2007 Archives: Alba Botanicals Eco-Friendly Mineral Sunscreen
It’s never too late for sunscreen. After all, there’s nothing glamorous about sun-damaged skin, and we slap on the stuff even when it’s raining. But it is too late for chemicals in sunscreen. According to the NewScientist News Service, a 2006 study found that chemicals used in sunscreen can disrupt the production of thyroid hormones that affect growth and metabolism, raising concerns that the same damage could occur in people. And a similar study in 2001 found that a commonly used sunscreen ingredient, 4-MBC, mimics the reproductive hormone estrogen and accelerates uterine development.
But since sunscreen also blocks the UV rays responsible for skin cancer, its use was a health risk catch-22 until now, when organic-minded beauty product companies jumped into the sunscreen fray, manufacturing natural mineral sunscreens that are just as effective but present none of the health risks. Here’s how they work: Where conventional sunscreens absorb directly into the skin, mineral alternatives sit on top of the skin, providing a reflective barrier against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. And while they used to be thick, white and chalky no matter how long you rubbed, today’s mineral sunscreens absorb right into the skin without grease or residue.
We especially love Alba Botanicals Hawaiian line of Mineral Sunscreens, which include 70 percent organic ingredients. The Green Tea SPF 30+ features organic green tea and aloe vera, while the Aloe Vera SPF 15 includes organic sunflower seed oil to moisturize the skin. From Kids SPF 18 to Fragrance Free SPF 18, all Alba Botanicals Mineral Sunscreens are broad spectrum and naturally water resistant—a bonus when it’s pouring outside.
