As summer heats up don’t forget to protect your skin. More than 1 million new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed each year, so it’s important to use protection while enjoying the sunny weather.
Choose wisely; a recent study by the Environmental Working Group found that not every sunscreen on the market is reliable.
Of nearly 1,000 name brand sunscreens on the market, only 1 out of 5 provides enough protection, the EWG’s Sunscreen Investigation found. The organization compiled a list of the safest sunscreen products available. Here are their top five:
1. Keys Soap Solar Rx Therapeutic Sunblock SPF 30: This nontoxic, all natural, cosmetic sunblock is not recommended for sun bathing, playing sports or swimming. Made for every day use, this product is not waterproof but adds a 16 percent concentration of uncoated nano-zinc oxide to provide UVA-UVB protection. ($26.95)
2. TruKid Sunny Days Natural Mineral Sunscreen Water Resistant Face and Body Stick SPF 30: The ingredients are all certified organic and include beeswax, aloe vera, rosemary, coconut oil and shea butter. ($10)
3. California Baby No Fragrance SPF 30 Sunblock Stick: It contains organic ingredients and is a chemical-, fragrance- and PABA-free product that offers UVA-UVB broad spectrum protection. ($12.99)
4. Badger Broad Spectrum UVA-UVB Protection SPF 30: This contains at least 60 percent certified organic ingredients and is a physical barrier sunscreen that contains more than 20 percent zinc oxide. ($16)
5. Marie Veronique Skin Therapy Sun Serum Duet: A greaseless, anti-oxidant powder blend, this serum is chemical-free and contains 20 percent zinc oxide. ($99)
If none of these products seem like they will work for you, look for sunscreens that have at least 7 percent zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for better protection. Avoid using sunscreens with added bug repellents to keep your skin from absorbing pesticides. Just remember to use a SPF 30 or higher.
More about eco-friendly skin care
• Find out which five ingredients to avoid when buying summer skin care products.
• Dry skin? Check out Natural Home‘s review of Beyond Organic Detoxifying Cleanser.
• Did you know the FDA doesn’t evaluate ingredients in beauty products? Read about two watchdog groups’ campaign for safer beauty products.
