significantly more protection than SPF15.
  • Opt for a natural, mineral-based sunblock. This forms a physical barrier that reflects UV rays before they even touch your skin.

The Best Sunscreen Ingredients

Sunblock

The minerals zinc oxide and titanium dioxide both provide broad spectrum protection. Unlike some chemical sunscreens, mineral blocks are usually well tolerated by people with sensitive skin.

However, you should be aware of the following...

Caveats

First, there is a concern that titanium dioxide may be carcinogenic... especially if it is "micronized." The evidence is inconclusive at this time.

What is micronization? It is a relatively new technology that converts minerals into minute "nano particles." This eliminates the white ghost factor zinc oxide is famous for (think of the white-nosed lifeguard).

The problem is these ultrafine nano particles may be absorbed by your skin. The safety of this process is currently being studied worldwide.

Note: micronized minerals are also used in some cosmetics.

Solutions

Since most mineral-based sunblocks utilize micronized particles, what does this mean for you? What is the best sunblock?

Every sunscreen/sunblock has a downside. The best choice is to find the least toxic product available at this time. It’s a difficult decision with no one right answer.

As a first line of defense:

  • Cover up
  • Seek shade
  • Avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. as much as possible

For those times when fun in the sun is calling your name, consider a natural, mineral-based sunblock. Although not perfect, I believe it is better than a chemical sunscreen (many of which contain untested or potentially toxic ingredients). Zinc oxide, as the active ingredient, is my preference.

Mineral Sunblocks:

(some are a bit pricey)
  • U.V. Natural - All natural. Active ingredient: zinc oxide. This originated in Australia, where the sun is brutal and the skin cancer rate high. (My top choice.)
  • Soleo Organics- All natural. Active ingredient: zinc oxide.
  • Dr. Hauschka- All natural. Active ingredient: zinc oxide.

    • The following use titanium dioxide:

  • Lavera - All natural. Active ingredient: titanium dioxide.
  • California Baby - Active ingredient: titanium dioxide. Fragrance free. Largely, but not 100%, natural.
  • Aubrey Organics Green Tea - Active ingredients: titanium dioxide and PABA ester. Be aware that some people are allergic to PABA and its safety is also questioned.
  • Burt's Bees Chemical Free Sunscreen with Hemp Seed Oil - Active ingredient: titanium dioxide. This is 99.11% natural. (Includes artificial fragrance, but it is phlatate free.)

    • Remember, no sunblock, not even the best sunblock, will protect you 100% protection from the sun’s harmful rays. Prevent wrinkles, look younger, and stay healthy. Limit your sun exposure!

    * Note: Currently there are no federal regulations in the US as to what determines adequate protection from UVA and UVB rays.


    Return to top of Best Sunblock


    footer for best sunblock page