How to Find Paraben-Free Sunscreen

Parabens are chemicals used in body care products and cosmetics for preservative and antimicrobial benefits and are deemed safe by the FDA. However, after a controversial study, links to parabens and cancer have caused concern. Some people are also allergic to parabens and react with rashes and dermatitis. Parabens are widely used in sunscreens, but there are now a number of paraben-free alternatives on the market to choose from. Read on to learn how to fin paraben-free sunscreen.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Read the label of your current sunscreen. Words like ethylparaben, propylparaben and butylparaben mean that the product contains parabens. Check online or with the FDA for other common paraben names.
2. Surf the web. Search for paraben-free sunscreen alternatives. Usually the product will say paraben-free in the description or on the label itself. Find a few paraben-free sunscreens that interest you and look for product reviews online from other customers. Consider contacting the manufacturer and requesting free samples of the sunscreens before you buy.
3. Go to your local health food store. You will most likely find a great selection of paraben-free products so that you can pick the best one for your needs. Or, go to your local retailer, drugstore or department store with a list of commonly used parabens and carefully read each label until you find one that is paraben-free.
4. Choose a paraben-free sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 and look for facial sunscreens and lip sunscreen as well. If the sunscreen still bothers your skin, try another paraben-free product until you find the one that is right for your skin.