THE DANGERS OF DIY SUNSCREEN

Why You Should Never Attempt DIY (Do-It-Yourself) Sunscreen

​With many popular social media sites allowing us to connect more than ever before, people from all over the world are swapping tips, ideas, and advice on everything from fashion design and food, to the best travel destinations. With so many people sharing, it's easy to think that you may have stumbled upon some of the best-kept secrets that you must try! While you definitely should consider preparing that delicious blueberry cobbler recipe, it would be very wise of you to avoid attempting any of the DIY sunscreen recipes that are trending as safe and natural alternatives. 

​Sunscreen Recipe Ideas Are Popular

A study published in the journal Health Communication examined how people share information about homemade sunscreen on the popular inspiration-board website Pinterest, and concluded that almost 95% of pins about homemade sunscreen portray it in a positive light. What was alarming was the average shares/saves on posts for homemade sunscreen was about 800, with one pin being saved more than 21,000 times. Many people want safe and effective products for themselves and their families, but relying on a DIY product for sun protection would be a dangerous proposition. Even though a topic trends and appears to be popular doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s good for you.  

​Sunscreen Science Is Complex

​As fun as it is to whip up a homemade face mask or devise a soap recipe out of oatmeal and essential oils, formulating sunscreen is entirely different. That’s because protecting your skin from both UVA and UVB rays is a precise science that requires specialized testing. Properly regulated commercial sunscreen is rigorously tested for efficacy and effectiveness within a clinical lab setting. 

​Chemical Sunscreen Concerns 

​Earlier this year, the Food and Drug Administration issued a report that the safety of 12 common chemical sunscreen ingredients, such as avobenzone, octinoxate, and oxybenzone were still posing a health threat and a call for more research was needed. Then a new study showed that some of these ingredients are absorbed through the skin at higher levels than previously thought and are harmful to the ocean’s coral reefs as well as the human endocrine system. While there are genuine concerns about the chemical sunscreen options on the market, there is just as much danger in trying to create a more natural option for yourself at home. 

Proven Sunscreen Safety

​For years, zinc oxide has been used as a physical barrier in mineral-based sunscreens. It has been proven safe and offers excellent protection against both UVA & UVB rays. It’s a photostable, broad-spectrum ingredient that is ideal for safe sunscreen formulas. It has the broadest UVA coverage of all the sunscreen ingredients currently available in the U.S, as well as UVB coverage.  Zinc Oxide can be safely applied in repeated doses without the risk of local skin toxicity, according to the findings of a recent study. It is great for all skin types -- even on those with extremely sensitive skin. It is also non-comedogenic, so it will not cause breakouts or acne. Zinc Oxide is great for anyone older than six months old and best of all since it’s a physical barrier on the surface of the skin, it starts working as soon as you apply it. So, if you’re looking for the best mineral-based broad-spectrum sunscreen an organic, zinc oxide is an excellent choice. SUNZ SPF 30 natural tinted organic zinc sunscreen is safe for all skin types and biodegradable, so it's great for everyone and the environment. Enjoy the sun safely!