The safety of commercial sunscreens has received a lot of press lately. All segments of the population are affected, but children and breast cancer patients seem to carry the highest risks. Below is a summary of health findings related to non-organic sunscreens.
Nano particles are a key concern regarding the safety of commercial sunscreens. These are simply particles that are so small that they can access parts of the human body that no commercial product has been able to penetrate before. The harm done by nano particles has not been completely determined yet, but when they consist of toxic materials there is clearly a possibility of risk.
One notorious component of commercial sunscreen is oxybenzone. While the compound provides benefits by protecting the skin, is has also been associated with cell damage, hormone disruption, and allergies. Of particular concern is a trend of low birth weight for girls whose mothers used oxybenzone during pregnancy.
The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) came close to enacting regulations for sunscreen back in 1978, but the project was never finalized. Now, decades later, many statements made by sunscreen vendors include terms that are neither defined nor measured. Only consumers with research time to invest can make a reasonable assessment of the products.
Regarding the active ingredients in sunscreen, five out of six have been found to behave like estrogen in humans, and at least one of these chemicals is found in virtually all commercial sunscreen products. The greatest potential risk lies with breast cancer patients and children.
Taking a look at effectiveness, the popular SPF ratings do not take into account the harmful UVA rays present in sunlight. Many popular sunscreens do not provide the consumer with enough protection against exposure to UVA rays. Though not a matter of toxins, this is certainly a health issue.
The verdict is still out regarding the health risks of commercial sunscreens. All parties would benefit from further clarification on the part of the FDA, and, if a consumer does not want to wait, organic sunscreens provide a safer alternative.
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