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Shopping for Answers: Sunscreen for kids needs zinc, titanium dioxide
By Leigh Grogan - lgrogan@sacbee.com
Published 12:00 am PDT Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Story appeared in SCENE section, Page E3
DEAR SHOPPING: My 2 1/2-year-old son is allergic to many of the ingredients found in most sunscreens. I've found that he does not react to sunscreens containing only titanium dioxide and zinc oxide as the active ingredients. However, I've only found one brand with just these ingredients. Mustela's SPF 50+ is a waterproof sunscreen. I need both a high SPF and waterproof sunscreen for this water-loving boy.
– Heather, Folsom
DEAR HEATHER: I checked out Mustela and, if it's working for your son, why change brands? It does claim to be water-resistant. So if you're concerned that it wears off too quickly, you could reapply more often. Remember, you're looking for a product that is a complete shield against both UVA and UVB rays. The key: Check the ingredients list on other brands. Make sure pure titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are among the first several ingredients and that the sunscreen is not scented. Fragrances can be irritating, especially to a child.
I looked at Bullfrog Superblock Lotion ($11.95). It has SPF 45 and is waterproof, sweatproof and hypoallergenic. It also contains titanium dioxide. Walgreens has its own brand called Sunblock With Zinc Oxide for Face, Nose & Ears. It has SPF 45 and costs $4.99. It goes on clear, not white.
In addition to your son's sunscreen, why not add a swimsuit and rash guard with a built-in SPF. I wrote about Lands' End's collection last week. They hold up well and cover portions of the torso, arms and legs that can burn easily. Check it out at www.landsend.com.
DEAR READERS: Regarding last week's request for a grapefruit/peppermint soap product, several readers wrote in with suggestions:
• From Bev in Roseville: I discovered a Grapefruit Tangelo Frappe product line while in the UC Davis bookstore/gift area. It's made by Mountain Country Soaps in Vermont. The soap is sold at www.mountaincountrysoap.com or call (877) 665-6963.
• From Marie in Elk Grove: My shop, Cottage Soapworks (9653 E. Stockton Blvd.) sells a handmade soap with the same scent as the Bath & Body Works brand. We also sell bottles of the scent so our customers can make their own products using the same fragrance.
About the writer:
- Send questions to Shopping for Answers, P.O. Box 15779, Sacramento, CA 95852, or e-mail shopping@sacbee.com.
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