It's hard to believe we're already midsummer and oh man is the heat on! 😅

Sunshine is a top source of Vitamin D3 needed for balanced hormones, a strong immune system, brain, bones and teeth, as well as has energizing and uplifting effect on our soul.

So how can we reap the benefits of these golden rays without worrying about free radical damage from UV radiation? Do we wear sunscreen or don't we? Sun protection is a subject in hot debate.. some even say sunscreen can do more harm than good! Which camp are you in?

For me, I vote for sunscreen. Especially with Swedish and Irish descent, my skin is very susceptible to sun damage. I grew up in Hawaii where the sun is beaming nearly every day, year-round.

In my opinion, the question is not whether UV protection is essential, but rather which ingredients are EFFECTIVE AND SAFE to use.

Topical sunscreens are generally classified as either chemical absorbers or physical blockers. Chemical absorbers do just that, they absorb the UV rays while physical blockers reflect UV rays. While chemical absorbers do not provide full-spectrum protection (both UVA & UVB) they must be paired with a physical blocker in order to be effective.

Sunscreen is generally considered safe and beneficial for protecting the skin from harmful UV rays. However, like any other product, sunscreen can have potential toxic effects, although they are relatively rare and typically occur in specific circumstances.

The problem lies in toxic chemical ingredients such as Oxybenzone, Octinoxate & Avobenzone which have been linked to allergic reactions, hormone disruption, rapid free radical damage and skin cancer! This obviously defeats the purpose of using a sunscreen. But physical sunscreens like Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide are naturally occurring minerals that provide full-spectrum protection. Zinc Oxide plays an important role in cell production and boosts the immune system while Titanium Dioxide is nonirritating, hypoallergenic and noncomedogenic.

Also, Oxybenzone, Octinoxate & Avobenzone have been found to have a negative environmental Impact and have been associated with coral reef damage when washed off into oceans and marine environments.

I opt for formulations that utilize physical blockers and internal support over the chemical versions. I love Hydro Peptides Solar Defense ! I don't know about you, but I say let the summer shenanigans roll.