Blog
Blogs
Every 3rd Rock article, sorted by what it covers. Posts that span topics appear under each one.
FDA Approves First New Sunscreen Active in Decades: Innovation or Reinforcement of an Aging Chemical Paradigm?
The first new sunscreen active added to the U.S. OTC monograph in more than 25 years. Bemotrizinol belongs to the same chemical sunscreen philosophy that has dominated the market for decade. This "new" active is not actually new, just new to use in the USA. Therefore, this approval represents an evolution—not a revolution, as Europe has been using it for over 25 years, with no marked decline in rising skin cancer rates.
Understanding the UV Index: Your Guide to Safer Sun Exposure
The UV index is a helpful tool. It guides us to make smarter decisions about sun safety, ensuring we minimize the risk of sunburn, skin damage, and long-term health issues like skin cancer. In this guide, we'll dive into what the UV index is, where to find it, what the numbers mean, and how this knowledge can help you choose the right sun protection strategies.
SPF, UVA & UVB: The Science Behind the Green Line
When shopping for sunscreen, most people look at one thing first: the SPF number. SPF 15, SPF 30, SPF 50—higher must be better, right? Not necessarily.
Freedom to Choose Because of the Sacrifice of Heroes: Reflecting This Memorial Day
Every Memorial Day, we remember the soldiers who fought and died for our nation. Their sacrifices paved the way for the liberties we enjoy today. Thanks to the sacrifices of those who serve, we have the freedom to choose products that align with our values
FDA Facts on CGMP: Why Manufacturing Standards Matter for Product Quality
Understanding FDA facts on CGMP helps consumers recognize why manufacturing standards matter for product quality, consistency, and safety. Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMP), regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, establish strict requirements for manufacturing processes, facility controls, employee training, and quality systems designed to help ensure products are produced under reliable and sanitary conditions.
Non-Toxic Sunscreen Guide: What Big Companies Won't Tell You By Dr.Guerry Grune (with Jonathan Chauvette)
Dive deep into sunscreen myths, SPF protection, endocrine disruptors, and the FDA regulations with Jonathan Chauvette and Dr. Guerry Grune. Learn about non-toxic sunscreens, skin cancer risks, and how zinc oxide provides safer, better protection against harmful UV radiation.
3rd Rock Sunblock Checks All the Reef Safe Boxes
The 3rd Rock (Earth) is going through some changes. One of the changes that stands out is the increasing rate of coral bleaching and coral reef death. Much of this is due to chemicals added to the water from swimmers, divers, those snorkeling, or others just floating. These chemicals come from products that we use daily which have ingredients that are not reef safe. When your skin touches the water, many of the hundreds of chemicals in personal care products, cosmetics, and sunscreens a person has applied wash off into the water. It is unfortunate that sunscreen products, used to keep you at the beach and in the water, are not only made with harmful chemical ingredients, but products that degrade into even more harmful chemicals. (Remember the benzene?) These ingredients are NOT Reef Safe. Because of their beauty and unique, plentiful ocean-life, coral reefs attract people that swim slowly over the reef to gaze in awe.... while depositing harmful chemicals over them. Add in other types of pollution, and the reefs greatly suffer. This is not reef safe behavior. Surfrider Foundation came out with a great article in May about what to look for in sunscreens that actually work, that are healthy for your body, and that are good for ocean life (reef safe). 3rd Rock Essentials Sunscreen checks ALL of these boxes! We are more than reef safe... WE FEED THE REEF! *3rd Rock Sunblock is approved for use on any beach in any part of the world.Our non-toxic ingredients have been selected with reef-safe in mind. And then we took it a step further... Our ingredients FEED THE REEF. Instead of depositing chemicals and their degradation products as you swim, the ingredients in 3rd Rock Sunblock Sunscreen Lotion deposit minerals and foods for the reef. Click HERE to read the article.
Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin: Gentle Protection for Delicate and Light Complexions
Choosing the right sunscreen can be tricky, especially for those of us with sensitive skin, infants, small children, and those with damaged skin from years of overexposure. We know the struggle of finding a product that protects without causing irritation or breakouts. That's why we've done the research to help you find the perfect sunscreen for your delicate or light complexion. The best sunscreens for sensitive skin are those that use natural, mineral-based formulas with broad-spectrum coverage and skin-calming ingredients. These gentle options typically contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the active ingredients, which primarily stay on the top layer of the skin rather than being absorbed. This keeps the mineral active sunscreens from changing with sun exposure so that UV light from the sun will not allow for reactions leading to both ineffective protection against harmful UV rays and possibly toxic substances. Some mineral based sunscreens utilize “natural” ingredients that are healthier for your body than the organic sunscreen actives which are all proven toxic endocrine disrupters used for their transparency on the skin for mass-market brands. Choosing the Right Sunscreen For Sensitive Skin When selecting sunscreen for sensitive skin, it's crucial to consider several factors. We'll explore the key elements that make a sunscreen suitable for sensitive and delicate skin types. Understanding SPF - What SPF is best for sensitive skin? SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is a measure of how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays ONLY. For sensitive skin, we recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. This level of protection blocks about 97% of UVB rays. At 3rd Rock Essentials, our sunscreens are all SPF 35+. Higher SPF numbers offer marginally better UVB protection but may contain harmful other non-active ingredients that could irritate your sensitive, light, and in some cases already UV aged skin. It's essential to reapply water based sunscreens every two hours as they evaporate, regardless of the SPF rating. That is not true for 3rd Rock Sunblock sunscreens that are glycerine based and never evaporate. Remember, no sunscreen provides 100% UVB and UVA protection. Combining sunscreen use with protective clothing and seeking shade during peak sun hours is the best strategy for sun protection. Best sunscreen ingredients for sensitive skin When shopping for sunscreen for any type of skin - sensitive or otherwise, we recommend looking for natural, mineral-based options. Zinc oxide is always the preferred active as it absorbs and reflects both UVB and UVA rays more efficiently and effectively than TiO2 or any of the organic “clear” sunscreens. Other beneficial ingredients include: Antioxidants: Offer additional protection against free radicals (there is a long list of these) Gamma Oryzinol: Helps reduce inflammation Whole leaf aloe (not reconstituted) : Provides hydration Ceramides: Strengthen the skin barrier Look for products labeled “unscented,” "fragrance-free," and/or "hypoallergenic" to minimize the risk of irritation. Water-resistant formulas are great for outdoor activities but may require gentler cleansing methods to remove. Sunscreen ingredients to avoid for sensitive skin For sensitive skin, it's best to steer clear of certain ingredients that may cause irritation or allergic reactions. We advise avoiding: Chemical sunscreen filters like oxybenzone, methoxy cinnimate, avobenzone, PABA and the salicylates Fragrances (artificially created ones - essential oils may be fine) Alcohol (especially denatured alcohol) Parabens Sulfates Be cautious with products containing retinoids or alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), as these can increase sun sensitivity. If you use these ingredients in your skincare routine, apply them at night and always use sunscreen during the day. Product Recommendation: Mineral-Based Sunscreen for light and sensitive skin For those with sensitive skin seeking natural sun protection, we suggest exploring mineral-based options. Look for sunscreens that use zinc oxide as the primary active ingredient. Ideal products for sensitive skin should be: Free from synthetic fragrances Benzene-free (meaning no benzones or benzoates) Non-comedogenic Moisturizing without being greasy When trying a new sunscreen, we recommend doing a patch test on a small area of skin before applying it to your face or entire body. This helps ensure your skin won't react negatively to the product. Remember, the best sunscreen is one you'll use consistently. Find a formula that feels comfortable on your skin and fits easily into your daily routine. Application and Usage Tips Proper application and sun safety practices are crucial for protecting sensitive skin. Let's explore techniques to maximize sunscreen effectiveness and stay safe in the sun. Remember to READ THE LABEL for any suggestions by the manufacturer. Proper Application Techniques When applying sunscreen to sensitive skin, use gentle, circular motions to rub it thoroughly into your skin. We recommend starting with clean, dry skin for optimal absorption. Apply a generous amount - about 1 ounce (30 ml) for full-body coverage. Don't forget often-missed areas like: Ears Back of neck Tops of feet Scalp (if hair is thinning or bald) For hard-to-reach areas like your back, ask for help - we don’t recommend using any spray sunscreens. Reapply every 2 hours for the water based versions (i.e. anything but 3rd Rock’s sunscreens that are glycerine based) or more frequently if swimming or sweating. Sun Safety Practices We advise following these sun safety measures to protect sensitive skin: Seek shade, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV rays are strongest. Wear protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Remember that SPF 30 means that if your start to turn pink in the presence of the sun in 20 minutes you are getting 20x 30 = 600 minutes of protection (10 hours) from UBS ONLY !!!! - So in a way - SPF is misleading - because if you don’t burn you think you’re protected -and you are - but NOT FROM UVA !!! For sensitive skin, mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often gentler options. Always patch-test new products before full application. Remember UVA are the long penetrating rays that damage the DNA of your skin cells much more than UVB will. Remember to apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before sun exposure to allow it to fully absorb. Stay hydrated and monitor your skin for any reactions. Shop 3rd Rock Essentials: Best mineral sunscreen for sensitive skin Looking for a gentle sunscreen that won't irritate your sensitive, young, light or overexposed skin? We've got you covered! Our 3rd Rock Sunblock is specially formulated for all of these delicate complexions. This natural, chemical-free sunscreen is packed with skin-loving ingredients. It's made with food-grade ingredients only ensuring it's safe and nourishing for your skin. We say “if you wouldn't put the ingredients in your mouth why on Earth would you put them on your skin?” Key features of our sunscreen: SPF 35 protection • Zinc oxide formula • No endocrine disruptors • Independently tested to provide UVA/UVB protection and proven best UVA protection of any sunscreen on the market. We understand the struggle of finding a sunscreen that doesn't cause reactions. That's why we've created a product that's both effective and gentle. Our sunscreen comes in three varieties: Unscented Aromatherapeutic For infants/children All three options provide excellent sun protection without compromising on skin sensitivity. Don't let sensitive skin keep you from enjoying the outdoors. Try our 3rd Rock Sunblock today and experience the difference of a truly proactive skin-friendly sunscreen. Remember, protecting your skin is essential year-round. With our sunscreen, you can confidently face the sun, knowing your sensitive skin is well-protected. Ready to make the switch? Order your 3rd Rock Sunblock now. Your skin will thank you!
Why Magnesium Citrate?
Are you familiar with magnesium citrate? Magnesium citrate is a form of magnesium combined with citric acid. Magnesium itself is an essential mineral involved in hundreds of processes in the body, including muscle and nerve function, heart rhythm, blood sugar regulation, and bone health. People often use magnesium citrate because it is relatively well absorbed compared with some other magnesium forms. There are liver related benefits being studied. Possible liver-related benefits include: Improving insulin sensitivityMagnesium helps regulate glucose metabolism and insulin function. Since insulin resistance is strongly linked to fatty liver disease, adequate magnesium may help reduce risk factors associated with Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Reducing inflammationLow magnesium levels are associated with higher inflammatory markers. Chronic inflammation contributes to liver injury and progression of fatty liver disease. Supporting metabolic healthMagnesium is involved in lipid metabolism, blood sugar control, and energy production — all important in liver function and prevention of metabolic syndrome. Possible association with lower liver disease riskSome observational studies have found that people with higher magnesium intake may have lower rates of fatty liver disease and some liver complications. However, this does not prove magnesium itself prevents liver disease. Have you tried Hangover Block & Liver Cleanse (now Liver Guard)? There is a lot of herbal power packed into that little bottle. We also include our chelated silver oxide and Magnesium citrate. Here's an interesting research paper* that explains why we use Magnesium Citrate in our Liver Cleanse. Findings support that higher intakes of magnesium are associated with a reduced risk of mortality due to liver disease -- particularly among alcohol drinkers and those with hepatic steatosis (fatty liver disease). To read the entire study, click the link below. *Wu, L., Zhu, X., Fan, L. et al. Magnesium intake and mortality due to liver diseases: Results from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey Cohort. Sci Rep 7, 17913 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-017-18076-5
Is the US Promoting Antiquated Sunscreen Science?
We at 3rd Rock love to be outside, at the beach, on the trails, surfing, hiking, riding, swimming, climbing. To keep being able to do this without fear of the sun, 3rd Rock worked all the sunscreen science we could call on and figured out how to make our Zinc Oxide active ingredient the real deal!
Silver Supplement Differences - Chelated v. Colloidal / Ionic / Diatomic
There are many types of silver to choose from, some examples being Colloidal, Ionic, Diatomic and our Chelated silver. We want to help you navigate the silver differences, and show you our "Chelated v. Colloidal Silver" chart that sheds more light on the topic of our silver products, their concentrations, and most importantly, the health benefits for you and those you love!
3rd Rock Nerd Nook Brings More In-Depth Science
We're adding some white papers for the nerds amongst us! For our very inquisitive friends... enjoy the 3rd rock Nerd Nook where the science gets more "science-y". Grab your coffee, get comfortable, and dive into some in-depth science!
3rd Rock Essentials Founder Guerry Grune on The DNA TALKS Podcast Episode #21: Uncovering the Truth About Sunscreen
Here's a fact for everyone on Earth: Sun exposure leads to skin damage and this can eventually lead to a greater risk of skin cancer. That being said, is sunscreen enough to combat the ultraviolet rays of the sun?
Newsflash: Alcohol-based SPRAY HAND SANITIZERS RECALLED
Good News! 3rd Rock Silver Spray is Alcohol Free! Stock up with your supply of Silver Infusion Spray and Large-size Refill Today! Many spray hand sanitizers use an alcohol-based solution to kill germs. The alcohols used are primarily ethyl alcohol (grain alcohol) and methanol (wood alcohol). Other hand sanitizer ingredients, in addition to alcohol, are benzene and acetaldehyde. Let’s dig into the science of these chemicals used for hand sanitizers… Ethyl alcohol is food grade and found in alcoholic beverages. Methanol is not food grade — it is toxic (THINK MOONSHINE THAT BLINDS PEROPE FOR INSTANCE) — it is an industrial alcohol used for fuel, solvents, and antifreeze. If a child accidentally swallowed a methanol-containing product such as hand sanitizer the result could be catastrophic. If an adult ingested a methanol-based product as an alternative to the food grade ethyl alcohol it would be just as poisonous. The FDA reports: “Substantial methanol exposure can result in nausea, vomiting, headache, blurred vision, permanent blindness, seizures, coma, permanent damage to the nervous system, or death.” Due to the toxicity of methanol-based hand sanitizers the FDA has recalled these products to be taken off the store shelves. If this is not already alarming, the fact is that the use of alcohol also works on bacteria for about 10-15 seconds and dries out your skin. You’d be better off using soap and water but that’s not handy to carry around. Do you want alcohol in your hand sanitizer? 3rd Rock Essentials silver products are made with food-grade, chelated silver oxide and NO HARMFUL ALCOHOLS. In fact, we only use chelated silver oxide. This is 32 times more efficacious than colloidal silver and is a safe form of bacteria-destroying silver due to its chelation properties. Rest at ease knowing 3rd Rock Essentials provides only products that are food grade and edible should they be ingested – never containing alcohols. No harmful fumes, no toxicity, never dries out your skin or endangers your loved ones.
MINIMIZING INFLAMMATION AND REDUCING TOXIC EXPOSURE
3rdRock's silver products address the elimination of "foreign invaders" to our bodies. Our chelated silver oxide, specifically, is effective for treating a host of these concerns. In 2016-2017, 3rd Rock Essentials conducted a study on the effectiveness of Nutrasporin® for common urinary tract issues at the Marine Court retirement home in Bremerton, WA. Over the course of the study urinary tract issues were essentially eliminated and did not reoccur using Nutrasporin®.
Spread Kindness Not Bacteria: Use Silver Infusion Spray
3rd Rock Essentials formulates all its products to be “earth friendly” AND, at the same time, care for your body inside and out. It's why our motto is, and continues to be, “if you wouldn’t put it in your mouth why on Earth would you put it on your skin?” If you read our ingredient lists there would be no hesitation to consume ANY of the ingredients on the list. They are ALL food grade edible, including our Silver Infusion spray.
Study Links Common Sunscreens and Personal Care Products to Breast Cancer
A new study out of the UMASS Amherst Medical Center has shown that chemicals common to many personal care products, including sunscreen and lotions, cause damage to the DNA of breast cells even at low doses.
Diet Soda is Not Good for You
At 3rd Rock Essentials we make the world’s healthiest and most functional personal care products because we want to help the world function better and become healthier.
3rd Rock Lives to Thrive
3rd Rock is road tripping to Portland, Oregon to spread our message of using only food-grade edible ingredients straight from Mother Earth at Thrive: the 13th Annual Nutritional Therapy Association Conference.
CertClean Impressed by Natural Efficacy of 3rd Rock Essentials
3rd Rock Sunblock Sunscreen Lotion has been selected as a finalist for the 2020 Clean Beauty Awards, presented by CertClean.
3rd Rock SunBlock Sunscreen and Our Altruistic Origin Story
We’re all about earth-derived ingredients so safe you can eat ‘em.
Keep 3rd Rockin’ in the Green World
Our natural tonics, ointments, lotions, and sprays help skin, cell, & body thrive—enabling you and your family to live your best beautiful green world life ever.
3rd Rock’s Chelated Silver Oxide Re-Writes Rulebook on Treating Infectious Invaders
3rd Rock Silver Infusion with chelated silver oxide kills bad and infectious invaders before they start—by transforming the surface properties of gum, teeth and mouth membranes to eliminate the teeming growth of clinging yucky stuff.
Get Some 3rd Rock Silver for Your Quiver
3rd Rock’s patented Chelated Silver Oxide is different, unique in the silver world, and the highest quality health-benefit silver out there.
Hey, the 1800’s Called and Wants its Petroleum Jelly Back
Would you put motor oil in your mouth? Or your child’s? Didn’t think so. Throw out the Vaseline petroleum jelly and check out 3rd Rock’s natural alternative, Nutroleum. Our jelly is simple, made from two ingredients we get straight from plants.
3rd Rock Success Stems from Simplicity
3rd Rock is the best, simplest, most natural personal care products. No more stoplights. Only health, flow, and LIFE!
Guerry Grune: Prophet of 3rd Rock
“The artist is kind of a seer and by nature he is optimistic because he believes in the future.”(Roy DeCarava) Cassandra, mythological priestess of Apollo, had the gift of prophecy, to peer into days ahead and tell you if you should invade that empire or court that certain someone. Yet her curse was that no one believed her—and people continued their blind walk down the road of life without the benefit they could so easily have had. Back in 2003, Guerry Grune, founder of 3rd Rock Essentials, patented the world’s healthiest sunscreen—made from natural ingredients rather than chemical compounds—because he did his research, combined it with a razor acumen, and saw the future. Too bad more people outside of Duke University didn’t believe him—and moms and dads kept slabbing on the Big Guys' stuff full of bad things, seeping poison into their children and the Earth along the way. It would take fifteen years until Hawaii began to believe Guerry and, in 2018, because of damage done to their reef ecosystems, the enlightened islands banned Big Guy Sunscreen go-to’s oxybenzone and octinoxate. Key West soon followed. And moms and dads around the country finally are too. Because sunscreen should not mask and harm but protect and nourish. See, 3rd Rock Sunblock was the first and still is the best. We made our prophecy, paved the road—and people and planet are now benefiting from our science of nature. Guerry Grune is the mythological priest of skincare and 3rd Rock is its Mount Olympus. The ancient Greeks should have listened to Cassandra. The modern world needs to listen to Guerry. Grab some sunblock that Cassandra would approve. *Guerry Grune is a PhD Chemical Engineer and registered Patent Agent. with a passion for planet friendly products that promote health and wellness.
Guerry to Present at Lauded Sunscreen Conference
Guerry to present patented formulation. 3rd Rock Essentials founder Guerry Grune will present at the bi-annual Sunscreen Symposium September 12-14th in Orlando, Florida.
3RE Founder Joins The Tiny Fit Diva for 1-on-1 About Non-Toxic Sunscreen - Video/Podcast
In this interview, Guerry Grune, CEO and founder of 3rd Rock Essentials,discusses the breakthrough of 3rd Rock Sunblock Sunscreen Lotion with Kylene Terhune, The Tiny Fit Diva, and why it is different than ALL other mineral and conventional sunscreens.
A Honeybee Evening Out - PeTA Movie Screening of "More Then Honey"
3rd Rock Essentials joined PETA for a fun-filled screening of More Than Honey, an eye-opening documentary about the plight of our insect friends, the honeybees.
3rd Rock Essentials To Discuss Nutrasporin® UTI Trials at AHCA NCAL
3rd Rock Essentials will be discussing their latest innovations in healthcare technologies and solutions specific to: INFECTION CONTROL, WOUND CARE, UTI / INCONTINENCE at AHCA NCAL.
What Makes 3rd Rock America’s Safest Sunscreen?
What Makes 3rd Rock America’s Safest Sunscreen? 3rd Rock Sunblock Lotion SPF 35 is formulated exclusively from food-grade, edible, natural sunscreen ingredients and a whole lot of science (not hype!).
Nutrasporin Prevents UTI’s in Clinical Setting
The results of this trial have been astounding. 90% of patients who have been treated with Nutrasporin are UTI free and have also maintained their mental acuity. Another benefit is the reduced need for these patients to have to use antibiotics. Many women, in non-clinical settings, have also experienced a reduction of UTI’s using Nutrasporin.
Triple Antibiotics Are Not All They are Cracked Up To Be - Nutrasporin
Triple antibiotic creams use mycins and myxins (Neosporin® includes bacitracin,neomycin, and polymyxin B, in a relatively low-molecular-weight patented base of cocoa butter, cottonseed oil, sodium pyruvate, tocopheryl acetate, and petroleum jelly - not something you'd want to put in your mouth or allow your kids to put into theirs.
Silver Infusion 150 - Silver Water
3rd Rock Essentials’ new silver water, Silver Infusion 150, is an immune support supplement. It can be taken daily to naturally support the body’s immune system. Silver Infusion 150PPM is made with our patented chelated silver oxide complex, not colloidal silver. This is the same chelated silver oxide we use in the Rashblock and Nutrasporin®, but at a concentration of 150 ppm.
Skin Care with Food Grade Edible Ingredients
At 3rd Rock Essentials we know that your skin is your largest organ and that you should not be “feeding” your largest organ with anything that you would not take internally. We use only those nourishing components which you would not hesitate to put in your mouth or perhaps more importantly childrens' mouths. Only food-grade. Only edible ingredients.
Benefits of 3rd Rock's Chelated Silver Technology in Nutrasporin
3rd Rock's innovative and patented chelated silver oxide in Nutrasporin contains amino acids and citrates that will stick to and penetrate cell walls.
Glycerin vs Petroleum for Safe Skin Care
At 3rd Rock Essentials we have developed patented alternatives to petroleum-based products by using organic Kosher vegetable glycerin and plant derived food grade edible emulsifiers. This combination differs greatly from any other known alternatives to petroleum jelly. When comparing glycerin vs petroleum, it’s important to note that our glycerin-based products provide superior hydration without the occlusive nature of petroleum jelly. While you may not want to ingest our products, they are safe for children and infants. Our water-resistant products use high altitude beeswax with propolis and in some cases orange peel wax. We know of at least 2 products that are petroleum free jellies and we have reviewed these to give our customers a clear and accurate comparison. Glycerin vs Petroleum: We choose Glycerin 3rd Rock sources our vegetable glycerin from extracts of the palm plant. Due to it's origins, it is soy and gluten free. Glycerin is clear and odorless. It has a number of valuable applications, for which it was selected to suspend the other ingredients, as opposed to water or oil. Glycerin is a humectant, which means that in addition to having the ability to increase the solubility of active ingredients, it also leaves skin hydrated. In order for vegetable glycerin to be used in food applications (food-grade), it must have of USP grade of over 99% pure. It is non-comedogenic, so it will not clog pores. Glycerin vs Petroleum: They choose Petroleum While other companies use petroleum (or an oil emulsion), 3rd Rock chooses glycerin. This choice is crucial when comparing glycerin and petroleum jelly, as glycerin does a better job pulling moisture into the skin, and is better than water or oil at keeping skin care products stable. Glycerin does not require the use of crude-oil or its petroleum by products , so there is no need for extra additives. With the alkaline balance, it also won't go rancid. When making the choice between glycerin vs petroleum, choose Nutroleum. See Nutroleum, petroleum free balms here.
Silver Water for Gut Health
3rd Rock Essentials new “silver water” has been formulated as a health tonic infused with our patented chelated silver oxide complex. At 150 ppm it is at least 10X more concentrated than the most common colloidal silver products on the market.
Endocrine Disruptors - The Real Scoop
Here at 3rd Rock understand that creating hormonal imbalances by using products that contain female mimicking hormones is not a wise decision for men or women. Steer clear of endocrine disruptors with 3rd Rock Essentials.
America’s Safest, Chemical Free Sunscreen
What Makes 3rd Rock America’s Safest Sunscreen? Well, for one thing, Dr. Guerry Grune’s original formula of 3rd Rock Sunblock Lotion SPF 35 is formulated exclusively from food-grade, edible sunscreen ingredients. Consequently, it prevents skin damage caused by both the sun and the toxic synthetic compounds included in along list of ingredients to avoid. Looking for the safest sunscreen? you found it!In fact, unlike any traditional sunblock lotion, 3rd Rock Sunblock SPF 35 offers UVA protection, and it prevents aging, wrinkling, and skin cancer much better than synthetic-based sunscreens. It does so by preventing the nuclear damage to cell DNA that causes cell mutation and, eventually, cancer. The advantage of 3rd Rock Sunblock Lotion SPF 35 is that it blocks UVA and UVB rays, rather than only blocking UVB rays like many standard sunscreens. The safest sunscreen for all ages and skin types. Why We Love It? Not tested on animals Provides UVA and UVB Protection, making it the safest sunscreen Alkaline pH kills cancer cells before they form 100% natural and non-toxic Made entirely with edible sunscreen ingredients Environmentally safe, biodegradable, sustainable, non-synthetic and hypoallergenic Formulated for so no sunscreen ingredients break down SPF 35 3rd Rock Sunscreen Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide (23.5%), Inactive Ingredients: vegetable glycerin, distilled water, simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) oil, olea europaea (olive) fruit oil, L-arginine, aloe barbadensis leaf gel, cera alba (beeswax), citrus aurantium dulcis (orange) peel wax, phosphatidyl choline, boswelia sacra (frankincense) oil, rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) oil, tocopherol, ascorbic acid, zea mays (corn) starch, maranta arundinacea (arrowroot) root extract, xanthan gum, gamma oryzanol, beta glucan. What are the purpose of these ingredients in your sunscreen: xanthan gum, beta glucan, and gamma oryzanol?Gamma oryzanol is rice bran extract which boosts SPF in our product to over 35 and is a strong antioxidant which is used by bodybuilders to increase muscle mass. Xanthan gum is thickening agent that also has cytoprotective properties for skin cells. Beta Glucan is also a very powerful antioxidant which quenches free radicals produced by the UV light from the sun on your skin. Purchase 3rd Rock SunBlock
UVA vs UVB
When it comes to UVA vs UVB, a little change in wavelength goes a long way. A long way into your skin, to the DNA, to damage it.
Most Sunscreens Degrade When Exposed to Sunlight
Most Sunscreens are affected by ultraviolet (UV) sunlight. Most sunscreens degrade when exposed to sunlight. Yep! - You read that correctly. One more time, just in case you missed it... Most sunscreens degrade when you go into the sun! As soon as you go into the sun, the degradation process beings. Even though zinc is the best active ingredient to reduce UV absorption into the skin, when exposed sunlight, organic materials, like zinc, decompose on the skins surface and release free radicals that work to kill cell membranes. The science behind 3rd Rock SunBlock's patented zinc oxide shines! The zinc oxide used in 3rd Rock SunBlock is inorganic and chelated, in other words attached, with another molecule, l-Argenine (an amino acid). With this chelation, the zinc oxide dispersion acquires a superior stability. There is NO breakdown in the presence of UV light and it therefore absorbs UVA better than any other brand. Period. Most sunscreens degrade in the presence of the sun - Not 3rd Rock Sunblock.
Founder of 3rd Rock Sunblock, Dr. Guerry Grune
Meet Guerry Grune. Surfer. PhD. He’s surfed the world’s meccas. Three events led him to create 3rd Rock Sunblock — and change surf and sunscreen history forever.
Nutrasporin Silver Gel Ointment Soothes Burn
Interview with Susan Rankin, Mom of 3, Wife and Nurse, North Carolina on the results achieved with Nutrasporin silver gel. Nutrasporin Silver Gel is a must have for all medicine cabinets.
Does 3rd Rock Use Nano Zinc?
Nano zinc oxide (ZnO) is controversial – we don’t use nano sized ZnO because we are concerned with the potential for absorption into the blood stream through the skin pores.
3rd Rock SunBlock SPF 35 Natural Organic Zinc Oxide Sunscreen
Mineral sunscreens are made with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and generally rate better than their chemical counterparts in terms of safety. 3rd Rock SUnblock zinc oxide sunscreen provides a clean, non-toxic sunscreen you can feel good about.
My Mom...
My Mom... My mother loved the beach. Sadly she passed away earlier this year. The cause - melanoma. She did use "sunscreen", but sunscreen in the 1960-80's tended to be oil to "enhance" tanning. I grew up at the beach along side her, but not until the mid 90's did I consider lotions that actually worked. True, the sunscreens did prevent sunburns for the most part over the past 20 years, BUT I had no idea that the ingredients in most brands contained toxins. So I made the switch to 3rd Rock in 2014 when I first heard about it. Wonderful lotion. Feels terrific, effectively blocks UVA rays and won't cause it's own health issues down the road. I saw first hand, the effects of melanoma on my mom and I will do everything I can to stay safe in the sun from here on.
3rd Rock Nutrasporin Ointment
3rd Rock Nutrasporin Ointment Not to be confused with Neosporin (a triple antibiotic salve present in most first aid kits across North America), 3rd Rock Nutrasporin is a non-toxic and petroleum-free first aid ointment suitable for treating scrapes, burns, rashes, infections, stings, bites, cold sores and other skin irritations in no time. Its secret? Once again: Chelated silver oxide. According to Dr. Grune, bacteria (like mold and mildew) need three things to grow: water, food, and a substrate (a surface to which microbes can attach themselves). If one of these components is not present, bacteria can no longer thrive. Silver oxide eliminates the substrate, thereby getting rid of the bad bacteria without upsetting the ones that maintain your immune system. I have been using this natural antibiotic-free ointment on a small incision area I got from a minor surgery on my leg a few weeks back. According to my physician, it is in a difficult-to-heal area (just above my inner ankle) that seemed to not be getting any better. However, after applying 3rd Rock Nutrasporin a couple of times a day for several days, I am finally noticing that my wound is starting to heal.
All Natural, Petroleum-Free Balm
All Natural, Petroleum-Free Balm Nutroleum™ "green" jelly, is an oil-free, all natural alternative to petroleum jelly-which makes it great for using as a lip balm, treating dry skin, or any other application where you currently use petroleum jelly. Made with food grade edible ingredients only, it doesn't contain any harmful chemicals or oil. Nutroleum™ is lightweight and non-greasy, so it goes on effortlessly. Available in water soluble and water resistant.
3rd Rock Itch Block
3rd Rock Itch Block This soothing and calming cream relieves itchy and irritated skin affected by bug bites, poison ivy and more. It is the perfect companion for active outdoor lifestyles and safe for all ages since it is free of toxins and food-grade edible. It contains Dr. Grune’s patented silver biopolymer (a chelated silver oxide formula) which, unlike colloidal silver oxide products, remains active for up to two and a half hours after it is applied to the skin. This lightweight and non-greasy formula works effectively on dry spots and mosquito bites. I have also recently used it on my kids who developed a minor rash caused by too much chlorine and chafing from their bathing suits, and it provided instant relief.
Mineral vs Chemical Sunscreen
A discussion and chart explaining the differences between mineral sunscreen and chemical sunscreen is provided.
When the Shirt Comes Off... A Surfer's Notes on Sunscreen
For surfers and outdoor enthusiasts, sun exposure is part of the lifestyle. Hours spent in direct sunlight, combined with the reflection off the water, can be incredibly harsh on skin. Whether you’re surfing, paddle-boarding, fishing, hiking, or simply spending the day outside, reliable sun protection matters.
UTI Prevention with Nutrasporin
UTI Prevention with Silver How does Nutrasporin's silver complex prevent bacterial replication? 3rd Rock Essentials chelated silver oxide in Nutrasporin is chelated (chemically bonded) with glycolic acid - an amino acid that bonds with the silver oxide and causes the product to be both bioavailable and bioactive. Other silver oxides are atomic silver oxide particles and usually in the form of colloidal particles (see Sovereign Silver). These particles can pass through the cells but do not attach to the cell walls and "stick" because they are not bioactive or bioavailable.This "sticking" allows for the silver ions in Nutrasporin to be more effective by orders of magnitude because of the contact time they have with the cells. Invaded cells therefore have more contact time with the anti-invasion capabilities of the silver ions and can "heal themselves" in this fashion. Colloidal silver is more like Vitamin "C" in that it has antibacterial and antimicrobial activity but it "washes through" the cells and the system much more rapidly and has much less "sticking" capabilities. Topical application of Nutrasporin can provide effective UTI prevention. UTI prevention can be quick, easy, and most importantly, private. Nutrasporin is UTI prevention's best kept secret. A secret we are willing to share.
Sunscreen
What is non-nano sunscreen? What are endocrine disruptors?, and why are they in my sunscreen? Find out why all of 3rd Rock Essentials' products are 100% all natural and non toxic. This means our formula is as gentle to the environment as it is to your skin.
What's Really in Your Sunscreen?
What's Really in Your Sunscreen? Most people apply sunscreen every day without ever turning the bottle over to read the ingredient list. The truth is, not all sunscreens are created equally.
Why Triple Antibiotics are not all they are cracked up to be
Triple antibiotic creams use mycins and myxins in a base of petroleum jelly - not something you'd want to put in your mouth or allow your kids to put into theirs. There is a food-grade alternative, Nutrasporin.
Nutrasporin to the Rescue, My Son’s 2nd Degree Burn
I found Nutrasporin from 3rd Rock earlier this year when the product launched. I was attracted to it because of its natural ingredients and wellness properties. Works great!
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3rd Rock Nerd Nook
Deep-dive science articles for the curious minds
FDA Approves First New Sunscreen Active in Decades: Innovation or Reinforcement of an Aging Chemical Paradigm?
The first new sunscreen active added to the U.S. OTC monograph in more than 25 years. Bemotrizinol belongs to the same chemical sunscreen philosophy that has dominated the market for decade. This "new" active is not actually new, just new to use in the USA. Therefore, this approval represents an evolution—not a revolution, as Europe has been using it for over 25 years, with no marked decline in rising skin cancer rates.
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SPF, UVA & UVB: The Science Behind the Green Line
When shopping for sunscreen, most people look at one thing first: the SPF number. SPF 15, SPF 30, SPF 50—higher must be better, right? Not necessarily.
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FDA Facts on CGMP: Why Manufacturing Standards Matter for Product Quality
Understanding FDA facts on CGMP helps consumers recognize why manufacturing standards matter for product quality, consistency, and safety. Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMP), regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, establish strict requirements for manufacturing processes, facility controls, employee training, and quality systems designed to help ensure products are produced under reliable and sanitary conditions.
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3rd Rock Sunblock Checks All the Reef Safe Boxes
The 3rd Rock (Earth) is going through some changes. One of the changes that stands out is the increasing rate of coral bleaching and coral reef death. Much of this is due to chemicals added to the water from swimmers, divers, those snorkeling, or others just floating. These chemicals come from products that we use daily which have ingredients that are not reef safe. When your skin touches the water, many of the hundreds of chemicals in personal care products, cosmetics, and sunscreens a person has applied wash off into the water. It is unfortunate that sunscreen products, used to keep you at the beach and in the water, are not only made with harmful chemical ingredients, but products that degrade into even more harmful chemicals. (Remember the benzene?) These ingredients are NOT Reef Safe. Because of their beauty and unique, plentiful ocean-life, coral reefs attract people that swim slowly over the reef to gaze in awe.... while depositing harmful chemicals over them. Add in other types of pollution, and the reefs greatly suffer. This is not reef safe behavior. Surfrider Foundation came out with a great article in May about what to look for in sunscreens that actually work, that are healthy for your body, and that are good for ocean life (reef safe). 3rd Rock Essentials Sunscreen checks ALL of these boxes! We are more than reef safe... WE FEED THE REEF! *3rd Rock Sunblock is approved for use on any beach in any part of the world.Our non-toxic ingredients have been selected with reef-safe in mind. And then we took it a step further... Our ingredients FEED THE REEF. Instead of depositing chemicals and their degradation products as you swim, the ingredients in 3rd Rock Sunblock Sunscreen Lotion deposit minerals and foods for the reef. Click HERE to read the article.
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