Is Your Sunscreen Causing More Harm Than Good?
When it comes to the health and appearance of your skin, there is no question that sun exposure is a major threat. Thankfully, today’s Hollywood celebrities also understand this and openly support the importance of protecting your skin under harmful UV rays. Applying sunscreen is the most popular way to defend your skin against the wrinkles, dryness, pigmentation and cancer that can develop from too much time under the sun. But is all sunscreen safe? A recent article in The Hollywood Reporter reveals some potential dangers of the chemicals found in many sunscreen products. As you’re lathering your skin this summer, you could be adding chemicals to your body that could endanger your health or even pose a threat to the environment?
The Hollywood Reporter article discusses three popular chemical ingredients in sunscreen that are “deemed unsafe for personal care use and the oceans: oxybenzone, octinoxate and octocrylene.” Not only can these chemicals enter the bloodstream at toxic levels, but they can also contribute to coral reef poisoning and other environmental dangers. So how can you safely protect yourself from the sun?
Celebrities are realizing the dangers of chemically-loaded sunscreen. They are turning to wide-brimmed hats, clothing with built-in UPF protection and chemical-free SPF formulas as a safer means to avoid skin cancer and keep their complexion as youthful as possible. As far as sunscreen, many are seeking products that are labeled “reef safe, vegan, plant based or cruelty-free.” However, reputable Beverly Hills skincare experts also have some very specific recommendations for sun protection.
Jennifer Hollander, the board-certified nurse practitioner who oversees Beverly Hills anti-aging mecca Aura Spa Holistic Healing Center alongside cosmetic surgeon Dr. Ben Talei is partial to EltaMD UV Physical Broad-Spectrum SPF 41 and Tizo Sheer Botanicals SPF 45 Mineral Sunscreen. “They’re both effective, glide on beautifully and contain skin-soothing antioxidants,” she says.
At AuraSpa Healing Center in Beverly Hills, we recognize the importance of endorsing skincare products that are not only effective, but also safe for your body and the environment. We also understand that all skin types are different, and a personalized treatment approach must be used with each patient. We know that avoiding the sun is nearly impossible during the summer months. Therefore, if you would like to know which chemical-free sunscreen is best for you, please schedule a consult with one of our medical providers. We believe in helping you achieve the best version of yourself on the inside as well as the outside!
Posted on behalf of Jennifer Hollander, NP
