Summer has officially arrived, and some of the most beautiful beaches are here in Southwest Florida. While outside, it’s crucial to protect your skin from the sun’s rays. Unfortunately, most beach goers use chemical sunscreen, which is convenient but far from safe. 

This type of sunscreen contains chemicals that absorb into your skin and bloodstream, as recently reported by the FDA. Once these chemicals enter the bloodstream, they can affect breast milk, impair liver function, generate harmful free radicals cells, and mimic hormones that disrupt the endocrine system. 

Oxybenzone and Octinoxate are two of the most toxic substances in many chemical sunscreens to be aware of. Besides causing harm to humans, these chemicals have also led to irreversible damage to marine life and coral reefs. Hawaii is the first state to ban the sale and distribution of Oxybenzone and Octinoxate. 

Mineral sunscreens contain only two earth minerals—zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Some natural brands contain only zinc oxide, but the combination of both ingredients offers superior UVA and UVB protection. They are safe and healing to the skin, as well as non-toxic to ocean ecosystems. The downside of mineral sunscreens is they leave a white, pasty residue on the skin and are more expensive than chemical products. 

Humans need the sun—just like living creatures do. Moderation, education, and common sense are the keys to safe exposure. Both chemical and natural sunscreens block the production of vitamin D, which naturally occurs when your skin is exposed to sunlight. Depending on your particular skin type and health history, soak up the sunshine in the morning and late afternoon, avoiding peak UV hours. 

If you must be outside in the hottest daylight hours, wear a protective white or light-colored swim shirt, wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. Be sure to apply liberal amounts of sunscreen liberally on any exposed skin. Elysian Fields carries Absolutely Natural Sunscreen, a reef-safe brand that’s made right here in Florida. 

Location: 1273 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. For more information, call 941-361-3006 orvisit https://www.elysianfieldsonline.com/