Lately, it seems like the word “natural” has been slapped on products as readily as candy is passed out on Halloween. But what does natural even mean? It could be just about anything because there’s no regulation on the use of the word. So-called natural products may include asthma-inducing chemicals or plant-based ingredients that can cause severe reactions. But reading the list of ingredients may cause confusion as well. How do you know which ingredients are safe for you and your family? For sunscreen, one of the most important summertime products, the research nonprofit Environmental Working Group (EWG) has done the work for you. Here are some suggestions. DON’T LET FANCY LABELS FOOL YOU Know Which Common Sunscreen Ingredients May Be Harmful
The First Steps to Building Your Dream Patio
Words to BeWary Of
Enjoying your time outside can be hard when you also want indoor comforts. But why settle for just one when you can have the best of both worlds with an outdoor patio? Summer is a great time to make a plan to create or revamp your current patio into your dream patio. As with any home project, however, it can be overwhelming at first to design an entire space. If you’re not sure where to start, then here are some suggestions.
Read ingredient labels carefully when you’re choosing products. In addition to long chemical names and “natural” printed all over the labels, “fragrance” is another that has almost no regulation. Many “fragrant” scents in lotions and sunscreens are synthetic and can trigger allergies.
No. 1: Determine the purpose.
Oxybenzone is another commonly listed ingredient in sunscreen that has been linked to hormone disruption and allergies and has been flagged as potentially risky by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Along with octinoxate, an ultraviolet-filtering chemical, oxybenzone has also been shown to cause damage to coral reefs.
No two households are the same, and likewise, no two patios are used exactly the same way. Maybe you’d like to have a quiet, cozy spot in the mornings to listen to the sounds of nature, enjoy the weather, and take in a good book or podcast. Maybe you’d like to use your patio mainly to relax and breathe in the fresh air as you entertain guests. Or, maybe you need your patio to serve both purposes!
No. 2: Plan the space in advance.
This can be the hardest part for some, but you must keep two specific things in mind when planning your patio: the preferred size and any dream feature you’d like to include. If you can make these two work together, then you’ll be very satisfied with the results. Dream features can include a beautiful firepit, an elaborate brick design, a Jacuzzi, or a professional grilling station. For example, if you want a cozy spot for your family to enjoy Sunday afternoon barbecues, then you’ll need enough space to set up your ideal outdoor cooking area as well as a dining area with the right amount of seating. Once you have the space in mind, you can accommodate and plan for changes.
What to Choose
After several yearslong studies, the FDA reported that there’s only enough information to deem two sunscreen ingredients safe and effective: zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Look for brands that feature one or both of these as the main active ingredient(s) and avoid those with oxybenzone. Covering up with a hat, sunglasses, and clothing is also an effective way to protect yourself from the sun. Companies use complex words to mask potentially harmful ingredients, but don’t let them stump you. A quick Google search can often reveal what these words mean. For details on specific ingredients, check EWG.org, which lists and scores products and ingredients based on their health and environmental risks. Their site also provides downloadable sunscreen guides to help you shop smarter and safer.
No. 3: Consider how to decorate.
If your patio isn’t constructed yet (or if you’re reconstructing), then consider using fresh, great-looking patio pavers to complement your house’s exterior and invite you and your guests to step into the outdoors. Try to add interesting textures by using different materials. Slate, limestone, sandstone, and terra cotta paving slabs are very popular choices. Finally, decorate with planters, shade structures, and anything else you think will make your outdoor escape a little more comfortable.
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Published by The Newsletter Pro • www.newsletterpro.com
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