Non toxic Sunscreen Solutions
For years, we've been told to avoid the sun at all costs. Stay indoors. Cover every inch of exposed skin. Apply sunscreen constantly. While protecting your skin from burning is important, somewhere along the way many people developed an unhealthy fear of sunlight itself.
The result? Millions of Americans are now deficient in vitamin D, a nutrient that plays a critical role in immune function, bone health, mood regulation, muscle function, and overall wellness.
I'm not suggesting that anyone bake in the sun for hours or ignore the risks of excessive UV exposure. Sunburns are never a good idea. But there is a healthy middle ground between burning your skin and avoiding natural sunlight altogether.
Our bodies were designed to interact with the sun. Moderate daily sun exposure helps stimulate vitamin D production and supports our natural circadian rhythms, which can improve sleep, energy levels, and overall well-being.
Sun Exposure Done Right
If you have fair skin and tend to burn easily, be smart about your sun exposure.
A few simple guidelines:
Aim for short periods of daily sunlight exposure without burning.
Wear a wide-brimmed hat if you'll be outside for extended periods.
Consider UV-protective clothing or a lightweight UV shirt during long outdoor activities.
Seek shade during peak afternoon hours if you're going to be outside all day.
Use sunscreen strategically rather than relying on it as your only line of defense.
Not All Sunscreens Are Created Equal
Several FDA-funded studies found that common chemical sunscreen ingredients such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, avobenzone, homosalate, and octisalate can be absorbed into the bloodstream at levels that warrant additional safety testing. Researchers emphasized that absorption does not automatically mean these ingredients are unsafe, but it does highlight the need for more research.
I prefer mineral-based sunscreens that rely on zinc oxide as the active ingredient. Mineral sunscreens sit on the skin's surface and are generally recognized as safe and effective by regulators.
My Favorite Clean Sunscreens for Summer
After years of testing products on myself and my family, these are the sunscreens I keep in my beach bag all summer long.
This is my go-to sunscreen when I'm active outdoors. It glides on smoothly, doesn't feel heavy, and holds up well during sweaty workouts, beach walks, and long days in the heat.
Blue Lizard has become one of the most trusted mineral sunscreen brands for families—and for good reason. It relies on zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for broad-spectrum protection, is widely recommended for sensitive skin, and is easy to find in most major retailers. It's especially popular among parents because it offers strong protection without many of the chemical ingredients people prefer to avoid.
Badger (for adults) (for kids)
Badger has been a family favorite for years. It provides excellent protection and stays on extremely well, even during active play. It can feel a bit thicker and stickier than other options, but that's part of why it works so well—especially for kids. I gave a link for my favorite above and what I use under my kids eyes and on the nose.
Another excellent choice for children and families. Babo products are gentle, easy to apply, and made with ingredients that many parents feel good about using on their kids' skin.
If you prefer cleaner ingredients and lighter-feeling products, Primally Pure is a great option. They offer beautifully crafted formulas with subtle natural scents and are especially nice for those with oilier skin.
The goal isn't to fear the sun. The goal is to respect it.
Get outside. Take a morning walk. Enjoy time at the beach. Let your body benefit from healthy sunlight exposure while being mindful about protecting your skin from burns.
A little sunshine each day can be one of the simplest wellness habits available to us. Just pair it with common sense, protective clothing when needed, and high-quality sunscreen products you trust.