Is Sunscreen Safe For Kids?

From household cleaners to food, lately there has been a surge in products boasting natural and organic ingredients instead of chemicals. One of these drugstore essentials seems to be in the middle of a warzone when it comes to whether it is healthy or not, and that is: sunscreen.
The main offender in the battle against sunscreen is a compound called oxybenzone which has been speculated at disrupting endocrine functions, along with other negative effects. The Environmental Working Group firmly believes that it is harmful to children and adults, but some scientists think differently.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, most of the studies which alluded to oxybenzone being harmful were “junk science” and have not been reliable.  While they are not dismissing the potentially unsafe ingredients, they simply do not have enough evidence that supports the compound being dangerous.
If you are skeptical though, there are more and more options for sunscreen without the questioned chemicals! Alternatives to oxybenzone include zinc oxide, avobenzone and Mexoryl SX. Try to stick to SPFs  in the range from 15-50, as these will keep you safe and conscious of how much time you spend in the sun.  Cream is also the best, since spray and powdered sunscreens can be inhaled and could be harmful.
Make sure you and your children are CONSTANTLY reapplying sunscreen, especially with our hot Arizona summers right around the corner.  Slather it on your child before they head out to school or go out to play with friends! If you have an infant, please be advised that the FDA does not recommend sunscreen for those 6 months old and younger.  It is best to cover up infants, and avoid going out during the mid-day when the sun shines the brightest.
Don’t forget your teens! Although some of their friends may think it’s cool to get a tan, make sure they realize what damage the sun can do. Tanning beds can be even more dangerous than sitting in the sun, as they can expose the skin to 15x more UV rays.  Remember, there are also plenty of spray tan salons in Phoenix and even more places to buy bronzer!