First thing I want you to know about sun exposure is that it is a GOOD thing, and we need it.
Sun exposure impacts immune function, melatonin production, serotonin levels, circadian rhythm and nitric oxide production. Growing evidence is showing regular exposure to sunlight can help prevent a number of illnesses including cancer, hypertension and diabetes.
Chemical vs Mineral Sunscreen
Chemical sunscreens are technically sun filters. They absorb the sun's energy and release it back into the air as heat. Mineral sunscreens are physical sunscreens. They sit on the surface of the skin and scatter or reflect sun's rays away from the skin.
Oxybenzone is the number one active ingredient in most chemical sunscreens. According to the CDC, 97% of people have this chemical in their blood. It is a hormone disruptor linked to issues with estrogen and testosterone production as well as other health issues.
Non-nano zinc oxide is the type of sunscreen you should look for. Zinc is a mineral that is the active ingredient in mineral sunscreens and is the safest choice. Non-nano means that the particles are not so small that they will be absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin.
Other toxins to look for in sunscreens: avobenzone - petrochemical, homosalate - hormone disruptor, octinoxate - hormone disruptor, octocrylene - possible carcinogen, fragrance - hormone disruptor.
Indoor light
Blue light is the highest energy light in the visible spectrum. Its high energy allows for deep penetration into the skin. Studies show that blue light from screens can contribute to unstable molecules that can damage skin cells, including pigment changes, by breaking down collagen and elastin.
Spray Sunscreens
Spray sunscreens can contain toxic propellant chemicals which are then sprayed into the air and can be inhaled through the lungs.
The preferred method and what Beautycounter uses is air.
Mamas
In one study, 80 percent of the chemicals detected in maternal blood samples were also detected in the umbilical cord blood samples, indicating that they passed through the placenta and entered the fetal environment.
Oxybenzone, homosalate and octocrylene found specifically in sunscreen have also been found in breastmilk.
What products you decide to use matter.
In summary, do not fear the sun. Everyone can benefit from moderate sun exposure. When you need a sunscreen due to prolonged exposure, choose a safer one such as Beautycounter's.
Shop Beautycounter's Countersun here
xo, Madison
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