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Sunscreens

Many sunscreens contain chemicals that can mimic estrogen in the body, disrupt the endocrine system, and play a significant role in breast cancer development. However, safer sunscreens are available if you know what to look for.

Science

Ultraviolet filters, or UV filters, are chemicals that can screen out UV-A and UV-B rays from the sun. Some UV filters are chemicals of concern such as octinoxate, octyl methoxycinnamate, benzophenone, oxybenzone, PABA, and padimate O. Safer alternative sunscreens are those that use sun-blocking compounds derived from minerals, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, in a non-inhalable form.

Campaign

We think you shouldn’t have to choose between skin cancer and breast cancer. The CSC-cosponsored Toxic Free Beauty Act, part of the Safer Beauty Bill Package in U.S. Congress, would ban two harmful parabens, along with the other worst-of-the-worst toxic chemicals found in personal care products like sunscreens. Take action to make beauty and personal care products safer for all!

Take Action >

Products of Concern

Skin lighteners
Facial and skin cleansers
Facial moisturizers

Tips

Read Labels: Check ingredient labels to avoid the above chemicals of concern found in body care products.
Simplify: Choose products with simpler ingredient lists and fewer synthetic chemicals. Select products that fully disclose their fragrance ingredients by skipping products with “fragrance” on the label.
Minimalist: Using fewer products is the easiest and cheapest way to reduce your risk by minimizing your exposure to harmful chemicals in cosmetics.
Use an App: Get Clearya or Think Dirty to find out whether products are toxic as you shop.
Look Beyond: Since the beauty industry is largely unregulated, there are no legal standards for personal care products that are labeled “clean,” “pure,” “natural,” or “organic.” Look beyond false marketing claims by reading ingredient labels.
DIY: Many products are easy and fun to make yourself. Plus, you can customize your recipes to match your specific beauty concerns and favorites. Make your own moisturizer, sugar or salt scrub, body oil, and more using simple, organic ingredients.