According to the Environmental Working Group, there are a few ingredients that are known to be hormone disruptors or carcinogens.
1
Recently, Johnson & Johnson recalled 5 of their aerosol sunscreens because it contained trace amounts of benzene which is a known carcinogen.
2
Oxybenzone is a hormone disruptor and can interrupt sexual function and reproduction. Hawaii has banned all sunscreens that contain oxybenzone because it causes damage to the coral reefs.
3
Companies are not obligated to share the ingredients that make up "fragrance" so it is best to avoid it as it could include harmful chemicals.
If you see these ingredients on the label, know that it is widely considered safe and effective protection from the sun.
1
Titanium dioxide is a mineral used in sunscreen and cosmetics to thicken, whiten, and lubricate while offering protection.
2
Zinc oxide is a mineral that effectively blocks a certain amount of ultra violet (UV) light waves.