Sun block is used to prevent sunburns and block the harmful effects on the skin from ultraviolet, or UV rays. While sun block should be protecting the skin, certain ingredients contain chemicals with known toxins that have been shown to harm humans or the environment in some way. These ingredients are considered to be dangerous and should be avoided if possible.
Zinc Oxide
Most mainstream brands of sun block ointment include the active ingredient zinc oxide. Zinc oxide's antibacterial properties help to prevent sunburns and block UV rays from penetrating the skin. However, zinc oxide with nanoparticles is potentially dangerous; its toxicity has been shown to harm the immune and reproductive systems, according to research conducted by the Environmental Working Group, which conducted extensive reviews of the literature for associations between the ingredient and toxic effects.
Oxybenzone
Oxybenzone is another potentially dangerous ingredient in sun block products that should be avoided. It received a 9 out of 10 hazard rating from Environmental Working Group, which is defined it as a very high-hazard product. Research has found that it can have photoallergenic effects, which means that it can cause eczema, dermatitis and a skin rash. It may also cause changes to the skin on a biological or cellular level, an effect that could lead to heart disease, according to research. Studies also show possible toxicity to the brain, and nervous and organ systems, and also to wildlife and the environment. This product can appear under a variety of names; in addition to oxybenzone, it may be labeled as methanone, 2-hydroxy-4-methoxyphenyl, 2-hydroxy-4-methoxy-benzophenone, 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone, benzophenone-3 or BP-3.
DMDM Hydantoin
Yet another dangerous ingredient with found in sun block is DMDM Hydantoin. This ominous preservative releases formaldehyde, a toxic compound that prevents the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that could cause the skin care product to spoil. While formaldehyde serves its useful purpose as a preservative, its proven toxicity is known to be harmful to the skin and the environment, according to the National Institutes of Health. In addition, the Environmental Working Group gave this ingredient a 7 out of 10 hazard rating score.
