Check the label of your sunscreen or sunblock for both the active and inactive ingredients. It’s best if your sunscreen contains only the active ingredient zinc oxide (it may also contain titanium dioxide). But if your topical sunscreen/sunblock has any of the following toxic chemicals it could actually be doing more harm than good! Here’s a list of some of the sunscreen ingredients to avoid:
- Avobenzone (Parsol 1789, Eusolex 9020, Escalol 517)
- Oxybenzone (benzophenone-3, Eusolex 4360, Escalol 567)
- Dioxybenzone (benzophenone-8)
- Octocrylene
- Sulisobenzone (benzophenone-4)
- Phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid (ensulizole)
- Homosalate
- Cinoxate
- PABA (4-Aminobenzoic acid, para-aminobenzoic acid)
- Padimate O (OD-PABA, octyldimethyl PABA, Escalol 507)
- Trolamine salicylate
- Octyl methoxycinnamate (OMC)
In addition, avoid sunscreen lotions with the micronized versions of these compounds (use only un-micronized versions):
- Zinc oxide (micronized varieties)
- Titanium dioxide (micronized varieties)
Finally, this common ingredient in some sunscreens, in addition to lotions and cosmetics, may increase the damage that is done to your skin during sun exposure, so be sure to avoid it:
- Vitamin A (as retinyl palmitate)
Please Note: This is an incomplete list, as there are many other ingredients used in sunscreen lotions that can be harmful. However, the most common sunscreen ingredients to avoid are here, and by following these recommendations you are much more likely to find a sunscreen lotion that is as helpful and healthy as possible.
You can find more information about some of these chemicals from non-biased parties like the Environmental Working Group (EWG).
Here are some topical sunscreen lotion recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What sunscreen ingredients should you avoid for safer sun protection?
Some sunscreen ingredients are commonly questioned due to concerns about skin irritation, hormone disruption, or environmental impact. Ingredients such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, homosalate, octocrylene, and PABA are often discussed in safety reports and dermatology articles. Many consumers prefer mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide because they are considered gentler on sensitive skin and provide broad-spectrum UV protection with lower absorption concerns.
Q2. Why do some people choose mineral sunscreen over chemical sunscreen?
Mineral sunscreens use active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that sit on the skin’s surface and help reflect UV rays. Many people prefer these formulas because they are generally considered suitable for sensitive skin and are less likely to cause irritation. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, absorb UV rays and may contain ingredients linked to irritation or environmental concerns. Dermatologists often recommend mineral sunscreens for children and people with reactive skin.
Q3. Can sunscreen ingredients be absorbed into the body?
Research has shown that certain chemical sunscreen ingredients can be absorbed into the bloodstream after repeated application. This does not automatically mean the ingredients are unsafe, but it has encouraged regulatory agencies and researchers to request more long-term safety studies. Ingredients such as oxybenzone, octocrylene, avobenzone, and homosalate have been studied for systemic absorption, which is why some consumers prefer mineral sunscreen alternatives.
Q4. Are all chemical sunscreens harmful to the skin?
Not all chemical sunscreens are considered harmful, and many are approved for use in skincare products. However, certain ingredients may trigger irritation, allergic reactions, or sensitivity in some individuals. The overall safety of sunscreen also depends on formulation quality, skin type, and frequency of use. Experts still strongly recommend daily sun protection because the risks of UV damage and skin cancer are far greater than avoiding sunscreen altogether.
Q5. How can you choose a safer sunscreen for daily use?
When selecting a sunscreen, look for broad-spectrum protection with SPF 30 or higher. Many dermatologists recommend choosing fragrance-free formulas and mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, especially for sensitive skin. It is also important to avoid expired products, check ingredient labels carefully, and reapply sunscreen regularly for effective UV protection. Choosing reef-friendly and dermatologist-tested options may provide additional peace of mind.
Written by Sunsafe Rx Team |
