10/20/2025
đ§ŞMany Contain Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals
Common sunscreen chemicals like oxybenzone, octinoxate, avobenzone, homosalate, and octocrylene can be absorbed through the skin and enter the bloodstream.
Research shows these compounds can:
⢠Mimic or block natural estrogen, testosterone, and thyroid hormones
⢠Accumulate in breast milk, urine, and blood
⢠Interfere with reproductive and developmental health
𧏠The FDA has acknowledged that many of these ingredients are systemically absorbed and remain in the body for days or weeks.
đĽ They Block UVB â the Rays That Help You Make Vitamin D
Most commercial sunscreens block both UVA and UVB rays. But UVB light is what triggers your skin to produce vitamin D, a hormone essential for:
⢠Bone health
⢠Immunity
⢠Hormone regulation
⢠Cancer prevention
Blocking UVB while still letting in UVA (which penetrates deeper) may increase the risk of certain cancers and accelerate skin aging, since UVA causes oxidative stress without the balancing benefit of vitamin D production.
đż They Disrupt the Skin Microbiome
Your skin has its own delicate microbiome that thrives in natural sunlight. Sunscreen chemicals, preservatives, and fragrances can:
⢠Disrupt this microbial balance
⢠Increase sensitivity, rashes, and inflammation
⢠Interfere with your skinâs natural photoprotection mechanisms
đ§ They Create a False Sense of Security
Many people stay in the sun longer because they âfeel protected,â but that can actually lead to more oxidative damage over time, since chemical sunscreens donât fully block harmful rays and may degrade in sunlight.
𪸠Environmental & Ocean Damage
Chemical sunscreens wash off in the water and are toxic to coral reefs, fish, and marine life.
Hawaii and several island nations have banned oxybenzone and octinoxate for this reason.
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Better Options
If you need protection during intense midday sun, use:
⢠Mineral sunscreens with non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide
⢠Natural oils with low-level SPF (like red raspberry seed or carrot seed oil, though not substitutes for long exposure)
⢠Hats, shade, and light clothing instead of chemical barriers
⢠Gradual sun exposure starting in the Spring to build your skinâs natural melanin protection
