Sun protection is a routine part of good health, but during pregnancy, the choice of sunscreen requires extra consideration. Hormonal changes can increase skin sensitivity and the risk of hyperpigmentation, known as melasma, making sun protection more important than ever. The primary concern with certain sunscreens is the potential for their active chemical filters to be absorbed through the skin and enter the body’s systemic circulation. This systemic absorption is what raises questions about the safety of these chemicals for the developing fetus. Navigating the ingredients list is necessary to ensure effective sun protection during this period.
The Primary Chemical Ingredients of Concern
The sunscreens that require caution during pregnancy are the chemical or organic-filter types. These work by absorbing UV rays and converting them into heat, and are designed to penetrate the skin slightly, leading to measurable amounts in the bloodstream. The ingredient most widely flagged for avoidance is Oxybenzone, also listed as Benzophenone-3, which is a common UV-absorbing compound.
Several other chemical filters are also advised against due to their absorption properties. These include Octinoxate (Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate), Homosalate, Octisalate, Avobenzone, and Octocrylene. When examining a product label, these names will appear under the “Active Ingredients” section of the sunscreen bottle.
Understanding the Safety Risks
The reason these chemical filters raise concerns is their ability to undergo systemic absorption. Studies have confirmed that following a single full-body application, the plasma levels of these six common chemical filters can exceed the safety threshold established by the FDA. Trace amounts of these chemicals have been detected in various bodily fluids, including amniotic fluid, breast milk, and even fetal blood.
This absorption is problematic because many of these chemicals are classified as Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs). EDCs are substances that can interfere with the body’s natural endocrine system, the network of glands that produce hormones. They can mimic, block, or alter the synthesis and metabolism of hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone.
The concern during pregnancy is that fetal development is highly dependent on a precise balance of maternal and fetal hormones. Interference from EDCs, particularly during sensitive developmental windows, could potentially affect the development of the reproductive and nervous systems. Oxybenzone, for example, has been shown in some studies to exhibit weak estrogenic and anti-androgenic effects, leading to its strong recommendation for avoidance during pregnancy.
Safe Alternatives for Sun Protection
The preferred alternative to chemical sunscreens during pregnancy is mineral sunscreen, often called physical blockers. These formulas rely on two primary active ingredients that are considered safe and effective by regulatory bodies: Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide. These ingredients function by creating a physical barrier on the skin’s surface that reflects and scatters UV radiation away from the body.
Because they are not absorbed into the deeper layers of the skin, mineral sunscreens avoid the systemic circulation concerns associated with chemical filters. Zinc oxide, in particular, is often noted for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it a soothing choice for skin that may be more sensitive during pregnancy. Both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are recognized as safe for use by all people, including pregnant individuals.
A common drawback with mineral formulas is the potential for a visible white cast on the skin, which occurs when the minerals are not finely milled. Manufacturers have addressed this by using micronized or non-nano formulations, which blend more easily into the skin while still remaining on the surface. Tinted mineral sunscreens are another option that helps to offset the white residue and offers the added benefit of protecting against high-energy visible light, which can contribute to pigmentation issues like melasma.
Practical Guide to Selecting Sunscreens
When purchasing sunscreen, check the “Active Ingredients” list on the label to determine if a product is safe. You should look for only Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide to be listed, and ensure that the list does not contain any of the chemical filters such as Oxybenzone or Octinoxate. A broad-spectrum formula with a minimum Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 should be selected to guard against both UVA and UVB rays.
Sun protection involves multiple layers of defense. Wide-brimmed hats and tightly woven, sun-safe clothing provide excellent physical protection that does not rely on any chemicals. Seeking shade, especially during the peak sun hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., significantly reduces exposure.
When applying mineral sunscreen, use an adequate amount and reapply at least every two hours, or immediately after swimming or heavy sweating. While mineral sunscreens are the preferred option, spray formulations should be avoided when possible to eliminate the risk of inhaling the active ingredients.