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Fun in the sun - lather it on
Natural sunscreens
One of the most frequently asked questions we receive here at babyvibe is about safe, natural sunscreens. It’s recommended that babies under six months old do not wear sunscreen and we should all limit sun exposure, particularly during the sun’s peak times. Before heading out, we should generously apply sunscreen. The vibe on sunscreen is to use one that is effective and safe, blocks both UVA (causes skin aging and cancer) and UVB (causes sunburns) rays (broadspectrum protection), is free from harsh ingredients, and provides a SPF of 30 or higher. It’s wise to buy new sunscreen every year, avoid using sunscreen that contains bug repellent, and avoid powders and sprays.
The dish on sunscreens
The Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) Skin Deep Cosmetic Database offers extensive research and ratings on sunscreens on the market. Most likely, you’ll be able to find out the rating on your current sunscreen. Many of the common sunscreens that we’ve used over the years like those by Banana Boat, Coppertone and Hawaiian Tropic rate very poorly due to their use of synthetic fragrances and chemicals, and other unhealthy ingredients. In addition to using the EWG’s database as a guide, we think the key to finding a safe sunscreen that works for you is to learn how to read the labels, and determine what are good and bad ingredients.
Avoid these ingredients
Ideally, you want a sunscreen that is free of parabens (ethyl-, methyl-, butyl- and propl-), phthalates, synthetic dyes and fragrances, propylene glycol, Avobenzone (also called Parsol 1789), oxybenzone, and more. There’s a great sunscreen-buying guide available by National Geographic, listing chemicals to avoid. More information on harmful ingredients that can be bad for your skin can be found online.
What’s up with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide
According to the National Geographic Green Guide, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are minerals that physically block both the UVB and UVA rays by reflecting the rays before they can do any damage. Sunscreens using these physical blockers are considered the best protection as chemical sunscreens don't always protect against UVA rays. Most mineral or natural sunscreens use micronized zinc or titanium ingredients.
Top sunscreen picks
For the last few years, we’ve found it difficult to find some of the recommended brands of safe sunscreens. So what we’ve done is tracked down some of our favourites and the top-rated safe sunscreens according to the EWG database and where to find them.
Soleo
We’re keen on a sunscreen that’s new to Canada this summer season and rates number one on the current EWG Skin Deep safe sunscreen list. Made in Australia, Soleo Organics sunscreen is free of chemical UV absorbers, titanium dioxide, parabens, chemical preservatives, and artificial fragrances. Containing only naturally sourced ingredients like grapeseed oil, green tea extract, and more, Soleo provides a SPF of 30 plus broadspectrum, is biodegradable, water resistant, and has a low-skin irritant factor. Good to know, since Soleo contains no additives it will separate so you may need to mix it in your palm before applying.
We like it because it’s safe to use for both children and adults so you only need to buy one bottle for the family. Using a natural sunscreen that provides ultimate sunscreen protection is not only good for you and your family, but good for our environment as well. Natural sunscreens are safer for our marine animals as common chemicals in regular sunscreens can wash off swimmers, and destroy the coral reefs. Available online at Vancouver-based Lavish & Lime. SPECIAL OFFER: Babyvibe readers save $1 off a 2.8 ounce bottle of Soleo. Use coupon code SOLEOVIBE. Offer valid until June 30, 2009.
Other top picks
Rating high on the EWG list are sunscreens by Badger and Trukid, which we mentioned last summer, and California Baby, which is finally available in Canada. We recently spotted the Badger sunscreen at the Drive Organics, 1045 Commercial Dr., in Vancouver, and at the online stores Parenting by Nature, Belly Laughs, and Well. TruKid sunscreen is available online at Nayla Natural Care, where you will also find the Badger SPF 15 lip balm and soothing after sun care, and at Parenting by Nature. The Trukid facestick rated better than the Trukid sunscreen in a bottle. California Baby sunscreen is now available in Canada at O’baby Organics. Please keep in mind that many of these popular brands will be available by next week, and you can either pre-order or put your name on a waiting list.
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babyvibe is your trusted voice for new and expecting parents in Canada, delivering pint-sized news, product reviews, tips and family friend event listings.
Babyvibe is a free twice-weekly e-newsletter delivering pint-sized news and reviews on innovative products and services, expert tips and family friendly events for new and expecting parents in Canada.
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