Why Sun Safety Matters More Than Ever
Ultraviolet (UV) rays — from both the sun and artificial sources like tanning beds — are the leading cause of skin cancer, some forms of which can be life threatening. Dermatologists and medical experts agree: daily sun protection is non-negotiable.
But here’s the catch: not all sunscreen products are safe, and many contain hidden risks you might not even see on the label.
Only 25% of Sunscreens Are Considered Safe in 2025
A recent report published by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) revealed a startling statistic: just 1 in 4 sunscreens sold in the United States offer safe, effective protection.
After analyzing over 2,200 products, the EWG found that many contain harmful chemicals and lack balanced UVA/UVB protection — putting your health at risk every time you apply them.
Hidden Dangers: Toxic Ingredients to Avoid in Sunscreens
Before tossing that bottle in your beach bag, take a moment to read the ingredient label carefully — not just the front of the packaging.
Here’s what to look out for:
chemical sunscreens: These sunscreens use toxic synthetic ingredients that can enter your bloodstream after just one application, linger for days or even weeks, and potentially disrupt your health. Avoid these common offenders:
- avobenzone
- oxybenzone
- octinoxate
- homosalate
- octisalate
- octocrylene
- ecamsule
Potential risks include:
- hormone disruption
- skin irritation
- lower testosterone levels in boys
- shorter pregnancies
- low birth weights
- environmental harm (especially to coral reefs and marine life)
“mineral” sunscreens that aren’t really mineral: There are sunscreen products promoted as “mineral-based” with chemical ingredients hidden on the back or bottom of the package. Don’t be fooled by the front label — always read the full ingredients list.
spf boosters inflate numbers and lower protection: Certain ingredients, like butyloctyl salicylate (BOS), can artificially raise the spf without improving actual UV protection. Instead, they only dilute mineral filters while giving a false sense of safety.
a high spf can be too good to be true: The FDA has proposed capping spf at 60 because anything higher provides minimal additional benefit. An spf 100? It’s mostly marketing.
aerosol sprays are risky for health and coverage: They may be convenient, but sunscreen sprays can:
- release harmful inhalable particles
- miss spots due to wind or uneven application
- contain flammable or volatile propellants
What Makes a Sunscreen Safe?
Look for a sunscreen made with mineral ingredients like non-nanoparticle zinc oxide. A natural mineral that sits on top of skin, physically blocking UV rays, non-nano zinc oxide offers broad-spectrum protection safely and effectively.
Why Pure Haven Nontoxic Sun Protection?
At Pure Haven, we’re passionate about creating products that protect you and your family without the toxic tradeoffs. Our sun protection products are:
- made with non-nano zinc oxide
- free of toxins
- gentle on sensitive skin
- reef safe
- broad spectrum and water resistant
When you choose Pure Haven, you choose safe, effective, nontoxic sun protection you can trust.
Shop Safe Sunscreen Now
Ready to ditch the deception and protect your family the Pure Haven way? Explore our line of nontoxic, mineral sun care products, perfect for everyday use — beach days and beyond!
Shop safe sun care products with Pure Haven.
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Sources:
American Cancer Society (7 Mar 2025). Spend Time Outside and Stay Sun-safe.
CNN (20 May 2025). Safest sunscreens: Only 25% are safe and effective, new report says.