The Florida Sun viciously blisters through the summer months along with daily short-lived sprinkles of rain. Stepping outside feels like entering a steaming oven, as temperatures range from low 80s to mid-90s. Summer in the Sunshine State is no joke, and while we enjoy each moment in the sun (strolling through the Guana, lazing by the pool, fishing at the pier, golfing all day, jogging on the beach), it’s important to remember one thing: sunscreen.
Wearing sunscreen can greatly protect people’s skin from the sun’s radiative waves. While those rays might give you the perfect tan, they can also lead to premature wrinkles, sunburn, sunspots and skin cancer. However, spraying on just anything labeled “sunscreen” will not do the trick. With hundreds of brands of sunscreen on the market, it can be difficult to sort through the good quality ones and the chemical-ridden ones.
There are two types of sunscreens: mineral sunscreen and chemical sunscreen.
Mineral sunscreen contains ingredients that create a barrier on the skin to reflect ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The ingredients are typically zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
Chemical sunscreen contains ingredients that absorb UV radiation into the skin and bloodstream and then convert the UV into heat. These ingredients are usually oxybenzone, octinoxate and homosalate, among others.
Both are FDA approved and sold anywhere sunscreen is retailed.
The sunscreen option that is safer and gentler on skin is mineral sunscreen. Because mineral sunscreen reflects UV rays away from our bodies, less radiation is absorbed, offering better protection. Chemical sunscreen also works, but the chemical ingredients in them have been linked to major health concerns.
For example, oxybenzone can interfere with hormones in a person’s body. Oxybenzone is also known to harm marine life and coral reefs. That is why chemical sunscreens are banned on some cruise lines and locations such as the Virgin Islands, Aruba and Hawaii. When visitors smothered in chemical sunscreens dive into the crystal waters, the harmful chemicals wash off into the water and damage ocean life.
Octinoxate, another chemical sunscreen ingredient, is also harmful to marine environments. This chemical often causes skin irritation and once absorbed, leave traces in urine, blood and breast milk. The chemical is also linked to fertility issues.
When selecting sunscreen, look out for mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. This option is the better bet and is much less harmful to humans and wildlife. Wearing sunscreen is not the only choice when it comes to sun protection. Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) clothing can be worn along with hats and light and breathable long-sleeved clothing. Sunglasses should also be worn to protect the eyes from radiation and strain.
Spending time in the sun is great as long as proper precautions are taken to protect your skin and wellbeing.
