Sunscreen, Hormones & Sunlight: What You Need to Know for Healthy Skin & Balanced Hormones
When summer hits, most of us reach for sunscreen without a second thought.
We’ve been conditioned to fear the sun, slather on SPF at all hours, and avoid UV exposure like it’s the villain. But here’s the thing: not all sunscreen is created equal, and not all sun exposure is harmful. In fact, when it comes to your hormones, some of the most common sunscreens on the market may be doing more harm than good—and that sunshine you’re avoiding? It might be exactly what your hormones are begging for.
Let’s unpack the truth behind sunscreen, hormone health, and how to find a cleaner, more balanced approach.
Your Hormones Don’t Like Chemical Sunscreens
Many conventional sunscreens contain ingredients that act as endocrine disruptors—chemicals that mimic or interfere with the body’s hormones. These can mess with everything from estrogen to thyroid function and even cortisol regulation.
Top chemicals to avoid in sunscreen include:
Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3) – Linked to estrogen disruption, thyroid dysfunction, and allergic reactions.
Octinoxate (Octyl methoxycinnamate) – Known to alter hormone levels and can affect reproductive health.
Homosalate – May disrupt estrogen and androgen activity.
Parabens – Used as preservatives but known for their estrogenic effects.
Fragrance/Parfum – A loophole for many hidden hormone-disrupting chemicals.
These ingredients are absorbed into the bloodstream—even after a single application—and can linger for days. For anyone struggling with hormone imbalance, fatigue, bloating, mood swings, or thyroid issues, these chemicals could be adding fuel to the fire.
Why You Need Some Sunshine
Here’s the twist: your body needs sunlight—specifically UVB rays—to produce vitamin D, a nutrient that’s actually a hormone precursor and plays a major role in regulating:
Estrogen and testosterone
Mood and sleep via serotonin and melatonin production
Immune function
Calcium balance and bone health
Wearing sunscreen 24/7 blocks this natural vitamin D synthesis. I recommend giving your skin AT LEAST 10–20 minutes of unprotected sun exposure (arms, legs, or back) a few times a week—especially in the morning when UV index is lower and melatonin is still clearing from the system.
Always adjust for your skin tone and the intensity of the sun where you live.
What to Use Instead: Clean Sunscreen That Protects and Respects Your Hormones
I’m not saying skip sunscreen altogether. I’m saying choose one that protects without disrupting your endocrine system.
Here are some clean, mineral-based options I trust:
✅ doTERRA Mineral Sunscreen Line
Broad spectrum SPF 30 (lotion, spray, and stick formats)
Uses non-nano zinc oxide
Infused with nourishing botanicals like shea butter, vitamin E, and essential oils
Reef-safe, cruelty-free, and tested for purity
Smells amazing without synthetic fragrance
Easy to apply and rubs in well (no ghost-face effect)
➡️ You can shop doTERRA’s clean sunscreen through my referral link here. (Tip: grab a kit to save if you're new to doTERRA!)
✅ Other Clean Sunscreen Options
Badger SPF 30 Clear Zinc Sunscreen
Thinksport SPF 50+
Attitude
Earth Mama Organics Mineral Sunscreen
Check out the Environmental Working Group for their annual line up.
When shopping, look for:
Zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as active ingredients (non-nano!)
No fragrance, parabens, or “oxy-” anything
EWG-verified or reef-safe labeling
Final Thoughts: It’s About Balance
Our skin is our largest organ, and it plays a major role in detox, immunity, and even hormone metabolism. Slathering it in chemicals every single day, especially during the months when hormone balance is already more vulnerable (hello, perimenopause or adrenal fatigue), isn’t ideal.
Instead, aim for:
Morning sunlight exposure (without sunscreen) to support circadian rhythm and vitamin D
Clean sunscreen when you’re out longer or during peak hours (midday)
Covering up with a hat or light clothing as a non-toxic form of sun protection
Your hormones will thank you. Your skin will too.
Ready to Switch to a Cleaner Option?
If you’re curious about trying doTERRA’s clean sunscreen (or other natural products that support your hormone health), you can browse here or reach out and I’d be happy to help you choose what’s right for you.
Let the sun kiss your skin—but do it smartly, naturally, and in a way that supports your whole body health.
