The Challenge of Moisturizers with SPF
My Healthy Attitude About
why it’s hard to find a moisturizer with SPF!
I am often asked for recommendations on moisturizers with SPF…you know a one stop shop. It is near impossible to find a moisturizer with safe SPF. Most moisturizers with SPF contain hormone disruptors as the active ingredient for sun protection. Finding a moisturizer with SPF that doesn't contain endocrine disruptors can be challenging due to several factors:
1. Limited ingredient options: Some of the commonly used UV filters in sunscreens, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, have been identified as endocrine disruptors. These chemicals have been shown to interfere with hormone function in the body. Unfortunately, many sunscreen manufacturers rely on these ingredients because they are effective in protecting against UV radiation.
2. Regulatory issues: In some regions, like the US, certain UV filters that are known endocrine disruptors are still allowed in sunscreens due to regulatory approval. While there is growing awareness about the potential risks of these chemicals, updating regulations and banning harmful ingredients can take time. However you can impact change by texting RAISEUPBEAUTY to 52886 (US) to make your voice heard.
3. Formulation challenges: Creating an effective sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection and a pleasant texture can be challenging. Some endocrine-disrupting ingredients have been used historically because they provide good sun protection or are easy to incorporate into formulas. Removing these ingredients without compromising the sunscreen's efficacy and texture can be difficult.
4. Cost considerations: Non-endocrine-disrupting UV filters may be more expensive or less readily available than their traditional counterparts. Some manufacturers might choose to use cheaper, endocrine-disrupting ingredients to keep costs down. Clear Zinc Oxide is quite expensive.
5. Lack of consumer awareness: Many consumers are not fully aware of the potential risks associated with endocrine disruptors in skincare products. As a result, there may be less demand for endocrine-disruptor-free sunscreen, which means fewer companies are motivated to develop and market such products.
Despite these challenges, some companies and brands have recognized the importance of offering safer sunscreen options and have developed products free from endocrine disruptors. If you are concerned about finding a sunscreen or moisturizer with SPF that doesn't contain endocrine disruptors, you can try looking for products labeled as "reef-safe," "hormone-disruptor-free," or "chemical-free" sunscreens. Additionally, consider checking the ingredients list and opt for mineral-based sunscreens that use zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as UV filters, as these are less likely to be endocrine disruptors. I have linked my favorites here and here.
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