Sunscreen Ingredients Approved within the EU

Other ingredients approved within the EU and other parts of the world, which have not been included in the current FDA Monograph:

UV-filter	Other names	Maximum concentration	Permitted in
4-Methylbenzylidene camphor	Enzacamene, Parsol 5000, Eusolex 6300, MBC	4%*	EC, AUS
Tinosorb M	Bisoctrizole, Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol, MBBT	10%*	EC, AUS, JP
Tinosorb S	Bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenol triazine, Bemotrizinol, BEMT, anisotriazine	10% (EC, AUS) 3% (JP)*	EC, AUS, JP
Neo Heliopan AP	Bisdisulizole Disodium, Disodium phenyl dibenzimidazole tetrasulfonate, bisimidazylate, DPDT	10%	EC, AUS
Mexoryl XL	Drometrizole Trisiloxane	15%	EC, AUS
Benzophenone-9	Uvinul DS 49, CAS 3121-60-6, Sodium Dihydroxy Dimethoxy Disulfobenzophenone	10%	JP
Uvinul T 150	Octyl triazone, ethylhexyl triazone, EHT	5% (EC, AUS) 3% (JP)*	EC, AUS
Uvinul A Plus	Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate	10% (EC,JP)	EC , JP
Uvasorb HEB	Iscotrizinol, Diethylhexyl butamido triazone, DBT	10% (EC) 5% (JP) *	EC, JP
Parsol SLX	Dimethico-diethylbenzalmalonate, Polysilicone-15	10%	EC, AUS, JP
Isopentenyl-4-methoxycinnamate	Isoamyl p-Methoxycinnamate, IMC, Neo Heliopan E1000, Amiloxate	10% *	EC, AUS

Many of the ingredients not approved by the FDA are relatively new and developed to absorb UVA.

^* Time and Extent Application (TEA), Proposed Rule on FDA approval expected last year in 2009.

FDA Allowable Ingredients in Sunscreens

The following are the FDA allowable active ingredients in sunscreens:

UV-filter	Other names	Maximum concentration	Permitted in these countries	Results of safety testing
p-Aminobenzoic acid	PABA	15% (5% EC-will be banned from sale to consumers from 8 October 2009)	EC, USA, AUS	Protects against skin tumors in mice. Shown to increase DNA defects, however, and is now less commonly used.
Padimate O	OD-PABA, octyldimethyl-PABA, σ-PABA	8% (EC,USA,AUS) 10% (JP) (Not currently supported in EU and may be delisted)	EC, USA, AUS, JP	Not tested
Phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid	Ensulizole, Eusolex 232, PBSA, Parsol HS	4% (US,AUS) 8% (EC) 3% (JP)	EC,USA, AUS, JP	Genotoxic in bacteria
Cinoxate	2-Ethoxyethyl p-methoxycinnamate	3% (US) 6% (AUS)	USA, AUS	Not tested
Dioxybenzone	Benzophenone-8	3%	USA, AUS	Not tested
Oxybenzone	Benzophenone-3, Eusolex 4360, Escalol 567	6% (US) 10% (AUS,EU) 5% (JP)	EC, USA, AUS, JP	Not tested
Homosalate	Homomethyl salicylate, HMS	10% (EC, JP) 15% (US,AUS)	EC, USA, AUS, JP	Not tested
Menthyl anthranilate	Meradimate	5%	USA, AUS	Not tested
Octocrylene	Eusolex OCR, 2-cyano-3,3diphenyl acrylic acid, 2-ethylhexylester	10%	EC,USA, AUS, JP	Increases ROS
Octyl methoxycinnamate	Octinoxate, EMC, OMC, Ethylmethoxycinnamate, Escalol 557, 2-ethylhexyl-paramethoxycinnamate, Parsol MCX	7.5% (US) 10% (EC,AUS)20% (JP)	EC,USA, AUS, JP
Octyl salicylate	Octisalate, 2-Ethylhexyl salicylate, Escalol 587,	5% (EC,USA,AUS) 10% (JP)	EC,USA, AUS, JP	Not tested
Sulisobenzone	2-Hydroxy-4-Methoxybenzophenone-5-sulfonic acid, 3-benzoyl-4-hydroxy-6-methoxybenzenesulfonic acid, Benzophenone-4, Escalol 577	5% (EC) 10% (US, AUS, JP)	EC,USA, AUS, JP
Trolamine salicylate	Triethanolamine salicylate	12%	USA, AUS	Not tested
Avobenzone	1-(4-methoxyphenyl)-3-(4-tert-butylphenyl)propane-1,3-dione, Butyl methoxy dibenzoylmethane, BMDBM, Parsol 1789, Eusolex 9020	3% (US) 5% (EC,AUS)10% (JP)	EC, USA, AUS, JP	Not available
Ecamsule	Mexoryl SX, Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid	10%	EC,AUS (US:Approved in certain formulations up to 3% via New Drug Application (NDA) Route)	Protects against skin tumors in mice
Titanium dioxide	CI77891	25% (No limit Japan)	EC,USA, AUS, JP	Not tested
Zinc oxide		25% (US) 20% (AUS) (EC-25% provided particle size >100 nm) (Japan, No Limit)	EC,USA, AUS, JP	Protects against skin tumors in mice

Active Ingredients for Sunscreens and Sunblocks

The principal ingredients in sunscreens are usually aromatic molecules conjugated with carbonyl groups. This general structure allows the molecule to absorb high-energy ultraviolet rays and release the energy as lower-energy rays, thereby preventing the skin-damaging ultraviolet rays from reaching the skin.

So, upon exposure to UV light, most of the ingredients (with the notable exception of avobenzone) do not undergo significant chemical change, allowing these ingredients to retain the UV-absorbing potency without significant photodegradation. A chemical stabilizer is included in some sunscreens containing avobenzone to slow its breakdown – examples include formulations containing Helioplex and AvoTriplex. The stability of avobenzone can also be improved by bemotrizinol, octocrylene and various other photostabilisers.

Some sunscreens also include enzymes like photolyase, which are claimed to be able to repair UV-damaged DNA.

Top 10 Reasons for Going Organic

1. Organics are Healthier 

Typically organic food contains higher levels of vitamin C enzymes and essential minerals such as calcium (63 percent higher), magnesium (118 percent higher), iron (73 percent higher) and chromium, cancer-fighting antioxidants and being 29 percent lower in mercury. Feeding the soil with organic matter instead of ammonia and other synthetic fertilizers has proven to increase nutrients in produce, with higher levels of vitamins and minerals found in organic food, according to the 2005 study, “Elevating Antioxidant levels in food through organic farming and food processing,” Organic Center State of Science Review (1.05)

2. Taste Better and Truer Flavor

Scientists now know what we eaters have known all along – organic food often tastes better. It makes sense that food taste more appetizing when raised in naturally in nature, but researchers at Washington State University just proved this as fact in lab taste trials where the organic fruits were consistently judged as sweeter. It makes sense that chemicals are not going to taste like mother nature provided. Organic produce is often lower in nitrates and higher in antioxidants than conventional food. A number of top chefs choose organic, and every year many are involved in the Soil Association’s Organic Food Awards.

3. High standards 

Organic food comes from trusted sources. All organic farms and food companies are inspected at least once a year. The standards for organic food are laid down in European, US and Canadian law. Genetically modified (GM) crops and ingredients are not allowed under organic standards as well as MSG and other provin toxins. Organic is the only de facto seal of reassurance against these and other modern, lab-produced additions to our food supply, and the only food term with built in inspections and federal regulatory teeth.

4. Build Healthy Soil

Mono-cropping and chemical fertilizer dependency has taken a toll with a loss of top soil estimated at a cost of $40 billion per year in the U.S., according to David Pimental of Cornell University. Add to this an equally disturbing loss of micro nutrients and minerals in fruits and vegetables.

5. Our Food Source Delima

There is growing concern about the high use of antibiotics on farm animals and the possible effects on human health. Soil Association standards prohibit the routine use of antibiotics. Animal welfare is taken very seriously under organic standards. The benefits of the organic approach are acknowledged by animal welfare organizations such as Compassion in World Farming as well as the UK and US government.

6. Kinder to Our Earth

The UK government has said that it is better for wildlife, causes lower pollution from sprays, produces less carbon dioxide – the main global warming gas – and less dangerous wastes.

7. Avoids Pesticides 

Over 400 chemical pesticides are routinely used in conventional farming and residues are often present in non-organic food. The UK government has recently found high levels of pesticide residues in baby food, spinach, dried fruit, bread, apples, celery, and chips. Chemicals kill.

8. Promote Biodiversity

Visit an organic farm and you’ll notice see a buzz of animal, bird and insect activity. These organic oases are thriving, diverse habitats. Native plants, birds and hawks return usually after the first season of organic practices; beneficial insects allow for a greater balance, and indigenous animals find these farms a safe haven. Organic farmers bring balance back into farming were all aspects of the farm building for the future crop and soil. Support Organic farms – they feed us and we want them around for a long time. According to Organic Farming Research Foundation, as of 2006 there are approximately 10,000 certified organic producers in the U.S. compared to 2500 to 3,000 tracked in 1994. People are taking charge of their own health.

9. Protect Future Generations

Reduce toxic load on humans and the planet. Before children are even born the toxic risk from pesticides has already begun. Studies show that infants are exposed to hundreds of harmful chemicals in utero. In fact, our nation is now reaping the results of four generations of exposure to agricultural and industrial chemicals, whose safety was deemed on adult tolerance levels, not on children’s. According to the National Academy of Science, “neurologic and behavioral effects may result from low-level exposure to pesticides.” Numerous studies show that pesticides can adversely affect the nervous system, increase the risk of cancer, and decrease fertility. Buying organic food promotes a less toxic environment for all living things. With only 0.5 percent of crop and pasture land in organic, according to USDA that leaves 99.5 percent of farm acres in the U.S. at risk of exposure to noxious agricultural chemicals.

10. It’s Important – Your Important 

We need to support companies that support us. Organic companies are on the cutting edge of product supply for the aware consumer and if we use our consumer power to support them they are more likely to thrive and add additional products and services to their offering. We do make a difference – every purchase says “yes I want pure products on my plate and in my cosmetic bag”.  It’s important – you’re important.

Just Say No to Phthalates

Phthalates, while not a household name, are abundant in a lot of skin care products. Phthalates are making their way into the news lately due to the potential dangers to the long term health of our babies. This potentially harmful man-made-chemical is often hidden in “fragrances” to help a fragrance stay on the skin longer. Skin ‘care’ for babies should be gentle, clean and kind.

But a deeper look shines the light on this sneaky use of wording!

“At this time, we do not know what the potential long-term effects might be, but there is a large body of animal studies to suggest developmental and reproductive toxicity (from phthalates) and a few human studies with changes in health outcomes as well,” Dr. Sheela Sathyanarayana (from the University of Washington) told Reuters Health.

Better safe than sorry is a good rule of thumb.  Get into the habit of reading every label for ingredients.  When in doubt simply move on.  We’ll keep you posted on new research that develops regarding potentially harmful products.

Essential Oils for Immune System

In the quest to find viable ways to strengthen a child’s immune system, I have discovered essential oils. These oils are volatile substances extracted from plants. Pure essential oils have powerful therapeutic effects. Most of them are natural antiseptics, and certain oils have highly effective, immune-boosting, disease-fighting properties that can kill airborne viruses, bacteria and fungi. They can be used preventively and also to treat colds and infectious disease by reducing discomfort, helping to shorten the duration and preventing secondary infections.

Essential oils can be valuable in treating many other childhood ailments. Some are analgesic or anti-inflammatory, helping to reduce aches, pain and swelling. Others can alleviate insomnia or hyperactivity and calm anxious or troubled children. They can also be used to treat minor injuries. In addition to being very safe and effective, essential oils are fun and easy to use.

Choose High-Quality Oils

Not all essential oils are created equal. They must be chosen and used with great care. Many are highly adulterated and over-processed with chemicals. To obtain the beneficial therapeutic qualities, you must use pure essential oils. Many people have purchased inexpensive oils and have been very disappointed with the results, leading them to believe that “essential oils do not work”. Some pure essential oils can be expensive since they are hard to come by. It can take as many as 500 to 2,000 pounds of raw plant material to produce a single pound of pure essential oil. These plants should also be organically grown whenever possible. In addition, the harvesting procedures and extraction processes are critical to quality. It is important to have documentation of the purity and quality of an essential oil so you don’t get something that just smells nice, without the therapeutic qualities. Always buy oils in dark glass bottles. Never buy essential oils in plastic containers or put them into anything made of plastic. They not compatible with plastic. Store in a cool, dark place, away from heat and tightly capped.

How to Use Essential Oils

Inhaling the oils by diffusion produces immediate beneficial effects and is one of the easiest ways to use essential oils. Diffusion releases the highly aromatic molecules of the oils into the air so that we can breathe them in. Inhalation sends impulses directly to the brain and will trigger various healing responses, depending on which oil is being used. The physical body as well as the emotions can be therapeutically affected. Many oils have good germicidal properties and can be very effective in disinfecting a room without using harmful chemicals. When diffused, these oils can cleanse and purify the air by removing toxins and killing pathogenic bacteria, viruses, molds and fungi. They can also destroy odors. Regular diffusion can keep you and your kids healthy through out the cold and flu season.

A spray bottle used to mist houseplants can also be used to diffuse the oils. Fill with water and add 15 or 20 drops. This will clear and clean the air, but does not have the long-lasting effects of a diffuser or nebulizer. A diffuser or nebulizer sprays an ultra-fine mist into the air.

Diluted oils can be applied directly to the body by massaging the affected area, the bottom of the feet or with a full body massage. The tiny molecular structure of an essential oil allows it to be filtered through the skin via the hair follicles and into the bloodstream or to other parts of the body. The oils can nourish and oxygenate every cell of the body. It can take anywhere from 20 minutes to 7 hours for essential oils to be completely absorbed through the skin, depending on how much body fat there is. In children, they are usually absorbed very quickly.

Essential oils can be very powerful. They should always be diluted before applying directly to the skin or to the bath of a child. They can be used in a carrier oil, mixed with water or added to creams or lotions. Patch testing can be done for children with sensitive skin or allergies. This is done by applying a little diluted oil to the inside of the elbow. Leave it unwashed for twenty-four hours and if any redness or itching occurs, that oil should not be used.

Caution: Essential oils should never be taken internally, without the advice of a professional. Keep all essential oils away from the eyes. Keep all essential oils out of the sight and reach of children. Never attempt to treat a serious illness yourself without first referring to a qualified practitioner.

Many books have been written on aromatherapy and the use of essential oils. Instructions in applying the oils vary widely with different aromatherapists and authors. Simplers Botanical Company has been making essential oils and extracts since 1981. Their oils are absolutely pure and guaranteed to be organic or ethically wildcrafted and properly distilled or extracted. They have written the Aromatherapy Guide to Essential Oils, which is a brief summary of the views of a wide variety of experts in the field of aromatherapy. In this booklet, they suggest the following guidelines for application of essential oils for use with adults. In parenthesis and italics, I’ve added general recommendations for use with children.

Paba, Benzophenone, Parabens, Padimate-O

So what exactly do you need to avoid when choosing a sunscreen? Here are some unsavory, even toxic, ingredients you will want to stay away from if you can:

PABA: This is not widely used anymore, but just in case. Many people are very sensitive to this ingredient and can end up with red, itchy skin.

Benzophenone (benzophenone-3), homosalate, and octy-methoxycinnamate (octinoxate): These chemicals are bad news because they have shown estrogenic activity in lab tests. Oxybenzone is aderivative of benzophenone and it is linked to allergies, hormone disruption, and cell damage. According to the CDC 97% of Americans are contaminated with this widely-used sunscreen ingredient.

Parabens (butyl-, ethyl-, methyl-, and propyl-): Parabens are common in sunscreens so avoiding them may prove difficult. They are preservatives that have estrogenic qualities. They have produced abnormal hormonal effects following on laboratory rodents, particularly male, resulting in decreased testosterone levels and other abnormalities. They have also been found to accumulate in the breast tissue of women with breast cancer.

Padimate-O and Parsol 1789 (Avobenzone): While on the surface of the skin these chemicals appear to prevent UV damage but when absorbed into the skin they can actually damage DNA. There is evidence that the sun’s light may cause these chemicals to become reactive and cause free-radical damage when they’re absorbed. I find it alarming that pediatricians often recommend these very ingredients.

In general if you want to know which sunscreens are usually loaded with the bad stuff….oh just the easy to find ones like Coppertone, Banana Boat, Avon, Nivea, Neutrogena, The Body Shop, etc. Also even some of the ones that appear to be more natural like Kiss My Face or Aveeno have some pretty dirty sunscreens.