For years Aussies have slipped, slopped and slapped to protect ourselves against skin cancer. We’re well informed about the dangers of the sun when it comes to our skin, especially for anyone with a fair complexion like me.
Just like their humans, dogs are also at risk of sun damage, particularly dogs with a white or light-coloured coat, thinning fur or exposed skin. There are a number of sunscreen products available for dogs to reduce health risks. Trouble is that the pet industry’s lack of regulation means that there is no requirement for brands to be transparent about ingredients.
To make matters worse, there is also a general lack of understanding among pet parents about the potential health risks of a number of ingredients used commonly in pet and human sunscreens. The following six ingredients are often found in sunscreens and other topical products and should be avoided, especially if you have a dog with sensitive skin:
1. Zinc Oxide
Zinc oxide is a mineral commonly found in sunscreens and nappy creams for its protective and soothing properties. While it’s certainly effective in providing sun protection, zinc oxide poses several risks when used in topical products for dogs.
Zinc oxide is highly toxic to dogs if ingested, even in small amounts. Dogs are prone to licking topical products off their skin, and ingestion of zinc oxide can lead to zinc toxicity, which may cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and, in severe cases, organ damage or failure.
Although it’s often used to soothe skin in humans, it can cause irritation or dryness in some dogs, particularly those with sensitive skin. Signs of irritation can include redness, itching, and discomfort, which can be made worse if the dog licks or scratches the area.
In powder or spray forms, zinc oxide particles can be inhaled by dogs, leading to respiratory irritation. Symptoms may include coughing, sneezing, or nasal discharge, and inhalation of high concentrations could potentially cause respiratory distress.
2. Titanium Dioxide
Titanium dioxide is often used in sunscreens and cosmetic products for its UV-blocking properties but can be problematic when used in topical products for dogs.
Titanium dioxide can be toxic if ingested in large amounts. A dog simply licking it off their skin can cause a stomach upset causing symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. Repeated or excessive ingestion raises the risk of more severe digestive issues.
It can also cause skin irritation in dogs with sensitive skin. Signs of irritation include redness, itching, and mild discomfort, especially on areas with thinner fur or in dogs with pre-existing skin conditions. In some cases, it may worsen skin issues if used repeatedly.
Titanium dioxide particles, especially in powder or spray forms, can be inhaled by dogs, leading to respiratory irritation. Inhalation may cause coughing, sneezing, or nasal discharge, and high concentrations could potentially lead to respiratory distress or inflammation over time. Some studies indicate that nanoparticles may accumulate in tissues, raising concerns about long-term exposure effects.
3. Para-Aminobenzoic Acid (PABA)
Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) is commonly used in human sunscreens due to its UV-absorbing properties, but it poses several health risks when applied topically to dogs.
PABA can cause skin irritation in dogs, especially those with sensitive skin. Symptoms may include redness, itching, and inflammation, which could worsen with repeated use. Ironically, it can actually increase photosensitivity in some cases, making the skin more prone to sunburn and irritation after application.
If a dog licks PABA off their skin or fur, it can lead to toxicity. Ingestion can cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain, and, in severe cases, it may lead to more serious health concerns, including liver damage.
Some studies have raised concerns about PABA potentially having carcinogenic (cancer-causing) properties, especially with prolonged exposure or high doses, although this is still under investigation.
4. Polyethylene
Polyethylene is used in topical products primarily used as a stabilizer, binder, or thickening agent. It’s generally considered safe but is not without risks.
Polyethylene can cause mild skin irritation or allergic reactions in some dogs, leading to redness, itching, and discomfort. Dogs with sensitive skin are especially prone to reactions.
If ingested through licking, it can cause stomach upset, including vomiting and diarrhoea. Repeated ingestion may lead to digestive irritation.
Polyethylene can also create an artificial barrier on the skin, which interferes with the skin’s natural ability to breathe and release toxins. This can lead to clogged pores and exacerbate skin issues over time.
4. Parabens
Propylparaben and methylparaben are synthetic preservatives used in various topical products to prevent microbial growth. While they are effective preservatives, their use in dog skincare products carries potential health risks.
Both propylparaben and methylparaben can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some dogs, especially those with sensitive skin. Symptoms may include redness, itching, swelling, and discomfort.
Parabens, including propylparaben and methylparaben, are known to mimic estrogen in the body. This hormone-disrupting effect has raised concerns that long-term exposure may interfere with hormonal balance, potentially affecting reproductive health.
If dogs lick products containing parabens from their skin or fur, they may accumulate in the body over time, causing long-term health risks including digestive upset, liver and kidney stress and even increased cancer risk.
Parabens can also make the skin more susceptible to UV damage. When applied topically, they may increase the likelihood of skin irritation and potential sun damage, especially if the dog is frequently exposed to sunlight.
5. Mineral Oil
Mineral oil, a byproduct of petroleum refining, is often used in skincare products as a moisturizer. While it can create a barrier on the skin to prevent moisture loss, using mineral oil in dog skincare products can have several negative health implications.
Mineral oil can also cause irritation or an allergic reaction in some dogs, especially if they have sensitive skin. Symptoms could include redness, itching, or a rash. It can also interfere with the skin's natural ability to breathe and release toxins by clogging pores and causing skin issues to worsen, especially in dogs prone to sensitive or oily skin.
Mineral oil can coat the skin in a way that prevents it from naturally balancing its oil levels, potentially leading to a dependency on external moisturizers. Over time, this can strip the skin of its natural oils, resulting in dryness or irritation when mineral oil is not applied.
Ingestion through licking the skin can cause gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal discomfort.
6. Cetyl Alcohol.
Cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol derived from plants or petroleum and is commonly used in skincare products as an emulsifier and stabilizer. While it is generally considered safe for topical use in small amounts, it may have some negative effects when used in dog skincare products.
Cetyl alcohol can cause mild skin irritation in dogs with sensitive or allergy-prone skin. Symptoms may include redness, itching, dryness, or discomfort, especially if used frequently or in high concentrations.
Although it can help moisturize by providing a smooth, soft feeling on the skin, it may interfere with the skin's natural oil balance in some dogs. This can lead to either overly dry or oily skin, depending on individual sensitivities.
When licked, cetyl alcohol can potentially cause mild digestive upset, including vomiting or diarrhoea.
It can also create a waxy buildup over time, especially if used frequently. This may make the coat feel heavy and reduce breathability in the skin, potentially leading to clogged pores or exacerbating other skin issues.
What to look for in a sunscreen for your dog
Always look for products that provide a full list of ingredients. Avoid any product that avoids listing ingredients or lists only ‘active’ or ‘hero’ ingredients. Stick to brands that offer transparency to customers.
If you ever come across a list of ingredient names you don’t understand, you can check their safety on the Pet Shampoo Ingredient Database.
Natural Sunscreen Ingredients
Several organic oils and natural compounds have mild SPF properties, providing some level of sun protection. The oils to look for with the highest natural SPF levels among plant-based options are:
1. Raspberry Seed Oil (SPF 28-50)
2. Carrot Seed Oil (SPF 35-40)
3. Wheatgerm Oil (SPF 20)
The following natural ingredients have a lower natural SPF but are beneficial when used in combination with higher SPF ingredients:
4. Shea Butter (SPF 3-6)
5. Coconut Oil (SPF 4-7)
6. Olive Oil (SPF 7-8)
Bear + Kind's Sunny Side Up Sun Protection Balm is formulated by a Canine Herbalist using only 100% natural (organic where possible) ingredients and absolutely zero chemicals, synthetics or irritants.
To find out more go to www.bearandkind.com.au.
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