Sunscreen and bug-spray are two widely used products during the summer months in Southern Ontario. They seem like extremely helpful products, that protect us from the elements. However, like the majority of our manufactured products, most brands are full of chemicals that are dangerous to our bodies and the environment.
Sunscreen is something most of us grew up with, something that was forced on us by our parents before we could go play. But what we don’t grow up knowing, is that this shit is full of chemicals that are potentially harmful. Most sunscreens are chemical based and do not last as long or protect as well as mineral based products. Additionally, all these chemicals seep into our skin and linger inside. When we enter bodies of water, these chemicals wash off of our skin and pollute the environment, and harm aquatic life. Some places, such as Hawaii have even banned chemical based sunscreens to protect their beaches and reefs.
Buying alternative sunscreen products that are made using natural ingredients is much better for our bodies and for the environment. Bonus points for finding a product that doesn’t come in a plastic bottle – I doubt you’ll ever find one though; our society is too obsessed with plastic.
Bug spray is another product that we let sink into our skin that’s full of chemicals. For example, DEET is a bug repellent that is actually intended to kill insects and is harmful to rodents and pets as well. DEET can be found in a variety of bug sprays and it is capable of melting a fishing net – not something I want to put on my skin. One upside is that DEET can protect you from ticks. But I’d rather just wear long pants.
Like sunscreen, bug-spray is also available in a natural form that isn’t going to coat you in chemicals. You can even make your own bug repellent using essential oils which will keep you smelling fresh, and eliminated the need for canisters of story bought repellent.
When making your next purchase, be mindful of what you are buying and consider its unintended effects on our environment.
The Long Defeat 