My Next Obsession--Sunscreen

As the daughter of a seasoned beekeeper and a self-proclaimed “treehugger,” I’ve always been environmentally conscious and aware of nature's health benefits. However, after having my first child, I was shocked to discover that even products claiming to be non-toxic or safer for you were still full of harmful chemicals—hormone disruptors, carcinogens, lead, and more. From diapers and wipes to shampoos, lotions, diaper creams, sunscreen, detergent, fragrances, and food, it was everywhere. This realization prompted me to make some big changes. Through self-learning and a small investment in supplies, I found I could easily make many of these products myself. Later, to recoup some of our costs, we started a small side hustle, Our Four Acre Farm. If you’re interested, you absolutely can buy some of the products I make to try for yourself, or I’d be more than happy to show you how to make them yourself. 

This brings me to the next thing in the house I’ve replaced- sunscreen. I’d never thought about sunscreen being harmful-it’s supposed to protect us. But Karleigh brought it up one day and I started doing some digging. Here’s what I found: 

Fertility Issues in Men and Women

Certain chemicals in conventional sunscreens, like oxybenzone, octinoxate, and retinyl palmitate, have been linked to hormonal disruption. This disruption can mess with the body’s natural hormone balance and, over time, potentially affect fertility.

1. Oxybenzone: This chemical is one of the most common UV filters used in sunscreens, but it has been shown to be absorbed through the skin and enter the bloodstream. Oxybenzone mimics estrogen, which can mess with hormone levels. For women, this could affect ovarian function, and for men, it has been linked to lower sperm quality. Continuous exposure, especially in large amounts, could contribute to fertility issues over time.

2. Octinoxate: Also known as ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, octinoxate is another chemical sunscreen agent that has been linked to endocrine disruption. It can mimic estrogen in the body, potentially interfering with reproductive organs in both men and women. In women, exposure could affect the menstrual cycle or interfere with pregnancy. For men, it can lead to low sperm count and poor sperm motility, which are both issues when trying to conceive.

3. Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A): While retinyl palmitate is often touted for its anti-aging benefits, research has raised concerns about its use in sunscreens. When exposed to UV rays, retinyl palmitate can break down into free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage cells and tissues. For reproductive health, this may cause DNA damage in eggs and sperm, which can affect fertility and the development of a healthy pregnancy.

While these chemicals may be safe in small doses, chronic exposure—especially with regular sunscreen application—can have a cumulative effect, disrupting hormone levels and potentially leading to long-term fertility problems.

Children

Children’s skin is thinner and more sensitive than adults, making them more vulnerable to the absorption of chemicals through the skin. Infants and toddlers are especially at risk because their developing bodies can react differently to toxins and hormone disruptors.

Some of the most concerning risks for kids include:

1. Hormonal Disruption: As with adults, chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate can interfere with the hormone systems of children, which are still developing. Exposure to these chemicals can lead to early puberty, fertility issues, and other long-term health problems as they grow.

2. Skin Irritation and Allergies: Kids often have more sensitive skin, which makes them more likely to experience irritation, rashes, or allergic reactions from the synthetic chemicals and fragrances in traditional sunscreens. Some kids can even develop chronic skin issues after frequent exposure.

3. Developmental and Behavioral Concerns: Research has also raised concerns that hormone disruptors, like those found in chemical sunscreens, could contribute to neurodevelopmental issues in children, including learning disabilities, ADHD, and other behavioral problems. Early exposure to these chemicals has the potential to impact their long-term health and cognitive development.

Environmental Harm

Beyond fertility and skin irritation, the chemicals in traditional sunscreens have been linked to a variety of other health concerns:

• Environmental Harm: Many of the chemicals in conventional sunscreens, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, have been shown to damage coral reefs and marine life. These chemicals wash off in the ocean when you swim, causing serious harm to ocean ecosystems. 

Cancer

• Cancer Risk: While sunscreen is meant to protect against skin cancer, some chemical filters in traditional sunscreens (like retinyl palmitate) can actually increase the risk of skin cancer when exposed to sunlight. Studies have shown that retinyl palmitate, when exposed to UV rays, can break down into free radicals that cause cellular damage and DNA mutations, which can lead to skin cancer.

Allergic Reactions

• Allergic Reactions and Sensitivity: Chemical sunscreens are also known for causing allergic reactions and skin sensitivities in some people. These reactions can include redness, swelling, and even blistering in more severe cases. It’s especially concerning for kids who have more delicate skin.

Neurodevelopment

1. Hormonal Disruption and Brain Development

The chemicals in chemical sunscreens, particularly oxybenzone and octinoxate, can mimic natural hormones like estrogen in the body. This can cause hormonal imbalances that affect the developing brain, particularly in young children whose neurological systems are still growing and forming.

• Estrogen mimickers can influence brain structure and behavioral development, potentially leading to issues like learning disabilities, hyperactivity, and even difficulties with memory. Since the brain is still developing during childhood, exposure to hormone-disrupting chemicals at this stage can have long-term consequences on cognitive function.

2. Potential Link to Autism and ADHD

Studies suggest that endocrine disruptors like those found in some sunscreens may be linked to an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders like autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). While more research is needed to fully understand the connection, there’s growing concern that exposure to chemicals that interfere with the endocrine system could influence brain development in a way that increases the risk for these conditions.

• For example, some studies have found that chemical sunscreen exposure during pregnancy or early childhood could lead to changes in the way a child’s brain develops, affecting attention, focus, and impulse control, which are key features of ADHD.

• There is also emerging research that links prenatal exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals with an increased likelihood of autism, particularly with respect to early brain development.

3. Impact on the Developing Nervous System

The early years of life are critical for brain development. During this time, a child’s nervous system is incredibly sensitive to toxins. Oxybenzone and other chemical sunscreen ingredients can pass through the skin into the bloodstream and make their way to the brain, where they may cause disruptions in neurotransmitter function—the chemicals that help the brain send signals and communicate.

• Disrupting these processes can impact everything from cognitive abilities to emotional regulation, social skills, and learning capacity. Children exposed to these chemicals early in life may show developmental delays or behavioral changes as they grow older.

4. Potential Long-Term Behavioral and Cognitive Effects

Even after children have grown out of their formative years, the long-term effects of chemical exposure can still be seen in their learning abilities, memory, and social behavior. Some research suggests that chronic exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals may affect IQ and increase the likelihood of learning delays or socialization issues.

Now, I’m not saying that chemicals in sunscreen cause all of these issues, but when combined with all the other things we use on a daily basis and the foods we eat, there has to be some connection between that and the rise of cancer rates, fertility problems (which is way more widespread than you’d think), ADHD, and poor health in general. 

I’m not an advocate for being paranoid and cancelling everything out, but moderation and cutting out the things we can makes sense. Less chemical exposure is better. 

Next, I did a deep dive into popular sunscreen brands to see what chemicals they had. Even some that claim to be non-toxic weren’t as advertised. 

The Dangers in Popular Sunscreens (Yes, Even the "Non-Toxic" Ones)

Even the "safer" sunscreens at the store—think Seibella, Coppertone, and Equate—are often full of chemicals you don’t want to be putting on your skin, especially on your little ones. And don’t let the word "natural" fool you. Some of the most popular brands contain stuff that could seriously mess with your body.

Here’s a rundown of what you might be putting on your skin with some of these brands:

• Oxybenzone: You’ve probably seen this one in Coppertone and Equate. It’s a hormone disruptor that gets absorbed through your skin and can mess with your endocrine system. Yikes. It’s linked to skin irritation, reproductive problems, and more. Definitely not something I want to rub all over my kid!

• Octinoxate: This one’s in brands like Seibella and Coppertone too. It’s a known endocrine disruptor and irritant. Not only is it bad for us, but it’s also toxic to coral reefs—so, you’re literally damaging the planet while trying to protect your skin. Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A): Found in sunscreens like Equate and Coppertone, this one’s a biggie. It sounds all fancy and anti-aging, but here’s the kicker: when it’s exposed to sunlight, it can actually speed up skin cancer formation. So instead of protecting your skin, it could be doing the opposite.

• Homosalate: Used in sunscreens like Seibella, it’s another hormone disruptor and skin irritant. And it’s also toxic to the environment, so it’s not just harmful to you—it’s harmful to the planet too.

• Fragrance (Parfum): Even some "natural" sunscreens sneak in synthetic fragrances. You’ll find this in Equate and Seibella. But here’s the thing: they often contain phthalates, which are hormone disruptors and can trigger all sorts of skin reactions. If something smells too good to be true, it probably is.

• Propylene Glycol: Found in Coppertone and Equate, this one is known to irritate the skin and even damage the skin's protective barrier, making it easier for other harmful chemicals to be absorbed into your bloodstream. Not what I want on my family!

After all this, I decided sunscreen was going to be the next thing I replaced with my family. Now that summer is here, we will all be outside a lot and unlike the previous couple of years of Bo’s life, I (Karleigh, rather) won’t be drenching him every 15 minutes in store bought sunscreen. This is why I feel so good about using it on myself and my kids.

I knew I needed something that would protect, nourish, and heal the skin without any harmful chemicals. So, I made sure to use only the best, most natural ingredients:

• Tallow: This is basically the best thing for your skin. It’s full of vitamins A, D, E, and K, which are amazing for restoring and protecting your skin. It’s not greasy and gives the sunscreen a smooth, easy-to-apply texture.

• Beeswax: The beeswax we use is locally sourced from our very own hives here on the farm. It helps lock in moisture and create a natural barrier to protect against the sun. Plus, it’s super soothing and has anti-inflammatory properties. I’m pretty proud of that!

  

  
  

• Coconut Oil: This one’s great for moisturizing and has natural UV protection. It’s gentle enough for sensitive skin, so I feel comfortable using it on my kids.

• Sweet Almond Oil: Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, it helps soften the skin and reduce any sun damage. It’s perfect for anyone with sensitive or irritated skin.

• Zinc Oxide: This is the hero of the sunscreen! It’s a natural mineral blocker that provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. No chemicals, just pure protection.

• Arrowroot Powder: This helps give the sunscreen a smooth, silky texture, absorbs excess moisture, and keeps it from feeling greasy. It even works as a makeup primer—so, it's a two-for-one product!

Together, these ingredients give you all the protection you need without any of the harsh chemicals. Our sunscreen has an SPF of 30, which is perfect for everyday use as long as you reapply as you are supposed to anyway. 

Not only that, but because of the tallow and other oils, it doubles as a makeup primer. And as we are all busy, this helps save me time instead of having to apply two things, I just use one now. 

How You Can Get Your Hands on Our Four Acre Farm Sunscreen

If you’re interested in making your own sunscreen at home, I’d be happy to share my recipe with you! There’s nothing I’d love more than to help someone else be safer and more self-sufficient.

But if you’d rather skip the DIY and grab a ready-made sunscreen, you can purchase it from me in 2 oz metal tins for just $10. If you look at similar natural sunscreens on Etsy, you’ll see where they go for $15 or more for the same size. I am not trying to quit my day job on this, just trying to recoup some of my costs and help others in the process. 

Contact us directly on social media to order!