Vegas Sunscreen: Desert Heat Hiding Toxin Burn?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe desert sun in Las Vegas isn’t just hot; it’s a relentless UV radiation cannon. You can feel it baking into your skin within minutes. Finding a sunscreen that can withstand that onslaught without turning you into a walking chemical experiment is a real challenge. Most tourists and even locals grab whatever’s on the shelf at Walgreens, but are those sunscreens really protecting them, or are they just slathering on a cocktail of potentially harmful chemicals? Let’s dive into the sunscreens readily available in Las Vegas and see how they stack up against the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) guidelines, focusing on both effectiveness and safety.
First, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: oxybenzone. This chemical, commonly found in many popular sunscreens, is a known endocrine disruptor and has been linked to coral reef damage. It’s a big no-no, especially when safer alternatives exist. You’ll find it lurking in many big-name brands like Coppertone and Banana Boat, often touted for their high SPF.
So, I went undercover (well, not really, I just went to a few drugstores) and checked the ingredient lists of some popular sunscreens sold in Las Vegas. Here’s what I found:
Coppertone Ultra Guard SPF 70: Contains oxybenzone. Strike one. It also has a cocktail of other chemicals that aren’t ideal.
Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 50: Oxybenzone again! Plus, it’s often greasy and leaves a white cast, which isn’t ideal when you’re trying to look your best poolside at the Cosmopolitan.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF 55: While it doesn’t contain oxybenzone, it relies heavily on other chemical filters like homosalate and avobenzone, which have their own potential concerns according to the EWG.
These are just a few examples, but the pattern is clear: many readily available sunscreens prioritize broad-spectrum protection at the expense of potentially harmful ingredients. But don’t despair, sun-seekers! Safer alternatives do exist, and they’re becoming increasingly accessible.
The key is to look for sunscreens that use mineral-based active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These minerals create a physical barrier against the sun’s rays, rather than being absorbed into the skin like chemical filters. They are generally considered safer and more environmentally friendly.
Here are a few brands that are readily available in Las Vegas (you can find them at stores like Whole Foods, Target, and even some of the larger drugstores) and meet the EWG’s criteria for safety:
Thinkbaby/Thinksport: Excellent broad-spectrum protection with zinc oxide as the active ingredient. They’re also water-resistant, which is crucial for those pool days.
Badger Balm: Another great option with zinc oxide. They offer a range of formulations, including tinted sunscreens, which can help avoid the dreaded white cast.
Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen: While some Blue Lizard formulations contain chemical filters, they also offer mineral-based options that are worth checking out. Make sure to read the label carefully!
Now, let’s talk about interpreting those sunscreen labels. In Las Vegas, with its intense UV index, understanding the numbers is crucial.
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
SPF (Sun Protection Factor): This measures the sunscreen’s ability to block UVB rays, which are responsible for sunburn. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%. Higher SPFs offer marginally better protection, but they can also give a false sense of security, leading people to apply less sunscreen or reapply less frequently.
Broad Spectrum: This indicates that the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays contribute to skin aging and can also increase the risk of skin cancer. Make sure your sunscreen says “broad spectrum.”
Active Ingredients: This is where you need to pay close attention. Look for zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone, octinoxate, and homosalate if you’re concerned about potential health risks.
Water Resistance: Sunscreens are labeled as water-resistant for either 40 or 80 minutes. This means they’ll maintain their SPF for that amount of time while swimming or sweating. Reapplication is key, especially after toweling off.
Common Mistakes and Pitfalls:
Not applying enough sunscreen: Most people only apply 25-50% of the recommended amount. You should use about one ounce (a shot glass full) to cover your entire body.
Not reapplying frequently enough: Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.
Relying solely on sunscreen: Sunscreen is just one part of sun protection. Wear protective clothing, seek shade during peak sun hours (10 AM to 4 PM), and wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
Ignoring expiration dates: Sunscreen can lose its effectiveness over time. Check the expiration date and discard any sunscreen that’s past its prime.
Thinking higher SPF means you can stay in the sun longer: SPF primarily measures protection against UVB rays. Reapplication is still crucial, regardless of the SPF.
Real-World Scenario:
Imagine you’re spending a day at the pool at the Mandalay Bay. You apply a generous layer of Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 50 before heading out. You think you’re protected, but you’re actually exposing yourself to oxybenzone and potentially not applying enough sunscreen to begin with. After a couple of hours of swimming and lounging, you haven’t reapplied. You’re now at risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
A Better Approach:
Before heading to the pool, apply a mineral-based sunscreen like Thinkbaby SPF 50. Reapply every two hours, or after swimming. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Seek shade during the hottest part of the day. This approach provides safer and more effective sun protection.
Living in or visiting Las Vegas means respecting the power of the sun. Choosing the right sunscreen and using it correctly is essential for protecting your skin and enjoying your time in the desert. Don’t just grab the first bottle you see on the shelf. Take the time to read the label, understand the ingredients, and choose a sunscreen that’s both effective and safe. Your skin will thank you for it.