A safer sunscreen

Sunscreen is a summer-must but no one wants to cover their kids or themselves in a bunch of chemicals if they don't have to. With mineral-based sunscreens, you get the same UVA, B and C protection in a natural, non-toxic form. The minerals actually form a barrier on the surface of the skin to block harmful rays from penetrating. And they are waterproof and effective instantly unlike the 30 minute delay required by synthetic sunscreens.

My favorite mineral-based sunscreen is the Sun Spray SPF30 Neutral by Lavera. I love the spray for quick application, especially when the kids just want to play right this second. It's organic, fragrance-free, contains no oxybenzone or parabens and is safe for even the most sensitive skin. It's so gentle in fact, that we use it from head to toe on the whole family. It's certainly not cheap but it lasts quite a while. We haven't even used half the bottle we bought last year for our family of 3. And frankly, for my family the peace of mind is worth the annual splurge.

$31 at Lavera