It’s already more than half-way through summer, and I’m just now sharing my top sunscreen pick for this year?? That’s what happens when one starts a non-profit while taking care of two little ones full-time. The new non-profit I co-founded is for a worthy cause, so when you have a minute, click over and check it out: Empowered by Light.
Of course I had intended to make my sunscreen recommendation in the early part of June… We have at least three more months of sun here in Northern California, so I suppose it’s better late than never.
Previously I had recommended Badger Sunscreen, SPF 30+. While it used a good amount of zinc oxide and boasted good ingredients overall with few potential irritants, I also found it left too much of a white cast–the “casper” factor as some call it.
I tried BurnOut Kids Physical Sunscreen, SPF 30+ back in May and fell in love immediately. It’s rated as one of the top sunscreens for 2011 by the Environmental Working Group, and rates a 1 on toxicity–their lowest level. It has an amazingly light “lotiony” texture and is very easy to spread. It leaves no white cast unless you put on multiple layers throughout the day. While it is not waterproof, it is water resistant. Another thing I like is the very light, almost imperceptible smell. And of course, it’s all natural and contains no nano-particles.
BurnOut also makes an Ocean Tested Physical Sunscreen, SPF 30+ that is “very water-resistant, ocean safe, ec0-sensitive, etc.” My husband’s been using this on his face and body. We can’t actually tell the different between the two products. The ingredients lists vary only slightly in the plant extracts and natural oils used, but since the price is the same, I think it’s just a matter of personal preference.
Note: I also tried thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen, SPF 30+. EWG rates it slightly higher than BurnOut in its UVA protection due to it’s slightly higher zinc oxide content (20% vs. BurnOut’s 18.6%). However, the formulation is heavier, thicker and felt very drying.
You can find BurnOut at most Whole Foods Markets as well as on-line (e.g., Amazon). The regular price is $17.99 for 3.4 oz, but I picked up several at $12.99 when Whole Foods had a sale.
Safe sunning!
Eat Well, Be Well, Live Well 