Chemical sunscreens are making it into the headlines again. A new study by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) concluded that six chemical sunscreens are absorbed into the bloodstream at high levels. While here at Block Island Organics we sell mineral ONLY sunscreens, we feel it’s important to update consumers on all types of sunscreen news and trends. The more informed you are the better decisions you can make for your skin. [More]

The price of sunglasses varies widely from a few dollars to hundreds or even thousands. But how much do you need to really spend to actually protect your eyes from the sun? Do you need to shell out hundreds of dollars or can you spend much less? The answer is surprising and a little confusing… [More]

Not all mineral sunscreens are created equal. What we mean is that many mineral sunscreens marketed as mineral are not mineral only and do in fact contain chemical sunscreens in them. Yeah, we agree, it can be a little confusing and concerning if you want a mineral only product. But don’t worry we’re here to help you separate fact from marketing when it comes to your sunscreen purchases. [More]

Homemade sunscreens are not safe. You might be thinking that’s convenient, you own a sunscreen company and of course you want us to buy your sunscreen. But that’s not why – DIY sunscreens are not tested (commercial sunscreens are tested) so claims about their level of protection cannot be validated. You can get burned badly. Still don’t believe me? A recent study of over 180 Pinterest DIY sunscreen pins found that a vast majority of them offered insufficient sun protection. [More]

The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) recently conducted a study around four chemical sunscreen ingredients to determine their safety. The results are complicated and while at Block Island Organics we make mineral only sunscreens – we feel it’s important to keep people up on the latest news in sun protection. It’s part of our mission to educate and keep consumers in the know. [More]

More and more concern is growing over chemical sunscreens and the danger they pose to coral reefs. Hawaii recently became the first state to ban the sale of chemical sunscreens. This law will go into effect January 2021. Now the Florida legislature is considering a similar ban on chemical sunscreens. [More]

Retinol, alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), and hydroquinone are powerful “active ingredients” on the market today that can help with the signs of skin aging. Great, right? Well yes, sort of – you have to use them correctly as a major side effect is they increase sun sensitivity. I know, so unfair – why does something that helps with the signs of aging also making us more susceptible to the sun – the leading cause of skin aging. Fortunately, if these ingredients are paired with effective sun protection, used at the right time, and you follow the direction of your doctor, you can be on your way to glowing skin. [More]

Yes, sunscreen can expire. Sometimes the date is obvious and sometimes not so much. How do you tell? Read on and now might be a good time to check your cabinet. [More]

Summer is in full swing so now is a great time to get a little refresher on using sunscreen. Surprisingly, there is a right and wrong when it comes to sunscreen and sun protection and the difference can mean sunburn (ouch!) or not. Don’t fret though; it’s not too difficult. Just take a look at these five mistakes people often make and avoid them so your skin doesn’t get all crispy and painful this summer (or winter). [More]

Let me get right to it – there is a difference between SPF and UPF. Many people confuse the two and it’s probably much better for your skin if you don’t ☺. But no worries we’ve got you covered and can easily explain the difference. [More]