🌿 Is Your Sunscreen Safe? Hidden Risks + Healthier Options
Every summer, it seems impossible to avoid ads, commercials, and social media posts telling you to buy the latest sunscreen “to protect you from the sun.” But here’s the uncomfortable truth: many of the mainstream sunscreens being promoted are filled with toxic ingredients that may actually do more harm than good.
The marketing message is clear: “Lather it on, or else you’ll get skin cancer.”
But new studies raise a big question: Could certain sunscreens themselves be contributing to cancer risk?
☀️ The Vitamin D Connection
Vitamin D is essential for your body. It strengthens your immune system, supports bone health, and even plays a role in cancer prevention. The best source of vitamin D is natural sunlight — specifically UVB rays.
Here’s the problem: most chemical sunscreens block UVB rays, which means they also block your body’s ability to produce vitamin D. At the same time, many contain toxic chemicals that seep into the skin and bloodstream, creating a double burden on your health.
👉 Low vitamin D levels have been linked to a higher risk of several cancers.
🚫 Toxic Ingredients Found in Many Sunscreens
Studies have revealed a number of common sunscreen ingredients that may not be safe for humans — or the planet:
Benzene – A known carcinogen, recently found in nearly 80 sunscreen products tested.
Oxybenzone – Absorbs into the bloodstream, disrupts hormones, and harms coral reefs.
Octinoxate – Detected in breast milk; disrupts hormone balance and damages marine life.
Titanium dioxide – Classified as a potential occupational carcinogen when inhaled.
Homosalate – Linked to hormone disruption and toxic to coral reefs.
OMC (Octyl methoxycinnamate) – Shown to damage cells when exposed to sunlight.
Diisopropyl adipate – Associated with tumor growth in animal studies.
Unfortunately, these chemicals are found in some of the most popular sunscreen brands sold today, including Neutrogena, Sun Bum, Banana Boat, and CVS Health.
🌿 Safer Sun Protection
The good news? You can enjoy the sun safely without exposing your body to toxic chemicals. Here are some ways to protect yourself naturally:
🌞 Get Safe Sun Exposure
Spend 15–30 minutes per day in direct sunlight (without sunscreen) to naturally boost your vitamin D. Build up gradually to avoid burning.
👒 Use Physical Barriers
Hats, sunglasses, and lightweight clothing help protect skin when you’re outdoors for longer periods.
🧴 Choose Mineral-Based Sunscreen
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) recommends zinc oxide as the safest sunscreen ingredient. It provides broad-spectrum protection (UVA + UVB), doesn’t seep into the bloodstream, and is reef-safe.🌱 Earthie Mama’s Sunscreen
That’s why I created Earthie Mama Sunscreen SPF 35. It contains only 6 safe, natural ingredients:
Non-Nano Zinc Oxide
Spring Water
Certified Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Certified Organic Beeswax
Non-GMO Vitamin E (from sunflower seeds)
Added Vitamin D3
It’s safe for the whole family, safe for marine life, and effective in protecting against sunburn — without blocking your body’s ability to thrive.
👉 [Click here to learn more about Earthie Mama’s Sunscreen.]
🍓 Eat for Sun Protection
Diet plays a role, too! Eating antioxidant-rich foods can help your skin resist UV damage naturally. Some of the best are:
Berries
Dark leafy greens
Green tea
Artichokes
Dark chocolate
Another powerful option? Astaxanthin — a super-antioxidant found in salmon and shrimp, available as a supplement, that acts like an internal sunscreen.
👉 [Click here to read more about Astaxanthin’s benefits.]
🌸 The Bottom Line
So, does sunscreen cause skin cancer?
The truth is, not all sunscreens are created equal. Many mainstream brands contain harmful chemicals that can disrupt hormones, damage cells, and block essential vitamin D production. On the other hand, mineral-based sunscreens made with zinc oxide provide safe, effective protection — without harming your health or the environment.
As you head into the sunny season, take a moment to check your labels, protect your skin wisely, and choose what supports both your health and the planet.
Be well, and have fun in the sun! 🌞
💚 Alex
