Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Sunscreen guide from EWG

The Enviromental Working Group's has reported on suncreen for 2010.  The top rated ones all contain the minerals zinc and titanium but these are not considered to be hormone disruptors.  None of the top rated ones contain oxybenzone or vitamin A and none are sprays or powders.
None of the none mineral varieties earned a top rating.
A few of their selections are:
UV Naturals
Soleo Organics
Purple Prarie Botanicals
California Baby
Badger
Check EWG.org for a full list and to check how your favorite brand fares.

Some of their facts about sunscreens are:
1.  there is not evidence that sunscreens help prevent skin cancer.  There is some evidence that they might actually increase the risk of melanoma - the most deadliest form of skin cancer.  A form of vitamin A in sunscreen may speed the development of skin cancer.
2.  There is no proof that a higher SPF does any better.
3.  The body needs vitamin D and the natural way to get it is with direct sunlight.  The American Medical Association recommends direct sun without sunscreen for 10 minutes several times a week.  The dermatologists do not agree - they say there is not evidence for that.

I think moderation in the sun is best and definitely limiting the times between 10am and 3pm.

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