Why Safe Sunscreen and Insect Repellent Matter

As spring brings warmer days and longer daylight hours, sunscreen becomes once again a necessity. Additionally, springtime brings the emergence of pesky biting insects requiring repellent. Not all sunscreens and insect repellents are created equally in terms of safety and effectiveness.

Why Safe Sunscreen Matters

Most sunscreens are toxic. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has identified the following problems with sunscreens. Many contain chemical filters to protect skin from the sun, yet these chemicals mimic hormones. One study found a common sunscreen chemical ingredient lowered testosterone levels. Furthermore, they often are a source of skin allergies. These chemical ingredients are absorbed into your skin straight into the bloodstream. Testing has found their presence in human urine, blood, and breastmilk.((https://www.ewg.org/sunscreen/report/the-trouble-with-sunscreen-chemicals/#.WrsFm7bMwWp))

Although mineral sunscreens are natural, they may contain nanoparticles. According to EWG, this is not a huge cause for concern when it comes to sunscreens as it may be with other cosmetic products.

A real-world study tested penetration of zinc oxide particles of 19 and 110 nanometers on human volunteers who applied sunscreens twice daily for five days (Gulson 2010). Researchers found that less than 0.01 percent of either form of zinc entered the bloodstream. The study could not determine if the zinc in the bloodstream was insoluble nanoparticles, therefore the European regulators concluded it was most likely zinc ions, which would not pose any health risk (SCCS 2012).((https://www.ewg.org/sunscreen/report/nanoparticles-in-sunscreen/#.WrsE8LbMwWo))

One way to know you are getting truly safe sunscreen and bug repellent for your family is to choose only brands that are EWG Verified.

What Does EWG Verified Mean for Safe Sunscreen?

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) tests thousands of products. Their guidelines and databases have extensive research and information about natural and chemical ingredients toxicity and hazards to human health. EWG Verified is a label that makes it easy for consumers to buy non-toxic products, like safe sunscreen and insect repellent without doing the research themselves.

We started EWG VERIFIED™ to drive companies to create healthier, safer products. We know there are companies that are concerned about rising cancer rates. Or about fertility challenges becoming increasingly common. Or about allergies impacting more of our young ones.

EWG VERIFIED™ recognizes products that meet EWG’s strictest standards for your health. This means none of EWG’s chemicals of concern. This means full transparency. This means a mark you can trust. It means EWG approved.

Deter Outdoor Skin Protection is Safe for the Environment and Your Family

We were sent two Deter Outdoor Skin Protection products to try: SPF 30 Natural Mineral Sunscreen and 6 Hour Natural Insect Repellent.

Deter Natural Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

This natural sunscreen is EWG Verified, so you know you can trust it. It offers SPF 30 broad spectrum protection.

SPF 30 Broad Spectrum UV Protection
Made from 2 Most Recommended Sunscreen Ingredients by Dermatologists
Helps Fight Free Radicals and Protect the Skin
100% Hypoallergenic and Non-Irritating
Safe for All Skin Types and Children
Reef Safe and Biodegradable

Not only does this safe sunscreen protect you from sunburns, carrot and green tea extracts fight free radicals preventing sun damage caused wrinkles and skin discoloration. Furthermore, it is reef-safe. Your sun protection will not damage the precious ocean reefs currently under stress from climate change, garbage, and toxic chemicals in our oceans.

What I appreciate most about this product is there is no odor or scent, and it goes on clear! It does not leave you looking like a ghost, like many other mineral-based sunscreens. I hate the residue and discoloration many natural sunscreens leave behind. Deter Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 is awesome! I can’t wait to take it backpacking and to the beach this summer.

Why Safe Insect Repellent Matters

The most common ingredient in insect repellents is DEET. DEET is considered “generally safe” although studies have found the following effects:

Brain cell death
Skin Rashes
Nausea
Headaches
Dizziness
Lack of concentration
Numb lips ((https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/is-it-true-that-the-deet/))
Muscle coordination
Learning problems
Memory dysfunction((http://www.environmentalhealth.ca/spring03hazards.html))

In the US, repellents can contain up to 99% DEET.((https://www.epa.gov/insect-repellents/deet)) In Canada, insect repellents may contain up to 30% DEET. In fact, the government of Nova Scotia warns:

But DEET based repellents aren’t just hazardous to mosquitoes. From a human health point of view, when mosquito bites are more of a nuisance than a serious health threat, choosing a botanical based repellent makes more sense.

DEET is a registered pesticide. DEET is short for N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide (also known as N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide). It is a member of the toluene chemical family. Toluene is an organic solvent used in rubber and plastic cements and paint removers. DEET is absorbed through the skin and passes into the blood. The Medical Sciences Bulletin, published by Pharmaceutical Information Associates Ltd. reports, “Up to 56% of DEET applied topically penetrates intact human skin and 17% is absorbed into the bloodstream.” Blood concentrations of about 3 mg per litre have been reported several hours after DEET repellent was applied to skin in the prescribed fashion. DEET is also absorbed by the gut.((http://www.environmentalhealth.ca/spring03hazards.html))

Deter Insect Repellent

Deter Insect Repellent lasts for six hours without toxic DEET! It is clinically proven to be more effective than DEET!

Deter Natural Insect Repellent with convenient Rollerball Applicator provides you with a clinically proven safe and effective alternative to repellents made with harsh chemicals like DEET.

Laboratory tests conducted by a professional Ph.D. Entomologist confirm that Deter is effective in repelling mosquitoes for more than 6 hours. Compared with products containing up to 25% DEET and other harsh chemicals, Deter Natural Insect Repellent has a lower average landing rate—meaning, fewer bites (see graph)!

Deter isn’t just more effective, it’s also safer. In a clinical study overseen by a Board Certified Dermatologist, Deter Natural Biting Insect Repellent was certified safe for all skin types.

The rollerball applicator is super easy to use, especially on children, plus you don’t have to worry about inhaling spray. It has a lovely spearmint smell and goes on clear. There is no sticky residue after using it. I love that when I read the ingredients list, I know what everything is and feel safe putting it on my skin.

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS: Soybean Oil, Spearmint Oil, Geraniol, Geranium Oil

OTHER INGREDIENTS: Coconut Oil, Celery Seed Oil, Vanillin, Tocopherol (Vitamin E) Complies with EPA regulations under FIFRA 40 CFR, Sec. 152.25 (g) (1), (2), (3) minimum risk pesticide.

Deter outdoor products are safe, effective, and easy to use. They are high-quality products that are non-toxic and natural. They work to protect both your family and the environment. Deter helps us enjoy the outdoors for long hours surrounded by the natural world we love. Get outside this spring and enjoy the warmer temperatures and longer days.

Image: 91249144gary / Pixabay

Why Safe Sunscreen Matters

What Does EWG Verified Mean for Safe Sunscreen?

Deter Outdoor Skin Protection is Safe for the Environment and Your Family

Why Safe Insect Repellent Matters

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