BEST SUNSCREEN FOR KIDS
In the realm of sun protection, the choices we make can have a lasting impact not only on our skin but also on the health of our planet's precious ecosystems. We cherish our moments under the sun, whether it's lounging on a sandy beach, hiking through verdant trails, or exploring vibrant cities. However, that fiery ball 92,000,000 miles away can definitely have some negative side effects on our bodies.
It goes without saying that we NEED sunlight to survive. The earth is positioned in what is called the “Goldilocks Zone” which means we’re the only planet in our solar system that is the perfect distance from the sun where it’s not too hot and not too cold for liquid water to exist on the planet’s surface.
In other words, if it weren’t for our perfect proximity to the sun, life as we know it wouldn’t exist. Our skin is the first line of defense against the sun and one way we protect our skin against its harmful effects is by using sunscreen.
Sunscreen can be a bit of an overwhelming topic so I want to divide this topic into two sections.
Physical Blockers (Reef-Safe) vs. Chemical Blockers
Why You Should Avoid Chemical-Based Sunscreen
Understanding SPF
Physical Blockers vs. Chemical Blockers
Physical blockers use Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide to reflect the sun’s rays by acting as a physical barrier – these tend to be quite thick and aren’t super easy to apply on the skin. Whereas Chemical Blockers absorb the sun’s rays. They are less thick in texture which makes the application process a lot easier.
THE PROBLEM WITH CHEMICAL-BASED SUNSCREENS
Simply put, the majority of sunscreen is quite problematic. This is because the chemicals used in them are toxic to the human body as well as organisms in the ocean. These products typically include a combination of these chemicals as their active ingredients: oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate and octinoxate.
These chemicals can be found circulating in your blood and can cause lasting damage. Oxybenzone and homosalate, to name two, have been found to alter hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and has been found in breast milk. Not good stuff.
In terms of the environment, sunscreens with these ingredients have been linked to coral bleaching, the decrease in fertility and reproduction of fish, and it can impact the growth of healthy green algae.
To make things more complicated, you can’t just rely on labels on sunscreen. The term “reef safe” is very common but isn’t a 100% guarantee that it doesn’t include some of these harmful chemicals. That kind of labeling isn’t currently regulated and might just be a marketing tactic.
UNDERSTANDING SPF
SPF stands for “sun protection factor” and it measures how much UVB is blocked from penetrating the skin.
SPF 15 blocks 93% of UVB radiation
SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB radiation
SPF 50 blocks 98% of UVB radiation
SPF 100 blocks 99% of UVB radiation
You should apply sunscreen 30-45 minutes BEFORE extended sun exposure to allow it to bind to your skin giving you the most effective protection.
The bottom line is the sun can be quite toxic to our skin if too much exposure takes place. By opting for reef-safe sunscreens and embracing sustainable sun protection habits, we can enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while preserving the natural world for generations to come. So, before embarking on your next family adventure, remember to pack your reef-safe sunscreen and embrace the power of eco-friendly sun protection.
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