Dangers of Oxybenzone in Sunscreen and Why You Should Avoid It

Before reading up on the dangers of Oxybenzone, I want you to understand the 2 main types of sunscreens available on the market: Chemical sunscreen and mineral sunscreen. Comparing the two is like comparing apples to oranges. In the following weeks, we’ll be publishing articles on the other chemicals that we see as unhealthy, then you can draw your own conclusion.

Sunscreen should be a critical part of every skincare routine, providing protection against the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays. Having said that, not all sunscreens are created equally, and the ingredients may affect both human health as well as the environment. One of the most controversial ingredients in chemical sunscreens is oxybenzone, which has been linked to a range of health risks and environmental issues.

What is Oxybenzone?

Oxybenzone, also known as benzophenone-3, is a chemical compound commonly found in many over-the-counter sunscreens. Its primary function is to absorb UV radiation and prevent sunburn by converting UV rays into harmless heat. While oxybenzone is effective in protecting the skin from UV damage, recent studies have raised concerns about its safety, especially when used regularly and in large quantities.

Here are the top 3 things to know about Oxybenzone, the dangers and health risks associated with it, and why you should consider avoiding sunscreens that contain it.

1. Endocrine Disruption:

One of the most alarming dangers of oxybenzone is its potential to act as an endocrine disruptor. Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that interfere with the body's hormone systems, leading to a variety of health problems. Oxybenzone can mimic estrogen, and studies have shown that oxybenzone can cause hormonal imbalances that may lead to fertility problems and puberty disruption in children.

2. Skin Allergies:

Allergic skin reactions is the second concern associated with oxybenzone. People may experience contact dermatitis, a condition characterized by red, itchy, and inflamed skin, after applying sunscreens containing oxybenzone. For people with sensitive skin, this risk is much higher.

3. Systemic Absorption:

Oxybenzone is readily absorbed through the skin and can enter the bloodstream to be distributed throughout the body. A study conducted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2019 found that oxybenzone levels in the bloodstream remained elevated for days after sunscreen application. While the long-term effects of this systemic absorption are not fully understood, the fact that oxybenzone lingers in the body raises concerns about its safety.

4. Environmental Impact of Oxybenzone

The compound has been shown to have a devastating impact on marine ecosystems, particularly coral reefs. Oxybenzone contributes to coral bleaching, a phenomenon in which corals expel the algae living in their tissues, causing them to turn white and eventually die. Coral reefs are vital to marine biodiversity, and their destruction would have a ripple effect on the entire ocean ecosystem.

Hawaii and parts of the Caribbean have banned sunscreens containing oxybenzone to protect their coral reefs. If you’re planning a trip to one of these areas, you will not be allowed to bring sunscreen that contains oxybenzone. Bags are checked at the airport in most cases.

Many consumers are now turning to mineral sunscreens as a safer alternative. Mineral sunscreens contain active ingredients like zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or both, like Kovr. Mineral sunscreens work by sitting on top of the skin to block dangerous UV rays vs. being absorbed into the skin like chemical sunscreens. These ingredients are considered safe for both human health and the environment, making them the ideal choice for anyone looking to avoid the risks associated with chemical sunscreens.