Wandering in the sunscreen aisle with the goal of finding a safe and effective sunscreen is an overwhelming task.
Use the EWG (Environmental Working Group) Sunscreen database to guide you in finding the best sunscreen for you and your family: http://www.ewg.org/2015sunscreen/
Important highlights of the EWG research on sun safety:
- Look for sunscreens free of: Vitamin A, oxybenzone, parabens, PABA, phthalates, fragrances and nano-sized particles.
- Avoid sunscreen spray and powders which pose an inhalation risk and lack effective skin coverage.
- Avoid High SPF (50+) sunscreen brands. High SPF brands can mislead us into skipping applications or causing too long of an exposure to the sun. Apply the recommended amount of sunscreen and reapply as directed.
- Follow smart sun practices: Wear clothing and hats to shield you from the sun, find shade, avoid peak times for UV rays, and get UV protective sunglasses.
- Checkout the sunscreen safety rating of your brand in the database. Check the expiry date, as well as any changes in the texture, colour, and consistency of your sunscreen.
- Ensure you are getting enough Vitamin D. Check your Vitamin D levels with your physician and naturopathic doctor to determine the dosage of Vitamin D that’s right for you!