Summer Toxins 101: Smart Tips for a Healthier Season
- Jul 13
- 4 min read
Summer means sunshine, adventure, and endless days—but it also sneaks in hidden toxins that can seep through your skin and linger in the air. Here’s a breakdown of toxins you're likely to encounter, and how to enjoy a low-tox summer without missing all the fun!
Toxins We Inhale
Airborne Pollutants
During summer, airborne pollutants can increase due to higher temperatures. Heat can cause materials, such as plastics, to release more harmful gases. Other sources include vehicle emissions, industrial discharges, etc. These pollutants can worsen respiratory issues and lead to long-term health problems.
Actionable Steps to Reduce Exposure:
Use air purifiers with HEPA filters in your home to keep the air clean.
Keep windows closed on days when pollution levels are high.
Regularly clean your home to minimize indoor allergens.
Smoke from Summer Barbecues
Summer is the season for outdoor grilling, but inhaling smoke from barbecues can be harmful. Smoke contains tiny particles that can reach deep into the lungs and may lead to respiratory and heart health issues over time.
Actionable Steps to Reduce Exposure:
When grilling, choose an open area with good airflow to avoid inhaling smoke.
Chemical Sprays
In summer, we often use convenient spray products like mosquito repellents, body sprays and sunscreen. However, these sprays can pose inhalation risks and may not provide even coverage. Some studies suggest that wind can reduce their effectiveness, and experts advise caution with inhaling aerosol.
Actionable Steps to Reduce Exposure:
Choose lotion forms for sunscreen and insect repellent to minimize inhalation and ensure even application.
Look for products with non-toxic ingredients and third-party verification, like EWG Verified.
Pesticide Sprays
Summer often means pesticide treatments in public parks, lawns, and fruit trees. These chemicals can drift and expose you during picnics or outdoor walks.
Actionable Steps to Reduce Exposure:
Avoid recently treated areas for at least 48 hours.
Rinse produce thoroughly under running water, and peel when possible. For better results, soak produce in water with baking soda or vinegar to remove pesticides and dirt.
Toxins We Absorb Through the Skin
Sunscreen Chemicals
During summer fun in the sun, certain chemicals in sunscreens can be absorbed through the skin, potentially causing health issues like hormonal disruption and skin irritation.
Actionable Steps to Reduce Exposure:
Choose mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for better protection.
Opt for products that are free from oxybenzone and octinoxate.
Don't forget to reapply sunscreen often, especially after swimming or sweating during your beach day.
2. PFAS in Clothing
As you enjoy outdoor summer activities, keep in mind that PFAS are frequently present in water-repellent and stain-resistant fabrics. Activewear, swimwear, and other water-resistant fabrics may contain these forever chemicals, which can be absorbed through the skin and potentially cause health issues.
Actionable Steps to Reduce Exposure:
Look for PFAS-free clothing options for your summer wardrobe.
Wash new clothes before wearing them to remove any chemical residues.
Avoid stain-resistant treatments on summer outfits.
3. Chlorine and Pool Chemicals
Swimming is a fantastic way to stay cool, but chlorine in pools can irritate your skin and lungs. Be mindful of the pool chemicals while enjoying your summer swims!
Actionable Steps to Reduce Exposure:
Shower before and after swimming to help reduce chemical absorption.
Consider choosing saltwater pools or those that use alternative sanitization methods.
If you have sensitive skin or breathing issues, limit your time in chlorinated pools.
4. Skin Products
Many skincare products, like lotions and body sprays, contain phthalates, which can easily absorb through the skin. These chemicals have been linked to various health issues, including endocrine disruption and reproductive harm.
Actionable Steps to Reduce Exposure:
Choose “phthalate-free” labels, especially for products meant for kids.
Avoid vague terms like "fragrance" or "parfum", as they may contain phthalates. Instead, opt for fragrance-free or naturally scented items, like those with essential oils if you're not sensitive to them.
Toxins We Ingest
1. Paper Food Packaging
When enjoying summer picnics and barbecues, you might choose paper products to avoid plastic waste. However, many paper food packages are treated with chemicals or have a think plastic layer to make them grease-proof and durable. This includes items like burger wrappers, paper coffee cups, and muffin liners.
Watch Out for These Red Flags:
“Grease-Proof” or “Non-Stick”: These labels often mean the product has PFAS coatings.
Bright White Color: This may indicate chlorine bleaching, which can introduce harmful chemicals.
Strong or Water-Resistant Paper Towels: These may contain unsafe chemicals for food contact.
Bright White Coffee Filters: Likely bleached and may contain harmful substances.
Other “Water/ Grease Resistant” Paper Products: Items like coffee cups, fast food wrappers and paper plates may leach chemicals into food and drinks.
2. Bacterial Toxins
Summer heat can speed up bacterial growth on improperly stored or handled foods, increasing the risk of ingesting harmful bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter.
Steps to Reduce Exposure:
Chill Perishable Foods: Use insulated coolers with ice packs for your picnics and barbecues.
Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands for 20 seconds before handling food, after touching raw proteins, and after using the bathroom.
Separate Raw Meats: Keep raw meats, seafood, and eggs away from fresh produce. Sanitize cutting boards and utensils between uses.
3. Pesticide Residues
Summer brings a bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables, but they can carry pesticide residues from farms and gardens. Long-term exposure has been linked to serious health issues, especially in children.
Steps to Reduce Exposure:
Wash and Scrub: Soak produce in a solution of 1 teaspoon baking soda per 2 cups of water for 12 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Peel or Trim: Removing skins or outer leaves can significantly reduce pesticide levels, especially on apples, cucumbers, and lettuce.
Prioritize Organic: For the “Dirty Dozen” (like strawberries and spinach), choose certified organic when possible.
4. Microplastics in Bottled Water
Plastic water bottles can release microplastics and toxins into your water, particularly in hot environments, as heat accelerates this process.
Steps to Reduce Exposure:
Skip Single-Use: Opt for a reusable glass or stainless-steel bottle.
Avoid Heat Exposure: Never leave plastic bottles in hot cars or direct sunlight.
Filter at Home: Use a certified water filter to reduce microplastics and contaminants.
