Sunscreen Q&A
#1: Is All Sunscreen Created Equal? Current general consensus is in favor of mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as active ingredients. Mineral-based sunscreens are the best physical blockers of UV light, causing light reflection from the skin. While chemical sunscreens do offer broad-spectrum UV coverage, there has been increasing concern regarding the effects of such chemicals on human health and the environment. In one study (Matta et al), 6 active ingredients found in many chemical sunscreens—avobenzone, oxybenzone, octocrylene, homosalata, octisalate and octinocate—were found to be systemically absorbed with topical use, with blood concentrations surpassing the FDA safety threshold. Furthermore, due to concerns regarding coral reef bleaching, Hawaii will be banning on sunscreen containing oxybenzone and octinoxate effective January 2021. Take-away: Always check active ingredients...