Are Chemical Sunscreens Safe During Pregnancy?
There are no studies that directly link issues with using chemical sunscreens during pregnancy. Though, with something as precious as a child, it's important to err on the side of caution.
Chemical sunscreens are made with ingredients that can be potentially toxic, yet beach vacays require plenty of sunscreen! These sunning seshes can exceed daily recommended limits on sunscreen chemicals.
It's better to be safe than sorry. Soak up more sun and less toxic chemicals by applying natural sunscreen.
Sunscreen Ingredients to Avoid When Pregnant
While sunscreen chemicals can't directly impact your baby, they might confuse your hormones. Consequently, your body might not provide your baby with the essential resources.
Enjoy a healthy pregnancy by limiting your exposure to these sunscreen ingredients:
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Oxybenzone - used in 70% of sunscreens, potentially linked to rare infant disease [2].
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MEA/DEA/TEA - may alter sperm in father, DEA (banned in Europe), may impede child's memory [3].
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Benzophenone - common sunscreen fragrance that may promote an early delivery [4].
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Para-Aminobenzoic Acid (PABA) - may disrupt estrogen hormones [5].
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Octyl methoxycinnamate/Octinoxate - may decrease hormone GnRH, which is responsible for sperm production [6].
Put your beach chair back out because you're not packing up for the day just yet. Get your sun-on and protect your body by using all-natural mineral sunscreens.
"Oxybenzone is used in 70% of sunscreens"
List of Safe Sunscreens During Pregnancy
Live your best life in the sun without worrying about toxic chemicals. Check out these pregnancy-safe sunscreens.
1. Butter Me Up Organics Natural Non-Nano Zinc Oxide Sunscreen
Optimize your skincare regimen with Butter Me Up Organics. Trade-in oxybenzone and trade up to nano-zinc oxide.
Create a tropical oasis everywhere you go. Nourish your skin with this blend's exotic aromas of organic coconut oil, shea butter, and mango butter!
2. Raw Elements' Face Stick
Shield the most exposed part of your body from turning into a lobster. Keep your face glowing rather than reddening with Raw Elements' Face Stick.
Moisturize and protect in one with a luxurious blend of organic sunflower oil, hemp seed oil, cocoa butter, and mango butter. Rejuvenate burned skin with a soothing mixture of organic black tea, green tea, rosemary extract, and vitamin E. It's pre-and-after suncare in one BPA-free bottle!
3. MANDA Organic Sun Creme
Increase your protection with MANDA Organic Sun Creme. Lavishly apply this silky-smooth formula while you relax in the sun.
Hydrate your skin while you soak up the sun with a unique blend of organic coconut oil, almond butter, cocoa butter, and beeswax. Regenerate your natural glow with Thanaka powder, organic cinnamon oil, and cocoa powder. You’ll look sun-kissed and have the natural glow of a healthy pregnancy!
Sources:
[1] https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/pregnancy-health-wellness/vitamin-d-and-pregnancy-4915/
[2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30831214/
[3] https://www.safecosmetics.org/get-the-facts/chemicals-of-concern/ethanolamine-compounds/
[4] https://www.researchgate.net/publication/319296314_Exposure_to_Benzophenone-3_and_Reproductive_Toxicity_A_Systematic_Review_of_Human_and_Animal_Studies
[5] https://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/doi/abs/10.1289/ehp.01109239
[6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5615097/