First, a fear is created. Then, a solution is sold.
And often, the solution introduces a new set of problems that keeps the cycle going.
Sun care is a perfect example.
For years we’ve been told the sun is something to fear. As long as that message sticks, we’ll keep buying whatever promises protection.
We’re told sunscreen is protecting us, all while exposing us to chemicals that can disrupt our hormones — issues that eventually become someone else’s business to treat.
Toups isn’t afraid of the sun, or the fear tactics used by “Big Sunscreen.” In this blog, you’ll learn:
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Why your body needs sunlight
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Chemicals to avoid and their risks
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Considerations for breastfeeding moms
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The difference between chemical and mineral sunscreen
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Safer alternatives that perform just as well
Why Your Body Needs Sunlight
Before we talk about sunscreen, it’s important to understand why avoiding the sun entirely isn’t the solution.
Sun exposure, when done responsibly, supports several essential functions in the body:
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Vitamin D production — Vitamin D is created when sunlight interacts with cholesterol in the skin. It supports bone health, hormone balance, and immune function.
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Mood and mental health — Sunlight helps regulate serotonin levels, which are linked to improved mood and emotional wellbeing.
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Healthy sleep cycles — Exposure to natural light during the day helps regulate circadian rhythms, which influence how well we sleep at night.
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Immune support — Vitamin D and natural light exposure both play roles in supporting immune system health.
In other words, the goal shouldn’t be avoiding the sun completely. The goal is safe, smart exposure and protection when you need it.
The Real Problem: What’s in Most Sunscreens
If the sun itself isn’t the problem, what is?
For many families — especially breastfeeding mothers — the real concern is chemical sunscreen ingredients that are absorbed into the body.
Many conventional sunscreens rely on chemical UV filters such as:
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Oxybenzone
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Octinoxate
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Octisalate
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Octocrylene
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Homosalate
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Avobenzone
Chemicals Found in Breast Milk & Bloodstream
Research has shown these ingredients don’t stay on the surface of the skin.
Studies published by the FDA found that several of these chemicals are systemically absorbed into the bloodstream after typical sunscreen use. They can also remain detectable on the skin and in the body weeks after application.
Researchers have even detected sunscreen ingredients in:
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Breast milk
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Urine samples
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Blood plasma
For breastfeeding mothers, that raises questions about what’s being transferred to their babies.
Risk of Endocrine Disruption
There’s also growing concern about endocrine-disrupting effects from some of these ingredients — particularly oxybenzone and octinoxate.
European regulators have already limited how much of these chemicals can be used in sunscreen formulas. In the United States, manufacturers are still allowed to use these ingredients at higher levels than those permitted in Europe.
Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreen
Sunscreens generally fall into two categories: chemical and mineral. The difference is how they protect your skin.
Chemical Sunscreens
Chemical sunscreens absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat within the skin.
The downside is that the active ingredients often penetrate the skin barrier, which is why they can later be detected in the bloodstream and other bodily systems.
Mineral Sunscreens
Mineral sunscreens work differently.
Instead of absorbing UV radiation, they sit on the surface of the skin and physically reflect or scatter UV rays.
Mineral sunscreen has long been considered a safer option for sensitive skin and for people seeking to reduce chemical exposure.
It’s also widely regarded as reef-safe, making them a more environmentally responsible choice as well.
Why Non-Nano Zinc Oxide Matters
Not all mineral sunscreen is created equal, though.
Some formulas use nano-sized particles of zinc oxide. These particles are extremely small — small enough that some researchers believe they may penetrate the skin barrier.
Non-nano zinc oxide are larger particles that remain on the surface of the skin. This approach helps ensure the protection stays where it belongs — on the skin, not inside the body.
A Safer Approach to Sun Protection
At Toups, we believe sun protection should do two things:
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Protect the skin effectively
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Avoid introducing unnecessary toxins into the body
That’s why our sun care products rely on non-nano zinc oxide paired with nutrient-dense ingredients that support the skin itself.
Sun Stick: The Simplest Formula Possible
Our Sun Stick was designed with simplicity and convenience in mind.
Just three ingredients:
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100% grass-fed tallow
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Beeswax
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20% non-nano zinc oxide
That’s it. No chemical filters. No endocrine disruptors. No unnecessary fillers.
Because of its gentle formulation, it’s safe for:
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Babies
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Breastfeeding mothers
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Sensitive skin
Sun Balm: Water-Resistant Mineral Protection
For longer days outside and larger areas of the body, our Sun Balm offers water-resistant protection and post-sun repair.
Just five ingredients:
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100% grass-fed tallow
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*Organic Virgin Olive Oil
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20% Non-Nano Zinc-Oxide
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Coconut Co2
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Vanilla Extract
Because tallow mimics the skin’s natural oils, it’s more glowy than greasy compared to artificial lotions.
The SPF Makeup Problem
Many women run into the same frustration when it comes to sun protection. Sunscreen and makeup don’t always play nicely together.
Common problems include:
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Makeup separating or pilling over SPF
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Heavy, greasy sunscreen formulas
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White cast from mineral sunscreens
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Breakouts from chemical filters
The result? Many people skip sunscreen altogether when they’re wearing makeup. But you shouldn’t have to choose between sun protection and a polished look.
Mineral Makeup That Protects and Perfects
Our Mineral Makeup offers natural SPF support thanks to non-nano zinc oxide, while still providing beautiful coverage.
Unlike many mineral makeup formulas, we intentionally leave out bismuth oxychloride — a common filler that can cause irritation and itching for many people.
For many women, this becomes an easy way to add another layer of sun protection throughout the day.
Tip: Use our Flawless Face Primer underneath for smooth application and to extend the life of your foundation.
Common Sense Sun Care
“Ancestral wisdom” has always been a tenant of Toups. Some things just make sense — like the fact that humans didn’t evolve under fluorescent lights. We evolved outside, under the sun. Sunlight is part of how our bodies regulate mood, sleep, immunity, and vitamin D production.
Living by “ancestral” standards in a modern world involves hours of research and second-guessing ourselves when our instincts are at odds with the norm.
We not only give you permission to listen to that instinct, but want to make it easier for you to do so.
All of the mentioned products are pre-loaded to your cart here!
References
EWG. “The Trouble with Ingredients in Sunscreens.” Ewg.org, 2008, www.ewg.org/sunscreen/report/the-trouble-with-sunscreen-chemicals/.