Sunshine or Sunscreen? The Truth About UV, Vitamin D, & Non-toxic SPF

Sunshine is nature’s happy pill! Fun in the sun boosts our mood, strengthens our bones, and helps our bodies produce cancer-fighting vitamin D. But, basking in the sun can lead to sunburns and possibly skin cancer.

So, how do we get sufficient Vitamin D without overexposure to the sun or slathering on toxic sunscreens?.

💚 The Power of Vitamin D

Just 10 minutes of sun exposure (without sunscreen!) helps your body produce about 10,000 IU of vitamin D.

Why does this matter? Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to:

• Cancer

• Osteoporosis

• Depression

• Autoimmune diseases

  
  

Studies show that low vitamin D levels increase the risk of cancer by up to 50% (Garland et al., 2006). So, getting enough sunshine is crucial!

🛠️ Sunscreen Facts You Need to Know

🌟 Not all sunscreens are created equal! About 50% of sunscreens in the U.S. do not filter enough UVA rays to meet European UVA protection standards (Environmental Working Group, 2022).

❌ Many sunscreens contain oxybenzone, an endocrine disruptor linked to abnormal sperm function, endometriosis, and allergies.

🌿 Mineral sunscreens (like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) often block UVA rays better than chemical sunscreens.

⚠️ Sunscreens with vitamin A may actually increase the risk of skin tumors (FDA study, 2012).

🌳 Melanoma rarely appears on parts of the body that get daily sun exposure, making it unknown whether sunscreen is effective prevention.

💨 Spray sunscreens can be inhaled, sending toxic chemicals into your lungs.

🛡️ Lotions provide better coverage than sprays, as they create a thicker layer of protection.

⌛ Sunscreen needs reapplied every couple hours—the FDA even banned misleading claims like “waterproof” and “sweatproof.”

👁️ Should You Use Sunscreen?

Many experts now recommend using sunscreen as a last resort because:

☠️ Some toxic chemicals in sunscreen may contribute to cancer.

🤔 It’s unclear whether sunscreen actually prevents cancer.

💚 Sun exposure provides essential Vitamin D, which protects against cancer.

💎 The Best Sunscreens

If you’re going to use sunscreen, make sure it’s safe and non-toxic brand like these:

💚 Alba Botanica

🌟 Attitude Mineral Sunscreen

🌺 Coola Organic (smells amazing!)

✨ Goddess Garden Organics

☀️ Kabana Organic

🌿 Sunology

⛰ Waxhead

🐾 Zeb’s Organics

👑 Sunscreen Alternatives: Go Natural!

Instead of chemical sunscreens, many experts recommend:

⌚ Avoiding sun exposure during peak hours (10 AM – 4 PM).

👓 Wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes.

🎩 Using wide-brimmed hats for shade.

🎾 Opting for lightweight, long-sleeved clothing.

The Takeaway ☀️

• Sunshine is your friend in moderation!. It fuels your body with vitamin D, which is crucial for preventing diseases—including cancer.

• If you're going to be out in the sun for an extended period, consider using a sunscreen product that’s free from toxic chemicals.

Your best sun protection? 

A little common sense, some shade, and a great hat! 🌴

🔒 Sources:

• Garland CF, et al. (2006). Vitamin D and cancer prevention: global perspective. American Journal of Public Health.

• FDA Study (2012). Sunscreen and risk of skin tumors. Food & Drug Administration.

• Environmental Working Group (2022). Sunscreen Guide. ewg.org.