Sunscreen is an essential part of your skincare routine, especially if you live in a sunny climate or spend a lot of time outdoors. However, not all sunscreen products are created equal. Some contain oxybenzone, a chemical that has been linked to potential health and environmental risks. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at sunscreen brands that contain oxybenzone and what you need to know before using them.
Understanding Sunscreen Ingredients:
Before we dive into the specific sunscreen brands that contain oxybenzone, it’s important to understand what this ingredient is and why it’s controversial. Oxybenzone is a chemical that is commonly used in sunscreen products to absorb UV rays. However, studies have shown that oxybenzone can be absorbed into the skin and may have hormonal effects on the body. Additionally, oxybenzone has been linked to coral bleaching and other environmental concerns.
Popular Sunscreen Brands and Options:
Despite the potential risks associated with oxybenzone, many popular sunscreen brands still use this ingredient in their products. Some of the most popular sunscreen brands that contain oxybenzone include Banana Boat, Coppertone, and Neutrogena. However, there are also many oxybenzone-free options available on the market, such as mineral sunscreens that use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as their active ingredients.
Key Takeaways:
- Oxybenzone is a controversial ingredient commonly found in sunscreen products that has been linked to potential health and environmental risks.
- Popular sunscreen brands such as Banana Boat, Coppertone, and Neutrogena still use oxybenzone in their products, but there are also many oxybenzone-free options available on the market.
- Mineral sunscreens that use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as their active ingredients are a good alternative for those looking to avoid oxybenzone.
Understanding Sunscreen Ingredients
When it comes to choosing a sunscreen, understanding the ingredients is crucial to ensure that you are protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. Sunscreens are broadly classified into two types- chemical and mineral sunscreens.
Chemical vs Mineral Sunscreens
Chemical sunscreens contain active ingredients such as oxybenzone, which absorbs UV rays and converts them into heat. On the other hand, mineral sunscreens contain active ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays away from the skin.
While chemical sunscreens are more popular due to their lightweight and non-greasy texture, they can be harmful to the skin and the environment. Chemical sunscreens are absorbed into the bloodstream and can cause hormonal effects. Moreover, they can damage coral reefs and marine life.
Mineral sunscreens, on the other hand, are gentle on the skin and the environment. They are non-toxic and do not cause any hormonal effects. Mineral sunscreens are also broad-spectrum, meaning they protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
Oxybenzone and Its Impact
Oxybenzone is a common active ingredient found in chemical sunscreens. While it is effective in absorbing UV rays, it can cause harm to the skin and the environment. Oxybenzone can penetrate the skin and cause hormonal effects, which can lead to health issues such as skin cancer and premature aging.
Moreover, oxybenzone can damage coral reefs and marine life. According to the FDA, oxybenzone is one of the chemicals that pose a threat to the environment, and its use should be avoided.
When choosing a sunscreen, it is important to look for a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen that contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the active ingredient. These ingredients are gentle on the skin and the environment, providing protection against UVA and UVB rays without any harmful effects.
Protect your skin and the environment by choosing a mineral sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection. With the right sunscreen, you can enjoy the sun without worrying about the harmful effects of UV rays.
Popular Sunscreen Brands and Options
When it comes to sunscreen, you want to make sure you’re getting the best protection possible. If you’re specifically looking for a sunscreen that contains oxybenzone, there are a few options to choose from.
Brands with Oxybenzone
Some popular sunscreen brands that contain oxybenzone include Neutrogena, Banana Boat, Blue Lizard, and La Roche-Posay. These brands offer a range of options, including lotions, sprays, and fragranced and fragrance-free options.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, Banana Boat and Neutrogena offer some affordable choices. However, if you’re willing to spend a bit more, La Roche-Posay and Blue Lizard offer some higher-end options.
Oxybenzone-Free Alternatives
If you’re concerned about the potential negative effects of oxybenzone on the environment or your skin, there are plenty of oxybenzone-free options available. Some popular options include Aveeno, EltaMD, CeraVe, Supergoop!, Coola, and Thinksport.
Many of these oxybenzone-free options are also reef-safe, making them a great choice if you’re planning on spending time in the ocean. They also offer options for sensitive skin, including physical sunscreen and chemical sunscreens.
When choosing a sunscreen, it’s important to look for a broad spectrum option that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Additionally, it’s important to apply sunscreen correctly and reapply often to ensure maximum protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which top-rated sunscreens include oxybenzone in their ingredients?
If you’re looking for a top-rated sunscreen that includes oxybenzone in its ingredients, there are several options to choose from. Some of the most popular brands that use oxybenzone in their formulas include Neutrogena, Hawaiian Tropic, and Banana Boat. These brands have a range of sunscreens with varying levels of SPF protection and other features to suit your needs.
Can you list some oxybenzone-containing sunscreens that are also reef-friendly?
If you’re concerned about the impact of oxybenzone on coral reefs, you’ll be pleased to know that there are several reef-friendly sunscreens that still contain this ingredient. Look for sunscreens that use “non-nanotized” zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as their primary active ingredients, as these are known to be safer for marine life. Some oxybenzone-containing sunscreens that are also reef-friendly include Blue Lizard, Stream2Sea, and Raw Elements.
What are the most popular brands that use oxybenzone in their sunscreen formulas?
As mentioned earlier, some of the most popular brands that use oxybenzone in their sunscreen formulas include Neutrogena, Hawaiian Tropic, and Banana Boat. These brands have a wide range of sunscreens with varying levels of SPF protection, water resistance, and other features to suit your needs.
Are there any high-protection sunscreens that feature oxybenzone for sensitive skin?
Yes, there are high-protection sunscreens that feature oxybenzone for sensitive skin. La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL SPF 50+ is a popular option that is suitable for sensitive skin. This sunscreen is also water-resistant and provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
Which children’s sunscreens contain oxybenzone, and are they considered safe?
Some children’s sunscreens contain oxybenzone, but it’s important to choose a product that is safe for your child’s delicate skin. Look for sunscreens that are specifically formulated for children, as these are less likely to contain harsh chemicals that could irritate their skin. Some oxybenzone-containing sunscreens that are safe for children include Babyganics Mineral-Based Baby Sunscreen Lotion and Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+.
How do I identify sunscreens with oxybenzone on the label amidst numerous brands?
To identify sunscreens with oxybenzone on the label, look for the active ingredient list on the packaging. Oxybenzone is usually listed as “benzophenone-3” or “BP-3”. You can also check the ingredients list for other common sunscreen ingredients, such as avobenzone and octocrylene. If you’re unsure about a particular product, you can always check with a dermatologist or other healthcare professional.