Protecting your child’s delicate skin from harmful UV rays is essential, but not all sunscreens are created equal. Many mainstream sunscreens contain chemical UV filters, preservatives, and additives that may cause skin irritation, hormone disruption, or even long-term health risks—especially for children with sensitive skin.
To help you make the safest choice, we’ve put together a guide on which ingredients to avoid, where they come from, and healthier alternatives that still provide excellent sun protection.
🚫 10 Ingredients to Avoid in Sunscreens
When shopping for sunscreen, check the ingredient list carefully. Many chemical sunscreen ingredients come from petrochemical sources and can be absorbed into the skin, affecting both human health and the environment. Here’s a breakdown of the most concerning sunscreen ingredients, where they come from, and why you may want to avoid them.
1. Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3)
🔎 Sourcing: Synthetic chemical derived from petroleum-based compounds.
⚠️ Why it’s a concern:
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Endocrine disruptor linked to hormone imbalances, particularly affecting estrogen levels in children and pregnant women.
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Absorbed into the body and detected in breast milk, urine, and blood samples.
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Common cause of skin irritation and allergies.
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Environmental impact: Toxic to coral reefs and marine life, leading to bans in Hawaii, Key West, and Palau.
✅ Better alternative: Zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which sit on top of the skin instead of being absorbed.
Oxybenzone is one of the most common chemical UV filters, but it comes with several red flags. As a synthetic compound derived from petroleum, it is readily absorbed through the skin, raising concerns about its potential to disrupt hormone levels, particularly estrogen. This is especially worrisome for children and teens, whose endocrine systems are still developing.
Beyond personal health risks, oxybenzone is a major environmental hazard, as it washes off in the ocean and contributes to coral reef damage, leading to bans in places like Hawaii and Key West. If you want a safer alternative, mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide provide effective protection without absorption risks or environmental harm.
2. Octinoxate (Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate)
🔎 Sourcing: Petroleum-derived UV filter commonly used in chemical sunscreens.
⚠️ Why it’s a concern:
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Endocrine disruptor linked to thyroid hormone imbalances.
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Absorbed into the bloodstream and can accumulate in the body.
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Environmental impact: Found in marine life and contributes to coral reef bleaching.
✅ Better alternative: Mineral sunscreens with non-nano zinc oxide, which provide safe, broad-spectrum protection without harming ecosystems.
Octinoxate is another petroleum-derived chemical filter that absorbs UVB rays. Like oxybenzone, it is absorbed into the body and has been linked to thyroid hormone disruption. Studies suggest it may interfere with the endocrine system, making it a concern for long-term exposure.
Additionally, octinoxate is a known environmental pollutant that contributes to coral bleaching when it enters marine ecosystems. Choosing mineral-based sunscreens that sit on top of the skin, rather than being absorbed, is a safer option for both human health and the environment.
3. Homosalate
🔎 Sourcing: Synthetic UV filter made from petrochemicals.
⚠️ Why it’s a concern:
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Can accumulate in the body, raising concerns about long-term hormone disruption.
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Possible links to reproductive toxicity and developmental issues in children.
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Derived from non-renewable fossil fuels, contributing to pollution.
✅ Better alternative: Titanium dioxide, which offers effective UVB protection without hormone risks.
Homosalate is a petrochemical-derived UVB-absorbing sunscreen ingredient. While it is generally considered safe in small amounts, it has been found to accumulate in the body, raising concerns about its long-term effects on hormone levels. Studies have suggested potential reproductive toxicity, making it a questionable choice for children.
Additionally, since homosalate is derived from fossil fuels, it contributes to non-renewable resource depletion and environmental pollution. Switching to zinc oxide-based sunscreens eliminates this risk while ensuring broad-spectrum protection.
4. Octocrylene
🔎 Sourcing: Petrochemical-derived sunscreen stabilizer.
⚠️ Why it’s a concern:
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Can release benzene, a known carcinogen, when exposed to sunlight.
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Irritant for sensitive skin, leading to redness, rashes, and allergic reactions.
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Environmental impact: Non-biodegradable and toxic to aquatic life.
✅ Better alternative: Non-nano zinc oxide, which provides stable sun protection without breaking down.
Octocrylene is a synthetic sunscreen stabilizer, but it comes with significant concerns. It has been found to break down under sunlight, potentially releasing benzene, a known carcinogen. Additionally, it is a common skin irritant, especially for those with sensitive skin or allergies.
From an environmental standpoint, octocrylene is non-biodegradable and toxic to marine life. Opting for non-nano zinc oxide offers broad-spectrum protection while ensuring stability in sunlight without harmful byproducts.
5. Avobenzone
🔎 Sourcing: A synthetic UV absorber derived from aromatic ketones.
⚠️ Why it’s a concern:
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Highly unstable in sunlight, requiring stabilizers that may include harmful chemicals like octocrylene.
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May cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, particularly in sensitive individuals.
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Can degrade over time, reducing its effectiveness.
✅ Better alternative: Zinc oxide, which is naturally stable and provides broad-spectrum UV protection.
Avobenzone is one of the few chemical sunscreen ingredients that provide broad-spectrum UV protection, but it comes with its own issues. This synthetic UV absorber is unstable in sunlight, meaning it must be paired with stabilizers like octocrylene, which introduces additional risks.
Avobenzone may also cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, especially in children with sensitive skin. Since it does not break down as easily as natural mineral filters, it can persist in the environment. Zinc oxide-based sunscreens provide immediate, stable protection without requiring chemical stabilizers.
6. Fragrance/Parfum
🔎 Sourcing: Often derived from petroleum by-products or synthetic aromatic compounds.
⚠️ Why it’s a concern:
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Can contain undisclosed chemicals, including phthalates and hormone disruptors.
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Common cause of skin irritation and allergic reactions, especially in young children.
✅ Better alternative: Fragrance-free sunscreens, which are hypoallergenic and gentler on the skin.
Fragrance in sunscreens is often a hidden source of synthetic chemicals, many of which aren’t disclosed on labels. These chemical blends can contain phthalates, which are known hormone disruptors, and may trigger skin allergies, headaches, or respiratory irritation.
Because many artificial fragrances are petroleum-derived, they contribute to long-term environmental pollution. Choosing fragrance-free or hypoallergenic sunscreens is the best way to reduce exposure to unnecessary chemicals.
7. PABA (Para-Aminobenzoic Acid)
🔎 Sourcing: Amino acid derivative once used in older sunscreen formulations.
⚠️ Why it’s a concern:
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Known to cause skin irritation, redness, and allergic reactions.
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Can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight, leading to greater sun damage.
✅ Better alternative: PABA-free mineral sunscreens, particularly those with zinc oxide.
Once a popular UVB-absorbing sunscreen ingredient, PABA has largely been phased out due to widespread reports of allergic reactions and skin irritation. Studies have shown that PABA can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight, making users more prone to sun damage rather than protecting them.
PABA can also degrade when exposed to sunlight, producing harmful by-products. While most modern sunscreens no longer contain PABA, some older formulations may still include it. To avoid unnecessary risks, choosing PABA-free, mineral-based sunscreens is the safest option.
8. Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A Palmitate)
🔎 Sourcing: Synthetic Vitamin A derivative used for its antioxidant properties.
⚠️ Why it’s a concern:
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Potentially accelerates skin damage when exposed to UV light.
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Some studies suggest it may increase the risk of skin tumors.
✅ Better alternative: Natural antioxidants like red raspberry seed oil, which protect the skin without harmful side effects.
Retinyl palmitate is a synthetic form of Vitamin A added to sunscreens for its antioxidant properties, but it may not be safe for sun-exposed skin. When exposed to UV rays, retinyl palmitate can accelerate skin damage by promoting collagen breakdown and cell degradation.
Some studies suggest long-term use may increase the risk of skin tumors. Since children’s skin is thinner and more absorbent, they may be even more vulnerable to these effects. Instead of synthetic antioxidants, natural UV-protective compounds like red raspberry seed oil are a safer option.
9. Phthalates
🔎 Sourcing: Found in plastics, synthetic fragrances, and personal care products.
⚠️ Why they’re a concern:
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Endocrine disruptors that interfere with hormone function.
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Linked to developmental and reproductive health concerns, particularly in children.
✅ Better alternative: Phthalate-free sunscreens, which are labeled as free from synthetic fragrance additives.
Phthalates are commonly found in plastics, personal care products, and synthetic fragrances, making them difficult to avoid. These chemicals are endocrine disruptors that interfere with hormone function and have been linked to developmental and reproductive health concerns.
Because they aren't always clearly listed on ingredient labels, particularly when included under "fragrance," they can be hard to detect. Fortunately, many newer sunscreen formulations now label themselves as "phthalate-free", making it easier to select safer products.
10. Parabens (Methylparaben, Propylparaben, etc.)
🔎 Sourcing: Synthetic preservatives used to prevent bacterial growth.
⚠️ Why they’re a concern:
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Mimic estrogen, potentially disrupting hormone balance.
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Linked to reproductive issues and increased cancer risks.
✅ Better alternative: Paraben-free sunscreens that use natural preservatives like vitamin E.
Parabens, including methylparaben and propylparaben, are widely used as preservatives in personal care products, including sunscreens. While they effectively prevent bacterial growth, they also come with significant health concerns.
Parabens mimic estrogen, potentially disrupting the body’s hormone balance. This has led to concerns about their role in reproductive issues and certain cancers. Because parabens are found in multiple personal care products, cumulative exposure can add up over time. The safest choice is to opt for paraben-free sunscreens that use natural preservatives like vitamin E.
🌿 Safer SPF Ingredients: Natural & Mineral-Based Options
Looking for a sunscreen that’s effective and safe for children? Here are healthier alternatives that provide broad-spectrum UV protection without harmful chemicals.
✅ Best Natural UV Blockers
🌞 Zinc Oxide: A natural mineral UV blocker that provides broad-spectrum protection without being absorbed into the skin.
🌞 Titanium Dioxide: A gentle, reef-safe mineral filter that sits on the skin rather than penetrating it.
✅ Skin-Nourishing SPF Boosters
🌿 Red Raspberry Seed Oil: Contains natural SPF properties and is rich in antioxidants.
🌿 Carrot Seed Oil: High in vitamin A and antioxidants, offering mild UV protection.
🌿 Shea Butter & Coconut Oil: Provide moisture and skin barrier support, though they should be combined with mineral SPF for full protection.
🌿 Green Tea Extract & Aloe Vera: Help soothe and protect the skin after sun exposure.
Choosing the Best Sunscreen for Your Family
While chemical sunscreens are widely available and marketed as convenient and effective, many of their key ingredients raise concerns about hormone disruption, environmental damage, and long-term safety.
Choosing a safer sunscreen isn’t just about blocking UV rays—it’s about making an informed decision that protects both your child’s health and the environment. By switching to mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, you can ensure effective, broad-spectrum protection without the risks of chemical absorption, hormone disruption, or coral reef damage.
Additionally, opting for fragrance-free, phthalate-free, and paraben-free formulas reduces exposure to unnecessary synthetic additives. With greater awareness and better labeling from responsible brands, it’s easier than ever to find sunscreens that are both safe and effective. Prioritizing clean, non-toxic ingredients will not only safeguard your child’s skin but also contribute to a healthier planet for future generations.
