15/07/2025
Are you aware of the concerns with sunscreen ingredients on the market?
Here are the top sunscreen ingredients of concern for human health, based on current scientific literature, FDA findings, and environmental health research:
â ď¸ 1. Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3)
Why itâs concerning:
Acts as an endocrine disruptor, potentially altering estrogen and testosterone levels
Linked to reduced fertility, thyroid disruption, and developmental toxicity
Absorbs easily into the bloodstream; detected in urine, blood, and breast milk
May increase skin absorption of other chemicals
Status: Banned in Hawaii, Palau, and other reef-sensitive regions
Not considered "GRASE" (Generally Recognized as Safe and Effective) by the FDA
â ď¸ 2. Octinoxate (Octyl methoxycinnamate)
Why itâs concerning:
Also an endocrine disruptorâmay mimic hormones and interfere with the thyroid
Can cause allergic reactions and photo-sensitivity
Toxic to marine life and coral reefs
Status:Banned in Hawaii and other locations due to reef damage
Found in many conventional face and body sunscreens
â ď¸ 3. Homosalate
Why itâs concerning:
Potential to disrupt hormone function, especially estrogen and androgen activity
May accumulate in the body faster than it breaks down, raising toxicity concerns
Enhances skin pe*******on of other chemicals
Status: Under FDA review; safety data still considered incomplete
â ď¸ 4. Octocrylene
Why itâs concerning:
Breaks down into benzophenone, a known carcinogen and endocrine disruptor
May cause oxidative stress and cell damage in skin
Can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive skin types
Status: Banned or restricted in parts of Europe and being monitored globally
â ď¸ 5. Avobenzone
Why itâs concerning:
Chemically unstable in sunlight, often paired with other ingredients (like octocrylene) to stabilize
Can degrade into harmful byproducts with UV exposure
May cause skin irritation or allergic reactions
Status: Still widely used; requires stabilizers to reduce photo-degradation
đŤ Other Concerns:
Fragrance and preservatives (like parabens, phthalates) often added to chemical sunscreens can also cause: Skin irritation, Hormone disruption, Respiratory issues (especially in sprays)
Check out our Low Tax stories for Sunscreen Alternatives!