The Best Sunscreen to use for Children and Adults

Sunscreen has become an important part of our daily summer routines.  We slather it on our faces and bodies at least once daily, and cover our children from head to toe.  It is important to know that not all sunscreens are created equal.

Sometimes when looking at a tube, can or bottle of sunscreen, many feel they need to be a chemist to understand the ingredients.  For more information on what these ingredients are, I suggest looking at the Environmental Working Group’s website for a more concise and easy to understand explanation.

The summary of this site is to use sunscreens that contain only Zinc oxide, avobenzone, Mexoryl sx (ecamsule), octisisalate and/or titanium dioxide.  Preferably these sunscreens are free of parabens, phthalates, and nano-technology.

Oxybenzone appears to be the ingredient with the most potential negative effects such as disrupting the endocrine system and having an association with allergic reactions.  This is because oxybenzone is more likely to penetrate through the skin and enter the bloodstream.  Theoretically, this is magnified in children due to their reduced body mass.  NEVER use a spray or powder sunscreen as any ingredients inhaled into the lungs have a negative effect.  This is especially true of children.

Now, most of the sunscreens I have used that follow the above criteria tend to be pasty, sticky and white.  There are some brands out there however that do not.  My personal favorite is DeVita Solar Body Block SPF 30+ for both children and adults.  It needs to be applied more frequently but it goes on easily and clear.  It is also a good daily moisturizer for the face.  There are many other DeVita skin care products, make-up and sunscreens also available at our office.

We are running specials on all DeVita skin products until August 31st.  Please call the office for more details or if we can answer any questions for you.

Azure Karli

Bend Naturopathic Clinic

541-389-9750