Summer is almost here, which means there will be more outdoor times for swimming, playing and backyard BBQs. For parents, sunscreen shopping is a must as skincare protection is crucial during this scorching season, especially with children. Blistering can be painful and sun damage could lead to other skin issues later on.
But before you stock up on sunscreen supply, you might find the latest Environmental Working Group (EWG) Guide To Sunscreens helpful. There have been some changes and improvements in sunscreen products over the years and the guide is quite detailed. For a quick review, below are the three things you need to avoid in buying sunscreen based on the guidelines set:
1) High SPF Sunscreens
There is no need to purchase sunscreen with an SPF value of 50 and above. According to the EWG in another report, this doesn't necessarily mean that if a sunscreen has high SPF, it offers the best skin protection. Mother Nature Network cites that high SPF sunscreen also offers a "false sense of security" to users.
Any sunscreen with SPF value lower than 50 works just as effectively. However, the most important thing to note, more than high SPF value, is that sunscreen needs to be reapplied, especially if a child's skin is more prone to redness and burning.
EWG's 2016 Guide to Safer Sunscreens https://t.co/zJc2BG7Lk8 #SunSafety
— EWG (@ewg) May 24, 2016
2) Sunscreen Ingredients Oxybenzone & Retinyl Palmitate
Always check the sunscreen product for these ingredients: oxybenzone & retinyl palmitate. These chemicals are known to cause harm. Oxybenzone is unfortunately present in about 70 percent of sunscreen products that the EWG has evaluated for 2016 and it can cause hormone disruption that affects development.
On the other hand, retinyl palmitate is vitamin A, but it can aggravate skin tumors or lesions with too much use. It is known also known as retinol, retinyl acetate, retinyl palmitate or retinyl linoleate. For safer sunscreen ingredients, choose products with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, per Well and Good.
Make sure u r practicing these sun safety tips every time u enjoy the outdoors. https://t.co/6exQroZv7D @ewg pic.twitter.com/w4BMUHVlnp
— California Baby (@_CaliforniaBaby) May 23, 2016
3) Skip The Spray Sunscreens
This product is much easier to apply, but the EWG said it doesn't provide the coverage that's needed for sun protection. Spray sunscreens might also be dangerous when inhaled because of its chemicals. Don't waste your money on this product.
To prepare for summer, ensure that your kids know the importance of wearing sunscreen. Let them watch this video below:
