by Tahmina Sattar

Created on: July 25, 2009

Choosing the least toxic sunscreen and insect repellents is extremely important as many chemical ingredients in these products have been found to be harmful to humans. According to the Guide to less toxic ingredients (www.lesstoxicguide.ca) several studies of common ingredients in sunscreens have been linked to hormone disrupting activity as well as interfering with vitamin D production by our skin. Insect repellents which have been used effectively usually contain DEET- a powerful chemical that absorbs quickly into the skin and has been known to cause rash, muscle spasms and seizures amongst other reactions. This list of least toxic sunscreens and insect repellents can help you to make an important consumer choice when it's time to go out and enjoy the sun.

Sunscreens. When choosing non toxic sunscreens it is better to use mineral based sunscreens with active ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These ingredients work to block off the sun's rays and can be more effective than some chemical based sunscreens.

*Aubreys Organics Natural Sun SPF25 Green Tea Protective Sunscreen:- This sunscreen is especially formulated for sensitive skin and has the active ingredient titanium dioxide and padimate O.

*Badger Sunscreen SPF30:- This product has been chosen by the Environmental Working Party (EWP) to be the least toxic and effective sunscreen. This sunscreen contains the active ingredient zinc oxide.

*Lavera Sunscreen SPF40:- This sunscreen is number 4 on the EWP list of best sunscreens. The active incredient is titanium dioxide.

Insect Repellents. Alternative to Deet based insect repellents usually contain citronella, a natural distilled oil, along with eucalyptus oil, lavender oil and cedarwood oil.

*Herbal Armor Insect Spray:- This can be found at the EartheasyShop boasting that it has been rated the "best gear of the year" by National Geographic. This product contains five natural oils along with a time release delivery system to give a good four hour protection. The product advertises the fact that this repellent is biodegradable and has not been tested on animals, as well as being free of animal by products.

*CedarCide Insect Repellent:- Deet free insect repellent containing cedar oil and juniperus virginiana. This is available from pestproducts.com.

*St Gabriel Laboratories Mosquite Repellent:- Another product available from EartheasyShop. This comes with hose-end spray for spraying large areas and can repel insects for 30 to 60 days. Great for use before inviting people over for a barbeque or garden party. This repellent contains natural oils and garlic.

The choice is yours, to be chemical and toxic free as a wide range of products are available that provide that alternative. Choosing the least toxic products can mean can mean safety for your family and a step towards a greener world.

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