Difference between Fluoride and Oxybenzone
In recent years, both fluoride and oxybenzone has been revealed to be potentially dangerous additives to things such as toothpaste and sunscreens. Children in particular seem to be at risk to the dangers of these potentially dangerous additives. In our world of trying to “go natural” and “go green” these dangers are being addressed. Here is a look at both of these additives and how they affect the products that we might be using.
What Products Are Affected?
Fluoride is most famously found in toothpaste and other oral care products. In some areas, low fluoride toothpaste is available and is widely gaining acceptance as the proper type for children to use. Oxybenzone is most commonly found in sunscreen products, but is quickly being pushed out of the market. Oxybenzone in sunscreen products is particularly dangerous for pregnant women and their babies, as well as children.
What Are The Dangers?
Fluoride has a number of problems that are usually not encountered when you follow directions on the label. Discolored teeth can result from too much fluoride and can even cause neurotoxic effects to develop. Fluoride is also harmful if you swallow it. Oxybenzone is dangerous on many levels, and is even thought to cause cancer. Oxybenzone also causes allergic reactions in some people when exposed to sunlight. The sunlight causes the obybenzone to react and rashes and sores can develop quickly and without expectation.
How Do We Stay Safe?
Fluoride safety starts with looking at the age of the person using the toothpaste. Young children should not use regular toothpaste, but if they do only in pea size. Rinsing and spitting is important as well rather than swallowing the toothpaste. Low fluoride toothpaste is preferred when available. This is becoming more common and available throughout the world and your dentist can certainly shed light on it has a concern. Also ask your pediatrician about the latest in this concern. Oxybenzone is a bit tougher, and requires close label reading. Always check for Oxybenzone as an ingredient in sunscreens, and avoid it at all costs. Some of the biggest name brands in the sunscreen market still use it, and should be avoided. If you are uncertain, it is much better to err on the side of caution and avoid it.
Both fluoride and Oxybenzone are dangerous additives that should be avoided where possible. The true nature of these additives are still being studied, but all indications are that they have an adverse effect on our health. Taking the time to read some labels and make adjustments would be the way to go until further studies are made.
Similarities and Differences
Fluoride
- Added most commonly in toothpaste and oral care products
- Found to cause discolored teeth and neurotoxic effects
- Harmful to swallow
- Can be avoided by using low fluoride products and proper rinsing and spitting
- Children are particularly at risk
Oxybenzone
- Added most commonly to sunscreen products
- Found to cause allergic reactions and possibly cancer
- Absorbed into the skin
- Can be avoided by not using products that use it as an ingredient
- Children and pregnant women particularly at risk
