Sunscreen is Killing the Coral.
Scientists believe some of the chemicals found in sunscreens have a negative impact on corals. Those chemicals? Oxybenzone and octinoxate. Both Hawaii and Florida’s Key West have banned sunscreens with these two ingredients (found in nearly 75% of U.S. sunscreens).
Messing With Our Hormones.
So, okay, they hurt the coral but what about hurting you and your family? Scientists also believe that these two chemicals can have a negative impact on the endocrine system of animals and humans. That means they can mess with your hormonal balance.
Not-so-“safe” Levels in our Bodies.
Research showed the levels of chemicals in sunscreen far exceeded what is known as “safe” limits on the first day of the study and that oxybenzone reached the threshold within two hours after a single application — exceeding limits on day seven of the study! Oh, and by the way this chemical is also found in breast milk samples, along with many other sunscreen ingredients.
Mosquitoes, Ticks, and Fleas Oh My.
The Centers for Disease Control evaluated data from the EPA and information published in peer-reviewed scientific literature. Products containing Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus were shown to sufficiently help people reduce mosquito bites. Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus also provided protection time similar to low concentration DEET products!
Make the Switch.
How safe is your bug repellent? Our friends at the Environmental Working Group are in the process of updating their 2019 guide, but the 2018 website still has great information.
The 2019 Guide to Sunscreens is, however, now available from EWG. You can also download the Healthy Living app and simply scan the barcode of any sunscreen OR bug repellant you want to purchase to instantly find its safety profile.
Tracking in Chemicals on Our Shoes