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My Sunscreen Dilemma: Chemical vs. Mineral Protection Dr. Kimberly Shara
26
Apr
My Sunscreen Dilemma: From Baby Oil to Modern Options
By Dr. Kimberly K. Shara, DC, DICS
I am not entirely sure when I first started using sunscreen, but I vividly remember our "homemade blend" from the 1970s: baby oil mixed with iodine (Betadine).
At 14 years old, my life revolved around the pool—swim practice in the morning, back to the water in the afternoon. While our moms played cards, we slathered ourselves in that oily mixture, reapplying religiously to achieve a golden tan (or a painful sunburn, whichever came first). We even avoided hats to ensure the sun bleached our hair.
The Modern Sunscreen Paradox
Fast forward to 2026, and the landscape has shifted entirely. SPF 50+ is the standard recommendation for all ages. We now have SPF-infused makeup, clothing, hats, and sunglasses, all designed with one goal: to prevent skin cancer.
The concern is well-founded. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), skin cancer is now the fifth most common cancer in the U.S., with incidence rates increasing by 2–3% annually.
However, we face a new dilemma. While we strive to block UV rays, many popular sunscreens rely on synthetic chemical filters that can become reactive—and potentially harmful—when "baked" into the skin by the sun’s heat.
A Lesson in the Bahamas
Last summer, at age 67, I experienced the dark side of high-SPF chemical sunscreens firsthand. Preparing for a family cruise, I used a common SPF 50+ chemical-based sunscreen for my face.
By the second day of applying and reapplying the formula, my face began to itch. By the third day, the itching turned into severe swelling and redness. I was unrecognizable—my grandchildren said I looked "different," and even TSA agents questioned my identity when looking at my passport photo. I was miserable, experiencing a systemic inflammatory reaction to the very product meant to "protect" me.
The Path to Natural Recovery
Upon returning home, I sought to manage the inflammation and immediately turned to natural topical supports to heal the damaged tissue:
-
Standard Process Chlorophyll Complex Ointment™: This is my go-to recommendation for burns. It provided immediate cooling while nourishing the inflamed area. Within 24 hours, the damaged skin began to slough off, revealing healthy tissue underneath.
-
Fresh Aloe Vera: I layered fresh juice from my aloe plant between chlorophyll applications to accelerate healing and reduce swelling.
Lessons Learned: Chemical Filters vs. Mineral Barriers
Many conventional sunscreens rely on a cocktail of UV filters such as Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, and Octocrylene. These chemicals are designed to absorb UV rays, but in doing so, they can cause significant contact dermatitis or toxic reactions in sensitive individuals. Remember, your skin is your largest organ; it is a porous barrier that absorbs what you put on it.
I now recommend mineral-based sunscreens that utilize simple, clean ingredients:
-
Non-Nano Zinc Oxide: To reflect UV rays off the skin's surface without being absorbed into the bloodstream.
-
Organic Sunflower Oil & Beeswax: For nourishment and water resistance.
-
Golden Seaweed: A natural source of iodine that strengthens the skin barrier and reduces inflammation.
Nutritional Support for Sun-Ready Skin
To support skin health from the inside out, I utilize a specific supplement protocol to help the body process UV exposure more effectively:
-
Standard Process Dermatrophin PMG®: Contains skin-specific peptides for cellular health.
-
MediHerb Gotu Kola: Promotes healthy circulation and strong capillaries.
-
Standard Process Cataplex® D & F: Essential for skin protection and calcium utilization.
-
Standard Process Wheat Germ Oil: A potent source of natural Vitamin E. Pro tip: This can also be applied topically to sun-damaged skin.
Our 1970s baby oil concoction may have been half-right with the addition of iodine, but today we have much safer, non-toxic ways to enjoy the outdoors. Choose your protection based on ingredients, not just the number on the bottle—your skin will thank you.
Professional Consultation
Skin health is deeply connected to your internal environment. If you’ve struggled with skin sensitivities or are looking for a personalized protocol to support your health this summer, I invite you to schedule a consultation.
Ready to support your health from the inside out? Visit www.SharaChiropractic.com to book your individualized nutritional support session today.
References: National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institute of Health (NIH), Clinical Reference Guide.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
My Sunscreen Dilemma: From Baby Oil to Modern Options
By Dr. Kimberly K. Shara, DC, DICS
I am not entirely sure when I first started using sunscreen, but I vividly remember our "homemade blend" from the 1970s: baby oil mixed with iodine (Betadine).
At 14 years old, my life revolved around the pool—swim practice in the morning, back to the water in the afternoon. While our moms played cards, we slathered ourselves in that oily mixture, reapplying religiously to achieve a golden tan (or a painful sunburn, whichever came first). We even avoided hats to ensure the sun bleached our hair.
The Modern Sunscreen Paradox
Fast forward to 2026, and the landscape has shifted entirely. SPF 50+ is the standard recommendation for all ages. We now have SPF-infused makeup, clothing, hats, and sunglasses, all designed with one goal: to prevent skin cancer.
The concern is well-founded. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), skin cancer is now the fifth most common cancer in the U.S., with incidence rates increasing by 2–3% annually.
However, we face a new dilemma. While we strive to block UV rays, many popular sunscreens rely on synthetic chemical filters that can become reactive—and potentially harmful—when "baked" into the skin by the sun’s heat.
A Lesson in the Bahamas
Last summer, at age 67, I experienced the dark side of high-SPF chemical sunscreens firsthand. Preparing for a family cruise, I used a common SPF 50+ chemical-based sunscreen for my face.
By the second day of applying and reapplying the formula, my face began to itch. By the third day, the itching turned into severe swelling and redness. I was unrecognizable—my grandchildren said I looked "different," and even TSA agents questioned my identity when looking at my passport photo. I was miserable, experiencing a systemic inflammatory reaction to the very product meant to "protect" me.
The Path to Natural Recovery
Upon returning home, I sought to manage the inflammation and immediately turned to natural topical supports to heal the damaged tissue:
-
Standard Process Chlorophyll Complex Ointment™: This is my go-to recommendation for burns. It provided immediate cooling while nourishing the inflamed area. Within 24 hours, the damaged skin began to slough off, revealing healthy tissue underneath.
-
Fresh Aloe Vera: I layered fresh juice from my aloe plant between chlorophyll applications to accelerate healing and reduce swelling.
Lessons Learned: Chemical Filters vs. Mineral Barriers
Many conventional sunscreens rely on a cocktail of UV filters such as Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, and Octocrylene. These chemicals are designed to absorb UV rays, but in doing so, they can cause significant contact dermatitis or toxic reactions in sensitive individuals. Remember, your skin is your largest organ; it is a porous barrier that absorbs what you put on it.
I now recommend mineral-based sunscreens that utilize simple, clean ingredients:
-
Non-Nano Zinc Oxide: To reflect UV rays off the skin's surface without being absorbed into the bloodstream.
-
Organic Sunflower Oil & Beeswax: For nourishment and water resistance.
-
Golden Seaweed: A natural source of iodine that strengthens the skin barrier and reduces inflammation.
Nutritional Support for Sun-Ready Skin
To support skin health from the inside out, I utilize a specific supplement protocol to help the body process UV exposure more effectively:
-
Standard Process Dermatrophin PMG®: Contains skin-specific peptides for cellular health.
-
MediHerb Gotu Kola: Promotes healthy circulation and strong capillaries.
-
Standard Process Cataplex® D & F: Essential for skin protection and calcium utilization.
-
Standard Process Wheat Germ Oil: A potent source of natural Vitamin E. Pro tip: This can also be applied topically to sun-damaged skin.
Our 1970s baby oil concoction may have been half-right with the addition of iodine, but today we have much safer, non-toxic ways to enjoy the outdoors. Choose your protection based on ingredients, not just the number on the bottle—your skin will thank you.
Professional Consultation
Skin health is deeply connected to your internal environment. If you’ve struggled with skin sensitivities or are looking for a personalized protocol to support your health this summer, I invite you to schedule a consultation.
Ready to support your health from the inside out? Visit www.SharaChiropractic.com to book your individualized nutritional support session today.
References: National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institute of Health (NIH), Clinical Reference Guide.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
