SPF can be made from a range of different ingredients, but just because they provide sun protection, does not mean they're inherently good for our beautiful bodies. And that's where oxybenzone comes in.
Oxybenzone is an organic compound that fights UV degradation not only in our skin, but in items like furniture, toys and other plastic.
It is used as a UV filter as it naturally absorbs the UVB rays that we are all trying to avoid. But it makes you wonder, once oxybenzone absorbs the UV rays... then where do they go?
Is oxybenzone in Sunscreen Good or Bad?
In short, oxybenzone is a bad boy.
It stops the UVB rays from burning your skin, but in turn, absorbs them through your skin. Your body then has to metabolise the ultraviolet radiation before it's excreted through your urine.
There is also a widespread concern about oxybenzone interfering with functions of certain hormones including oestrogen. Reproductive Toxicology suggests pregnant women using oxybenzone sunscreen daily can absorb enough to cause a birth defect called Hirschsprung’s disease.
"...research shows it (oxybenzone) to be a possible endocrine disruptor as well as having 'high concerns' for biochemical and cellular change impacts due to the production of reactive oxygen species".
Further, in comparison to mineral ingredients like the Zinc Oxide used in Super Sun Mineral SPF, it doesn't provide proper protection from UVA rays (skin cancer causing).
How can I be Oxybenzone Safe?
Sunny Skin SPF is a 100% Mineral SPF that is free from all harmful ingredients - including oxybenzone.
Instead of absorbing harmful radiation through your body and waiting for you to excrete it, mineral SPF's like Super Sun reflect the rays so they don't come in contact with you internally or externally.
In summary, avoid oxybenzone, and go mineral.