What Ingredients to Avoid in Sunscreen (And Why)

While sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, not all formulas are created equal. Some ingredients can cause irritation, disrupt hormones, or even harm marine life when you take that post-beach swim.

Understanding what ingredients to avoid in sunscreen helps you make informed choices that protect both your skin and overall health. From controversial chemical filters to pore-clogging additives, we'll break down the ingredients that might be doing more harm than good—and what to look for instead.

Chemical UV Filters: The Controversial Protectors

Chemical sunscreen ingredients work by absorbing UV rays and converting them to heat. While effective, several have raised concerns among dermatologists and researchers.

Oxybenzone: The Hormone Disruptor

Oxybenzone is one of the most problematic ingredients found in many conventional sunscreens. This chemical filter penetrates deep into your skin and can be detected in blood samples just hours after application.

Studies have linked oxybenzone to hormone disruption, particularly affecting estrogen levels. For pregnant women, this is especially concerning as the ingredient can cross the placenta and potentially affect fetal development. Additionally, oxybenzone is a common cause of contact dermatitis, leading to rashes and skin irritation.

The ingredient has also been banned in Hawaii and several other locations due to its devastating impact on coral reefs.

Octinoxate: The Reef Killer

Octinoxate (also listed as octyl methoxycinnamate), like oxybenzone, can disrupt hormone function and has been shown to have estrogenic effects in laboratory studies.

This ingredient is particularly problematic for marine ecosystems. When you swim in the ocean wearing octinoxate-containing sunscreen, the chemical washes off and contributes to coral bleaching and death.

Avobenzone: The Unstable Protector

While avobenzone is generally considered safer than oxybenzone and octinoxate, it has its own set of issues. This ingredient becomes unstable when exposed to sunlight, breaking down within an hour of application and potentially forming harmful compounds.

Avobenzone can also cause stinging sensations around the eyes and may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Harmful Additives and Preservatives

Beyond UV filters, sunscreens often contain additional ingredients that can cause problems for your skin.

Parabens: The Preservative Problem

Parabens are preservatives used to extend shelf life, but they've been linked to hormone disruption and breast cancer concerns. Common parabens in sunscreens include methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben.

These chemicals can mimic estrogen in the body and have been found in breast tissue samples. While the research is still ongoing, many people prefer to avoid parabens as a precautionary measure.

Synthetic Fragrances: The Hidden Irritants

"Fragrance" on an ingredient list can represent dozens of undisclosed chemicals. These synthetic fragrances are among the top allergens and can trigger reactions ranging from mild irritation to severe contact dermatitis.

For those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema, fragranced sunscreens can worsen symptoms and cause unnecessary discomfort.

Alcohol: The Drying Agent

While not inherently dangerous, high concentrations of alcohol in sunscreen can be problematic for certain skin types. Alcohol can strip your skin's natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and even increased oil production as your skin tries to compensate.

This is particularly problematic for those with dry or sensitive skin, though it may be less of an issue for very oily skin types.

Physical Sunscreen Concerns

Even mineral sunscreens aren't without their potential issues.

Nano-Particles: The Size Debate

Some zinc oxide and titanium dioxide formulations use nanoparticles to create a more transparent finish. While these particles are generally considered safe for topical use, there are concerns about inhalation (particularly with spray formulas) and potential environmental impact.

The research is still evolving, but many prefer non-nano formulations to err on the side of caution.

Coated vs. Uncoated Minerals

Some mineral sunscreens use coated zinc oxide or titanium dioxide particles to improve texture and spreadability. While these coatings (like dimethicone or aluminum compounds) are generally safe, they can sometimes cause reactions in sensitive individuals.

Problematic Texturizers and Emulsifiers

Petrolatum and Mineral Oil

While not necessarily harmful, petrolatum and mineral oil can clog pores and feel heavy on the skin. These ingredients create a barrier that some people find uncomfortable, especially in hot weather.

For those prone to breakouts, these occlusive ingredients might contribute to clogged pores and acne.

Certain Silicones

Some silicones used in sunscreen formulations can build up on the skin over time, potentially leading to dullness and clogged pores. Cyclopentasiloxane and cyclohexasiloxane are examples of silicones that some people prefer to avoid.

What to Look for Instead

Mineral UV Filters

The safest options are non-nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These physical blockers sit on top of your skin and reflect UV rays rather than absorbing them. They're less likely to cause irritation and are considered reef-safe.

Clean Ingredient Lists

Look for sunscreens with simple, recognizable ingredients. Brands that focus on clean formulations often avoid the problematic ingredients mentioned above while still providing effective protection.

Broad-Spectrum Protection

Regardless of the ingredients, make sure your sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays with an SPF of at least 30 (preferably 50 SPF).

Reading Labels Like a Pro

When shopping for sunscreen, flip the bottle and scan the ingredient list. Active ingredients are listed first, followed by inactive ingredients in descending order by concentration.

Look for certifications like "reef-safe," "non-comedogenic," or "hypoallergenic," but remember that these terms aren't regulated, so you'll still need to check the actual ingredients.

Consider your specific needs: sensitive skin, acne-prone skin, or environmental concerns will all influence which ingredients to prioritize or avoid.

Making the Switch Safely

If you're currently using a sunscreen with problematic ingredients, don't just stop using it altogether. Sun protection is always better than no protection, even if your current formula isn't perfect.

Instead, use up your current bottle while researching better alternatives. When you do switch, introduce the new sunscreen gradually to ensure your skin tolerates it well.

Your Skin Deserves Better Protection

Understanding what ingredients to avoid in sunscreen empowers you to make choices that protect your skin without compromising your health. While the ingredient lists might seem daunting at first, focusing on simple, clean formulations with mineral UV filters will steer you toward safer options.

Remember, the best sunscreen is the one you'll actually use consistently. Start by identifying your priorities—whether that's avoiding hormone disruptors, preventing breakouts, or protecting coral reefs—and choose products that align with your values and skin needs.

Your skin will thank you for taking the time to choose wisely.