Sunscreen Smarts: Myths, Mistakes, What’s Toxic—and Choosing Clean, Safe Protection
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The sun lifts our spirits and gives us that all-important Vitamin D, but let’s be real—it also comes with some heavy baggage. UVA and UVB rays can cause everything from sunburn and premature aging to serious health concerns like skin cancer. So let’s break it all down: what actually works, what might be harming us more than helping, and how to choose safer, smarter sun protection.
Be sure to keep reading for NON-TOXIC SUNSCREEN OPTIONS, and loads of golden nuggets.
As mentioned in the blog post The Need to Knows of Enjoying the Sun Safely, it’s important to approach sun protection as a full sun-care regimen. I talked about the importance of antioxidants internally. Well, they are just as important externally. There are herbs and oils that can help boost your skin’s ability to handle the sun–and recover from it–if you use them in your daily summer skincare regimen.
So, the moral of this story is…Sunscreen is NOT the only option.
Sunscreen Is Not Your First Line of Defense
Sunscreen should be your last line of defense, not your first. Shade, protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses should always come first. For those bits of skin you can’t cover, that’s where sunscreen can help.
As mentioned in my post "The Need to Knows of Enjoying the Sun Safely," it’s important to approach sun care as a full-body, full-lifestyle regimen. That includes antioxidants—internally and externally. Herbs and oils can help your skin handle sun exposure and recover more effectively.
The moral of the story? Sunscreen is helpful, but not the whole answer.
How to Use Sunscreen Properly
Use a zinc oxide or titanium dioxide-based sunscreen.
Apply a full ounce (about a shot glass) to cover all exposed areas.
Reapply every 2 hours, or more often if you’re sweating or swimming.
Read product labels: Some sunscreens need 20 minutes before sun exposure, others work instantly.
Always shower off sunscreen at the end of the day and follow with soothing skincare (like Aloe, Witch Hazel, or Green Tea).
And yes, diet, pollution, and skincare routines all affect how your skin handles the sun.
THE DARKSIDE OF SUNSCREEN
Sunscreen sprays and powders have questionable safety, because of possible inhalation hazards and questionable efficacy since most of it ends up in the air.
Many are HIGHLY TOXIC, not only to us, but the environment including the reefs when using the toxic ingredients in the ocean. Natural mineral ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are safer but still require scrutiny. And what’s most frustrating is that the FDA will not admit that chemical sunscreen ingredients are toxic or harmful in any way, though websites like the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, Natural News, Made Safe, and the EWG claim seemingly endless citations stating otherwise.
To Sunscreen or to Sunblock?
Sunblock, (physical sunscreens), contain trace amounts of zinc or titanium dioxide. These ingredients work by reflecting and scattering both the UVA and UVB rays and prevent them from entering the body. And as mentioned above, this word is no longer able to be used for natural mineral protection.
Sunscreens work by absorbing harmful UV rays and neutralizing them before they can damage the body. “Broad Spectrum Protection” will contain both absorbing and physical sunscreen ingredients.
Why All This Matters
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, just one blistering sunburn during childhood or adolescence can nearly double a person’s risk of developing melanoma later in life.
That’s because UV radiation damages the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations and the formation of cancerous cells over time. And it’s not just cancer—UV exposure also breaks down collagen and elastin, the fibers that keep your skin youthful, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and age spots.
It’s serious stuff—but here’s the thing:
You get to choose what’s right for you.
I’ll share a lot of information here—because I deeply believe that education is empowering. But ultimately, only you can decide what’s best for your body, your skin, and your family.
My job? To help you make that choice informed and confidently.
How to choose?
With so many different sun protection products available, how do you know which ones to choose? Which is the most effective? Which is safest?
What is sad, is that all sunscreen ingredients can be toxic. Mineral-based sunblocks are considered safer, but unfortunately, there are new studies suggesting that titanium dioxide can be absorbed into the bloodstream and, over time, can cause damage.
According to Rachael Pontillo, “Many cosmetic manufacturers who use titanium dioxide are starting to either use lower concentrations (“nano” or “micro-sized” particles) of it or are switching to zinc oxide. Absorbing sunscreens contain chemical ingredients that are all potentially harmful and create free radicals. Of course, some are less harmful than others.”
Let’s Talk About Sunscreen Toxicity
This topic is close to my heart. I have someone dear to me who is incredibly fair-skinned—practically translucent. They’re diligent about staying out of the sun, sometimes too much, to the point that they miss out on the benefits of natural Vitamin D. And because they burn so easily, they often rely on some of the most chemical-laden, conventional sunscreens on the market.
If you’re reading this, you know who you are—please, take this to heart and check out "The Need to Knows of Enjoying the Sun Safely."
The truth is, many chemical sunscreens contain hormone-disrupting ingredients, including xenoestrogens, which have been linked to disruptions in mood, hormone function, and immune health. It’s wild when you think about it—the very things we’re using to protect our health may be contributing to the opposite.
This is why understanding sunscreen ingredients matters so much. What you put on your skin should never compromise your well-being.
What Research Says About Chemical Sunscreen Risks
While many people trust that sunscreen protects them, emerging research suggests some chemical sunscreen ingredients might actually do more harm than good.
According to The Holistic Health Library, certain widely used chemical UV filters may actually increase the risk of cancer due to their free radical-generating properties. Some of these chemicals are also known to have estrogenic effects, potentially impacting hormone function and reproductive health.
Consider this: Queensland, Australia—where chemical sunscreen use is aggressively promoted—has one of the highest rates of melanoma per capita in the world. Research suggests a correlation between increased sunscreen use and increased skin cancer rates, especially in populations with fair skin.
Some studies suggest that high-SPF chemical sunscreens may give people a false sense of security, encouraging longer sun exposure while the supposed protective benefits fall short—especially when the sunscreen isn’t applied or reapplied correctly.
In fact, ingredients like Octyl Methoxycinnamate (OMC)—used in about 90% of chemical sunscreen products—have shown toxicity in animal studies and have been found to be particularly reactive when exposed to sunlight. According to holistic skincare educator Rachael Pontillo, OMC has been linked to cell death in mice and hormone disruption.
Another commonly used ingredient, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, a UVA filter, has also demonstrated toxic behavior and estrogenic activity, raising concerns about its potential systemic effects. Several studies confirm that chemical sunscreen ingredients can be absorbed into the bloodstream, circulating through the body long after application.
😬 Bottom line: When it comes to sun protection, it’s not just about what keeps you from burning—it’s about long-term safety and overall health. YIKES!!!
🚫 Ingredient Red Flags: What to Watch Out For
Many conventional sunscreens contain ingredients that are potentially toxic and even hormone-disrupting. These chemical sunscreen agents can pose risks to your endocrine system, immune response, and skin barrier health.
If your sunscreen or moisturizer contains any of the following, it’s time to toss it:
Oxybenzone
Octinoxate (Octyl methoxycinnamate/OMC)
Avobenzone
Octocrylene
Homosalate
Octisalate
Padimate O
Dioxybenzone
Cinoxate
PABA (Para-aminobenzoic acid)
⚠️ Don’t be fooled by “multi-tasking” products like tinted SPF moisturizers with built-in antioxidants. While they sound like time-saving skincare miracles, many contain polymers, silicones, and harsh chemical filters that do more harm than good.
And beware of greenwashing: Some brands blend a little zinc oxide with chemical filters and slap on buzzwords like "natural" or "mineral-based." Always check the full ingredient list and look beyond the label.
For more information on the Anatomy of an Ingredient Label click here.
Is “Reef-Safe” Really Safe?
Let’s clear this up: The term “reef-safe sunscreen” has become a buzzy label in the clean beauty world, but unfortunately, it’s often misused.
As Katie Kimball of Kitchen Stewardship points out, many companies simply remove the two ingredients banned in Hawaii—oxybenzone and octinoxate—and still label their products as reef-friendly. But that doesn’t mean those sunscreens are genuinely safe for marine ecosystems—or for your body.
This is a prime example of greenwashing: brands marketing a product as eco-conscious or natural, when the formulation still contains toxic chemicals or misleading additives.
Some products may combine chemical filters with zinc oxide, slap on a “mineral-based” label, and call it a day. Don’t be fooled.
✅ Always read the full ingredient list—including the inactive ingredients. Just because it says “reef-safe” doesn’t mean it’s actually safe for reefs... or for you.
Why All This Matters
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, just one blistering sunburn during childhood or adolescence can nearly double a person’s risk of developing melanoma later in life.
That’s because UV radiation damages the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations and cancer. UV rays also break down collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and age spots.
You get to choose what’s right for you.
I’ve shared a lot here because I believe education is empowering. Ultimately, you get to decide what’s best for your skin and your family.
What SHOULD My Sunscreen Contain?
SPF 15-30 with zinc oxide as the only active ingredient
Non-nano zinc oxide for reef-safe and human-safe protection
Antioxidants
Zinc Oxide: Physical sunscreen that reflects UV rays. Safe and broad-spectrum.
Non-Nano Zinc Oxide: Larger than 100nm, doesn’t penetrate the skin or bloodstream. Safer for humans and marine life.
Uncoated Zinc Oxide: Not chemically treated. May leave more white cast but has fewer additives.
👀 Look for non-nano, uncoated zinc oxide
for the safest, most natural protection 👀
A Word About Antioxidants in Sunscreen
Look for antioxidants—here’s why:
Many quality natural sunscreen brands now include antioxidants in their formulations to combat free radical damage caused not just by UV exposure, but also by the sun protection ingredients themselves.
Antioxidants serve two major purposes:
They prevent the oils in your sunscreen from going rancid, extending the product’s shelf life.
They provide added protection for your skin against premature aging and cellular damage from UV rays.
✅ Some powerful antioxidant-rich ingredients to look for:
Avocado oil, Sea buckthorn oil, Carrot seed oil, Red raspberry seed oil, Cranberry seed oil, Grapeseed extract, Green tea, Black tea, Hibiscus, Vitamin E (preferably in the form of Tocopheryl Acetate)
These ingredients not only boost your skin’s resilience to the sun but also help reduce inflammation, support collagen, and improve overall skin tone. Your sunscreen should do more than just block rays—it should nourish and protect your skin too.
How Sunscreen Can Affect Your Skin
Let’s talk breakouts, congestion, and irritation—because not all sunscreen is skin-friendly, especially for acne-prone or sensitive types.
If you’re someone who experiences flare-ups, clogged pores, or breakouts, especially around the face, chest, or back, opt for sunscreens formulated with lightweight, non-comedogenic emollients specifically designed for facial use. These are far less likely to suffocate the skin or lead to congestion.
❌ Avoid ingredients like cocoa butter or coconut oil, which are heavy and highly comedogenic (aka pore-clogging).
✅ Always choose fragrance-free sunscreen. Synthetic fragrances are one of the most common triggers for skin irritation, allergic reactions, and inflammation—especially when mixed with sun exposure.
Look for labels that say:
“Non-comedogenic”
“Oil-free”
“Fragrance-free”
“For sensitive skin”
Being sun-safe shouldn’t come at the expense of your skin’s clarity and comfort.
NON-TOXIC SUNSCREEN OPTIONS
All non-linked items below can be found here.
BEST REEF-SAFE MINERAL SUNSCREEN
Kokua Sun Care Hawaiian Tinted Non Nano Zinc Oxide Sunscreen SPF 30/80
Raw Elements Face and Body Mineral OR Mike Fields Face & Body SPORT
Raw Love Mineral Sunscreen Lotion for Face & Body
Butterbean’s Sunscreen - Great Overall, multiple products. High quality, and sustainable products that have been naturally sourced - healthy for both people and the planet. Unrefined, certified organic, and fair trade oils impart antioxidant-rich protection to the skin. Pure vitamin E from sunflowers nourish the skin with non-GMO and gluten-free goodness and use food-grade organic coconut oil for added health and moisturizing benefits. Use code ANGIE657 for 15% off any order.
BEST FOR BABIES
Raw Love Sunscreen Baby Sunscreen Stick SPF 30+
BEST FOR SPORTS
Raw Elements Mike Fields Face & Body SPORT
BEST FOR FACES
100% Pure Green Tea SPF 30 or Tomato Lycopene SPF 20 Moisturizer
Raw Elements Face and Body Mineral or Mike Fields Face & Body SPORT
TINTED
Raw Elements Ultra-Moisturizing Face Tint Sunscreen SPF 30+ (Bronze, Stick)
Kokua Sun Care Hawaiian Tinted Non Nano
AKT Elemental Sun Balm (a little bit of natural tint).
FOR THE LIPS 💋
Raw Elements Tinted Lip Beach Pout, Pink Feet OR Lip Balm Rescue OR Mike Field Lip Sunscreen OR Raw Elements Tinted Lip Sun Kissed, Ocean Mist, Magma Red SPF 30 .15 oz Sunrise Pack
Recommended After-Sun Relief
Sunscreen is only part of the picture—how you care for your skin after sun exposure matters just as much.
One of my new favorite after-sun essentials is Raw Elements After Sun Body Gel. It’s a soothing blend of natural, skin-loving ingredients that calm and hydrate the skin—perfect after a beach day, hike, or poolside lounging.
What makes it stand out? It contains Aloe Balls—a highly concentrated, all-natural flow modifier that enhances absorption so the gel penetrates deeply. Skin feels soothed, hydrated, and refreshed—not sticky or heavy.
✨ Bonus: It works in spray and foaming bottles, and comes in sustainable packaging. Relief that’s both effective and eco-friendly.
Clean Self-Tanner Alternatives for a Safe Glow
You can get that sun-kissed look without UV exposure. But let’s talk about self-tanners.
Why Avoid DHA?
Most self-tanners contain Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), even the “natural” ones. Concerns include:
Free radical formation when exposed to sunlight
Potential inhalation and skin sensitivity
Chemical reaction (Maillard reaction) with your skin’s amino acids
DHA-Free Alternatives:
Ere Perez Beetroot Cheek & Lip Tint – light flush using natural beet pigments
Prtty Peaushun – light-reflecting, plant-based body lotion
Kora Organics Gradual Tanning Lotion (some versions DHA-free)
Eco Tan Cacao Mousse (check for DHA-free variants)
Chocolate Sun Creams (some use cocoa-based color)
You can also try DIY mixes (like cacao powder + moisturizer) or shimmer body oils for bronzing.
Sunscreen alone will not protect us completely from sun damage. For sunscreen to be effective, it’s important to apply it correctly, and reapply it often AND use it together with shade, clothing, hats and sunglasses. The body’s resistance to the sun’s damage can be strengthened with a healthy diet, proper skincare regimen, and certain supplements.
For more information on that please refer to The Need to Knows of Enjoying the Sun Safely
With these practices, you can enjoy the sun safely 🖤
XOXO,
Angie
For more information, please check out the Melanoma Research Foundation’s sun safety tips on their website, and the FDA?s sunscreen info on their website. You can also go to The Environmental Working Group and search for the best sunscreen for you and your family. They have an excellent sunscreen guide.
As always, you can check out the following sites for ingredients and toxicity levels and ingredient safety.
REFRENCES
Anatomy of a Sunscreen, Mar 1st, 2016, Farah Ahmed and Curtis Cole, Ph.D., https://www.skininc.com/science/ingredients/article/21881608/anatomy-of-a-sunscreen
The Benefits of Green Tea for Breakouts and Blemishes, Rachael Pontillo, Jan 8, 2022, https://createyourskincare.com/the-benefits-of-green-tea-for-breakouts/
22 Undisputed Sun Safety Facts, Rachael Pontillo, June 17, 2015, https://createyourskincare.com/22-undisputed-sun-safety-facts/
New FDA Sunscreen Guidelines: What You Need to Know
Rachael Pontillo, Mar 23, 2012, https://createyourskincare.com/new-fda-sunscreen-guidelines-what-you-need-to-know/
Foods That Fight Sun Damage, Sally Wadyka, April 08, 2018, https://www.consumerreports.org/sun-protection/foods-that-fight-sun-damage/
How to Protect Your Skin from Chlorine and The Sun (Besides Sunscreen), Rachael Pontillo, July 11, 2020, https://createyourskincare.com/protect-your-skin-from-chlorine-and-the-sun-besides-sunscreen/
Sun Protective clothing, https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/sun-protection/sun-protective-clothing/
Photosensitizing Essential Oils, https://www.skincancer.org/risk-factors/photosensitivity/
Fighting Off Free Radicals: Protect Yourself from the Sun, Rachael Pontillo, January 25, 2011, https://createyourskincare.com/fighting-off-free-radicals-protect-yourself-from-the-sun/
The Hidden Dangers of Chemical Sunscreen Ingredients, Rachael Pontillo, Mar 22, 2011, https://createyourskincare.com/the-hidden-dangers-of-chemical-sunscreen-ingredients/
Queensland still the skin cancer capital of the world, April 1, 2016 in General Media Release, https://cancerqld.org.au/news/queensland-still-the-skin-cancer-capital-of-the-world/
Derms Weigh In, STAFF AUTHOR, NOV 28, 2021, https://www.byrdie.com/is-chemical-sunscreen-bad-5192567
Maximize Your Summer Fun Without the Health Risks From Untested Chemicals, https://products.mercolamarket.com/summer-essentials/
The Sun IS Your Sunscreen, https://alsearsmd.com/2011/03/the-sun-is-your-sunscreen/