Sunscreen Schishms Revisited

Extensive research has shown that a number of UV filters frequently used in commercial sunscreens (e.g. 4-MBC, octyl methoxycinnamate (OMC), octyl-dimethyl-PABA) possess endocrine-disrupter activity, that is, they interfere with our own hormone action and production.
Endocrine disrupters have been implicated in the development of a number of diseases including reproductive cancers, as well as the abnormal development of the male reproductive system.
In one study, the application of oxybezone, 4-MBC and oxtinoxate for one week led to a drop in testosterone and oestradiol levels in men. And even more worrying is that these chemicals have been found in breast milk at concentrations known to have oestrogenic effects. Moreover, a large proportion of active ingredients in sunscreens act as penetration enhancers to accelerate chemical absorption. Not good.
Recently many of you have probably heard of the attempt to nano-size particles of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to avoid the white paste residue. However, these ultra-fine particles may increase the risk of forming hydroxyl radicals ultimately damaging DNA.
We need to seek out safer alternatives, and look for sunscreens that resemble a food item rather than a complex toxic chemical equation. (Friends of the Earth have a paper available on-line. “Nanotechnology Project” well worth reading.)