UV radiation from the sun can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. Sunscreen is a popular way to protect the skin from UV radiation. Sunscreens contain active ingredients that work by either absorbing or reflecting UV rays. The two active ingredients that are considered safe and effective by the FDA are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide
. Mineral sunscreens, also known as sunblock, contain these active ingredients and work by deflecting the sun's rays
. Chemical sunscreens contain active ingredients such as oxybenzone, avobenzone, octinoxate, and octisalate, which absorb UV rays and convert them into less harmful energy
. Some of these chemical ingredients, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, have been found to possess hormonal activity and may have negative effects on human health and the environment
. Other active ingredients, such as Mexoryl SX and aminobenzoic acid, are less commonly used in the US and have limited data on their safety and effectiveness
. It is important to read the labels and avoid sunscreens that contain harmful ingredients.
