As many of you know, advocacy for safer non-toxic personal care products is important to me. I am excited when I see that our voice is being heard!
Hawaii state lawmakers just passed legislation (currently waiting on the Governor's signature) that will ban sunscreens that contain oxybenzone and octinoxate, both linked to harming coral reefs and causing hormone disruption.
This is the second year in a row that they attempted such legislative process and I am so excited that the bill got across the finish line this time to set an example for other states to follow!
I hope that this is a wake-up call for companies to change their toxic formulas to safer options, but the good news is that there are already a variety of sunscreens on the market that comply with the new Hawaii regulation.
My Favorite Non-Toxic Hawaii Approved Sunscreens Include:
This is one of the best mineral-based suncreens I have ever used! It absorbs easily, has a nice vanilla scent, and has great staying power because it is water resistant. Unlike many other zinc-based sunscreens, it doesn't leave behind any white streaks caused by nanoparticles. Nano-particles are toxic to our eco system because they are washed off when we are playing in the water and cause bleaching to our coral reefs. So, it is important when looking for a mineral based sunscreen, that they are "non-nano" and this one fits the bill! This lotion can be used on your face and body, but I primarily use it for my body. It rubs in easily.
EWG Ranking: 1
On the cutting edge of technology, this uses a non-aerosol, bag-on-valve actuator system. While it delivers the convenience and even application of an aerosol, it is actually powered by air. Making it safer with no harmful chemicals that aerosols spray into the atmosphere and skin. This new formula provides a shield from UVA, UVB, and even Blue Light rays for maximum protection. This is another great option for active and squirmy kiddos who don't like to sit still and what I love about this is that it goes on white and then rubs in clear, so you can see where you sprayed it!
This Countersun Mineral Suncreen Stick SPF 30 can be used on your body and face. This is great for quick and protective coverage when you are at the beach or participating in water sports. All of my friends with kiddos LOVE this stick because their kids won't sit still long enough for lotion. This is a huge time savor on application, just quickly swipe and then rub in without all the mess! Best perk? This sunscreen doesn't run and sting my eyes when I am sweating!
EWG Ranking: 1
I use this every day instead of foundation. It provides sheer weightless coverage that leaves my skin dewy and glowing. It leaves my skin hydrated, but not greasy. It has peony root and vitamin C help to diminish age spots and hyaluronic acid to promote firmer skin. You can use the sun stick mentioned above under this and other makeup for additional SPF coverage.
EWG Ranking: 1
I am proud to have played a small part in this bill's passage! So, let's do our part in protecting our families and our coral reefs by shopping for safer options this summer!
xo,
Meredith