There are two different ways to define “safe” when it comes to figuring out which sunscreen to choose for your family. The first is understanding if it actually does prevent sunburn and protect your skin. Second, what ingredients does the sunscreen have in it? We bring you two different guides that you can look through to find the best fit for your family taking into account both of these questions.
As a mom with a daughter with very, very sensitive skin we can only use certain brands of sunscreen or we risk allergic reactions and very itchy skin. These guides have been essential to help us navigate all the products out there.
Consumer reports did some testing and rated 82 different sunscreen options. Their main testing criteria is seeing how well it works. This is essential because you want to purchase a sunscreen that is effective. There has been much discussion over the ingredient oxybenzone, as there is evidence it is absorbed into the skin. Consumer Reports does take into account when reviewing their top choices. While research is still new on this ingredient, the FDA has asked sunscreen manufacturers to provide additional safety information on the 12 most common active ingredients to help consumers. Further, there is some push to use mineral sunscreen, but so far consumer reports says they haven’t found a mineral sunscreen that provides excellent protection. You can find their full report, reporting criteria and results at consumerreports.org
The EWG puts out a safe sunscreen guide each season. The rate the best sunscreen for kids, including ingredients & ratings for their overall health safety. EWG has a main focus of providing information on harmful ingredients. The FDA has yet to review much evidence of potential hazards in sunscreen, and has mostly grandfathered in ingredients from the 1970s. EWG seeks to review the data on the ingredients used in sunscreens and provide you information so you can make the best choice for your family. You can find their full list of sunscreens, ingredients, and all the results of their research on ewg.org.
Spring/Summer is here and regardless of the sunscreen you choose for your family, make sure you are being safe in the sun. Sunscreen should not be your primary defense! Follow these tips first.
- Wear clothes to help protect you. Shirts, hats, shorts and pants will protect from UV rays and reduce your risk by 27% (ewg.org)
- Sit in the shade! Bring a canopy or umbrella to keep shade handy.
- Wear sunglasses. They will protect your eyes.
- Plan outdoor activities to prevent overexposure in the sun.
Enjoy the outdoors, be safe & bring on the sun!
