Sunscreen - Not Just For Beach Days, It's Essential
UV exposure is the number one cause of premature aging—think wrinkles, dark spots, and loss of skin elasticity. But beyond that, unprotected sun exposure increases the risk of skin cancer. So if you’re serious about your skin (and your health), SPF needs to be part of your daily routine.
Now, don't get me wrong, a little sun exposure is healthy, too— in fact, it’s how we make vitamin D.
15–20 minutes of unfiltered sun, 2–3x per week, is the ideal recommended amount of sun exposure.
After that, or for longer outdoor exposure, protect the skin with shade, hats, and sunscreen to avoid burns.
Now if you’re anything like me, finding the perfect sunscreen has been a journey! But after learning that many sunscreens contain harmful chemicals that affect our health and the planet, switching to a non-toxic sunscreen was a must.
Ready to make the switch to a safer SPF? Here’s everything I wish I knew before I ditched conventional sunscreens.
Chemical vs. Mineral Sunscreen
❌ Chemical Sunscreens
These absorb UV rays using chemical actives such as the the following ingredients:
- Oxybenzone
- Octinoxate
- Avobenzone
- Octocrylene
- Homosalate
Concerns with these ingredients have been linked to:
- Hormone disruption
- Allergies & skin irritation
- DNA damage, reproductive toxicity, and even cancer
- Coral bleaching & marine life toxicity
📚 PMID: 29981751, 31021040
✅Mineral Sunscreens
Use mineral based ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to physically block and reflect UV rays.
These ingredients are much safer for:
- Your skin (especially sensitive skin)
- Your health (no hormone disruptors)
- The environment (reef-safe)
For both health and environmental impact, mineral sunscreen is the clear winner.
How Much Sunscreen Should You Use?
To get the full SPF protection on the label, you need to use the correct amount:
- Face and neck: about ½ teaspoon
- Full body (adult): about 1 ounce (a shot glass amount)
Because of this, I don’t recommend powders, sprays, or sticks as your main sunscreen:
- Powders don’t provide even coverage
- Sprays often miss spots and can be inhaled
- Sticks are hard to apply in the correct amount
Use lotions or creams to ensure you're getting consistent and effective protection.
My Favorite Non-Toxic Sunscreens
These mineral sunscreens are safe, effective, and easy to use:
Everyday + Family Favorites
- Pipette Mineral SPF 50 – Lightweight, non-greasy, great for babies & sensitive skin
- Earth Mama Sunscreen Lotion – Clean, gentle, and broad-spectrum
- Two Peas Organics Mineral SPF 30 – Smooth, organic, great for kids & adults
- Attitude Sunly SPF 30 – EWG-rated, reef-safe, and gentle on skin
- Badger Balm SPF 30 (Body) – Long-lasting, USDA organic
Facial Picks
- Cocokind Daily SPF – Lightweight, zero white cast, layers well under makeup
- Suntegrity Mineral Sunscreen – Doubles as a moisturizer with added antioxidants
- RMS SuperNatural Radiance Serum SPF 30 – SPF protection + tinted luminous tint
- Badger Balm Face SPF 30 – Non-comedogenic, made for facial skin
A little sun is good for you—but smart protection is essential for healthy skin.
- Keep your SPF where you get ready in the morning
- Use tinted formulas to replace foundation
- Reapply every 2 hours, or after water/sweat
- Combine with hats, rash guards, and shade for full protection
✨ Have a favorite clean SPF? Share it with me—I’m always looking for more to try!