We’ve all heard it: wear sunscreen every day, especially in the summer. But as someone who values both holistic health and hard science, I’ve always wondered — is sunscreen safe? What started as a simple way to avoid sunburn has grown into a multi-billion-dollar industry loaded with confusing ingredients, bold marketing claims, and growing controversy. From hormone-disrupting chemicals to blocked vitamin D, more people are starting to question what’s really in that bottle — and what it’s doing to their bodies.
In this post, we’ll unpack the truth about sunscreen — where it came from, what ingredients have been banned (or should’ve been), how to protect your kids safely, and why the sun isn’t the enemy it’s been made out to be. Whether you’re looking for a cleaner SPF, curious about how sunscreen affects your body, or just want to know what’s safe to use on your baby’s skin, you’ll find answers here.
A Brief History of Sunscreen (And How It Got Complicated)
Long before sunscreen came in sleek bottles, ancient cultures found natural ways to protect themselves from the sun. The Egyptians used rice bran and jasmine, while the Greeks used olive oil. In many Indigenous cultures, herbal salves and mineral clays were applied for both healing and protection.
Modern sunscreen emerged in the 1930s and ’40s with a focus on preventing sunburn, not long-term damage. Early formulas featured basic filters like zinc oxide. But by the 1970s, synthetic chemical ingredients were introduced to raise SPF and improve texture.
The shift from natural oils to synthetic chemicals wasn’t just about skin protection — it was about product performance, shelf life, and marketing.
In the 1980s and 1990s, sunscreen became a public health mandate. SPF numbers climbed, and so did daily use. But so did questions: What’s actually in these products? Where do they go once applied?
Today, we know that ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate are found in human blood, breast milk, and even oceans. What began as helpful protection is now at the center of growing safety and environmental debates.
Sunscreen Ingredient Controversies: A Timeline of Chemical Concerns
As sunscreen evolved, so did its chemistry. But some of the most widely used ingredients have now come under scrutiny for how they affect both people and the planet.
Timeline Highlights
- 1978 – FDA begins regulating sunscreen as an over-the-counter drug.
- 1999 – Oxybenzone becomes widely used. Later linked to hormone disruption.
- 2008 – Chemical UV filters detected in breast milk and urine.
- 2015 – Studies confirm these chemicals damage coral reefs.
- 2018 – Hawaii bans sunscreens with oxybenzone and octinoxate.
- 2021 – FDA requests safety data on 12 chemical sunscreen ingredients.
- 2022–2025 – Mineral sunscreens and “reef-safe” products dominate clean SPF markets.
Ingredients to Be Cautious Of
- Oxybenzone – Endocrine disruptor, linked to coral bleaching
- Octinoxate – Hormone interference, banned in several places
- Avobenzone – Needs stabilizers, potential irritant
- Octocrylene – Can degrade into benzophenone, a suspected carcinogen
- Homosalate – May disrupt estrogen levels, bioaccumulates in the body
Just because it’s on the shelf doesn’t mean it’s safe — especially when it comes to sunscreen.
Why Sunlight Matters: A Holistic Perspective on Sun Exposure
Fear of the sun has become common, but sunlight is essential for life and well-being. A balanced holistic approach recognizes the dangers of overexposure without ignoring the benefits of healthy sun contact.
Vitamin D Production
Sunlight triggers vitamin D synthesis, which is vital for:
- Immune system support
- Hormone balance
- Bone health
- Mood and energy
Vitamin D deficiency is now considered a global health problem — and overuse of sunscreen may be one reason why.
Circadian Rhythm and Mental Health
Morning sunlight helps regulate your body’s sleep-wake cycle. It also promotes serotonin production, which can improve mood and focus. Avoiding the sun entirely can disrupt this natural rhythm.
The Takeaway
Sunlight is not the enemy. A more balanced approach includes:
- Morning sun exposure without sunscreen (10–20 minutes when safe)
- Mineral sunscreen or clothing for prolonged mid-day exposure
- Skin-supporting nutrients like vitamin C, zinc, and healthy fats
Sunscreen for Babies and Kids: What You Should Know
Children’s skin is more sensitive and absorbent, which makes safe sunscreen even more important.
For Babies Under 6 Months
Sunscreen is not generally recommended. Instead:
- Keep infants in the shade
- Use wide-brimmed hats and light clothing
- If necessary, apply small amounts of mineral sunscreen to exposed areas
For Kids Over 6 Months
Choose products that are:
- Mineral-based with non-nano zinc oxide
- Free from synthetic fragrance, parabens, and chemical filters
- SPF 30+ and broad-spectrum
- Water-resistant and pediatrician-approved
Protecting your child’s skin is just one part of raising a healthy kid. What they eat — and the supplements they take — matters just as much. If you’re looking for realistic ideas that actually work, check out my post on Why Nutrition Matters for Kids Ages 4–10 (Plus Easy Snack Prep and Supplement Ideas).
The Best Holistic Sunscreens for Kids, Babies, and Adults
Many mineral sunscreens today are safe enough for the whole family — no need to buy a different formula for every age group. These three options are trusted by holistic health experts, dermatologists, and ingredient-conscious parents alike.
Thinksport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen
Top Pick for All-Around Family Use
- Non-nano zinc oxide (20%)
- Water-resistant (80 mins)
- Free from oxybenzone, parabens, and synthetic fragrance
- EWG top-rated for safety
- Widely available
Average Price (2025): $13–$16 for 3 oz
Why I Recommend It:
This is one of the few holistic sunscreens that checks every box: effective, affordable, family-friendly, and clean. Safe for kids and adults, it’s a great option for daily use and long days in the sun.
Babo Botanicals Sheer Zinc Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
Best for Babies and Kids Over 6 Months
- Non-nano zinc oxide
- Pediatrician-tested and hypoallergenic
- Fragrance-free and tear-free
- Plant-based ingredients with soothing calendula
- EWG Verified and reef-safe
Why I Recommend It:
Gentle enough for sensitive baby skin but protective enough for toddler playtime. A clean, worry-free choice for outdoor activities and water play.
Badger Active Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40
Best for Sensitive Skin and Minimalist Adults
- Only 5–6 ingredients: non-nano zinc, sunflower oil, beeswax, vitamin E
- Certified organic, biodegradable, and reef-safe
- Unscented option available
- Water- and sweat-resistant
Why I Recommend It:
A simple, rugged, back-to-basics formula that’s great for adults with ultra-sensitive skin or anyone who prefers a short ingredient list. Great for hiking, yard work, or low-maintenance sun protection.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sunscreen (2025)
Is sunscreen safe for kids?
Yes — when using mineral sunscreens with non-nano zinc oxide. Avoid chemical filters and artificial fragrance.
Can sunscreen be harmful?
Yes. Ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate have been linked to hormone disruption, allergies, and marine ecosystem damage.
Does sunscreen block vitamin D?
Yes, it can interfere with your body’s natural vitamin D production. Consider brief sun exposure without sunscreen when safe to do so.
What sunscreen is safe during pregnancy?
Mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are safest. Avoid synthetic additives and fragrances.
What is the best natural sunscreen in 2025?
Thinksport SPF 50+ is one of the most trusted and affordable options. It’s clean, non-toxic, and suitable for adults and children alike.
Disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only and reflects my own research and personal opinions. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor, dermatologist, or healthcare provider before beginning any new skincare or sun protection routine — especially for children or during pregnancy. Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you.
Sources
- FDA. Sunscreen: How to Help Protect Your Skin from the Sun
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/understanding-over-counter-medicines/sunscreen - Environmental Working Group. Sunscreen Guide 2025
https://www.ewg.org/sunscreen/ - Matta et al. (2019). Systemic Absorption of Sunscreen Ingredients
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31184797/ - Nature Communications. Sunscreen chemicals and coral bleaching
https://www.nature.com/articles/ncomms11893 - NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. Vitamin D Fact Sheet
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminD-HealthProfessional/
Devin Brundell is the founder of Brundell Co., a wellness platform dedicated to natural healing, lifestyle medicine, and intentional living. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU) and a Bachelor’s in Holistic Health Sciences from Quantum University. Devin is also finalizing certification as a Board Certified Holistic Health Practitioner through the AADP. His mission is to empower others to reclaim health through practical tools, clean living, and purpose-driven change — one intentional choice at a time.