Summer is almost here and that means fun in the sun!

Whatever your summer activities are, they probably involve being in the sun for extended periods of time. This means it’s time to break out the sunscreen. We’ve been warned about the harmful effects of the sun and encouraged by the media, cosmetic companies and doctors to always wear sunscreen, even if we’re inside most of the day. So, many of us actually wear sunscreen or sunblock year-round, not just in the summer.

The truth is, there is one question that many are not asking, and we really should be: Is it really necessary or even safe to use sunscreen products everyday?

Unfortunately, in our efforts to stop sun damage to our skin and prevent aging and wrinkling, we may have done ourselves harm. There is mounting evidence that chemicals found in most sunscreen products could be the actual culprits in creating skin damage, free radical production, and hormone disruption. (Not a good thing at all!)

I know, I know…it seems like EVERYTHING is bad for us. Don’t despair though -- you’ve heard the bad news, but there’s good news too, so keep reading!

Sunscreen is designed to protect us from the strong ultraviolet rays of the sun. There are UVA and UVB rays. UVA are the longer sunrays that penetrate deeper into the skin and cause skin damage, including premature aging and cancer. UVB rays are shorter, and are responsible for sunburns.

There are two main types of sunscreens:

The first one contains chemical ingredients that absorb ultraviolet light. These are the ones with harmful chemicals you want to avoid. Some chemicals you might find in typical sunscreen products:

· Benzophenone, also oxybenzone (the PAN Pesticides Database lists it as a toxic pesticide. Also a common allergen and studies revealed that it showed up in the urine of study participants who used it)
· Avobenzone, octylmethoxycinnamate, and octocrylene (these chemicals penetrate the skin and generate free radicals)
· Methoxycinnamate (implicated in causing cancer)
· PABA (thankfully this isn’t used as much now: it can cause skin reactions and may have a part in creating cell damage)

The second type of sunscreen utilizes minerals that reflect and scatter ultraviolet light. They act as physical barriers, sitting on the surface of the skin instead of penetrating it like the chemical products. Two of these minerals are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. They are much safer ingredients to use, and the best sunscreen products combine one of these with herbal ingredients and anti-oxidants.

These are not the thick white creams you used to see years ago on lifeguards’ and swimmers’ noses. The newest ones are micronized so they are translucent on your skin, not white. A big plus!

In addition to choosing safe sunscreen products, remember not to overdo sun exposure: use sunglasses, wear wide-brimmed hats and long-sleeved shirts and pants. Also, try, to stay in the shade during the hottest part of the day.

Back to sunscreen...specifically, what is a good sunscreen? It really is important that you find one with safe ingredients, especially when you’re looking for a product for your children. Although you may keep them covered up much of the time, sometimes you need the extra protection of a good sunscreen.

My recommendation for a safe and effective sunscreen is safe4u™ SPF15 Sunscreen formulated by Linda Chaé of Chaé Organics. It’s made with titanium dioxide along with vitamins, exotic botanicals such as sea buckthorn berry oil and calendula (all organic) and other ingredients that nourish and pamper the skin. So you are not only protecting your skin, but treating it too!

It’s hard for me not to rave about the Chaé Organics products. I love Linda’s skin care products and have been using them for over 10 years now! She is the one who first introduced me to skin care without the toxic chemicals – thanks Linda!

So, soak up some rays and enjoy your summer in the sun – but make sure you choose a safe sunscreen for you and your family.