Illustration: Sarah Grillo/Axios
Here’s what you should ask before buying sunscreen, Carly writes:
What are the active ingredients?
You might consider avoiding oxybenzone. It’s the chemical sunscreen ingredient that Lim says is most-discussed as potentially harmful, although there isn’t conclusive data.
Oxybenzone is a possible allergen and can get absorbed into the body. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration warns that it can harm marine life.
Is mineral sunscreen an option?
If you’re pregnant, applying sunscreen to a baby, or especially concerned about sunscreen absorption for any other reason, “then the safest option would be to use mineral sunscreen,” Lim says.
The active ingredients in mineral sunscreen — zinc oxide and titanium dioxide — don’t penetrate the skin.
Mineral sunscreens can leave behind a white cast, particularly on darker skin tones. There are some tinted options, but those come in limited colors and can stain clothing.
What if I’m buying a spray?
If inhaled, ingredients could be toxic, potentially carcinogenic or irritate the lungs.
Aim the spray in a direction that it can’t be inhaled. Or, Lim recommends spraying the sunscreen on your hands instead and then applying it elsewhere.
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