As a children's environmental health advocate and an environmental attorney specializing in environmental law and consumer product labeling, I do my best to raise my kids, ages 3 and 5, in a non-toxic environment. I focus on simple, practical steps to reduce or eliminate toxic chemical exposures in the home. I am also the author of the forthcoming Smart Mama's Green Guide: Simple Steps to Reduce Your Child's Toxic Chemical Exposure, due out in June (reserve your copy now!).Prior to practing law, I was an environmental engineer for 5 years. I've been practing environmental and consumer law for more than 14 years. I am the founder of TheSmartMama, an eco consulting firm providing healthy home consults and XRF testing for lead and other elements in consumer products. I served as a Commissioner for the Los Angeles City Environmental Affairs Commission for 9 years. I am an Educational Programs Specialist for Healthy Child Healthy World.

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mamasick 5/10/2009
2:12 am

Safe Sunblock for My Child

I have been trying to use safe and organic products on my son such as shampoo, body wash or lotion. Now that the warm weather is upon us, I wondered if you could recommend what to look for or what not to look for in a sunblock or if there were any particular brands you would recommend? Thank you, Emily

TheSmartMama 5/11/2009
8:00 pm

Re: Safe Sunblock for My Child

Sunscreen is important to protect against skin cancer and other effects from the sun. Yet, a study last year by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) found that 4 out of 5 sunscreen products did not offer adequate protection from the sun or contained potentially harmful ingredients. So what can you do?

Of course, the old advice is true - wear appropriate protective clothing and minimize your exposure to the sun during the hottest part of the day. But buying the right sunscreen for your children is also important.

First, make sure you select a sunscreen that is effective against both UVA and UVB radiation. SPF only tells you about UVB protection, not UVA. In other words, virtually all sunscreens protect against UVB, but not all protect against UVA. Look for a claim of broad spectrum or UVA/UVB protection.

Second, make sure your sunscreen does not contain active ingredients that break down in the sun, thereby depriving you of their protection. Instead, look for products that contain titanium dioxide .... Read More

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