It is a very well-known fact that everyone who is exposed to the sun should always apply a good sunscreen to avoid sunburn. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States according to the United States Cancer Statistics (USCS).
Why Wear Sunscreen?
About 90% of melanomas, which is a very dangerous form of skin cancer, are caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. Ultraviolet rays are invisible beams of radiation emitted from the sun, tanning beds, and sunlamps. They can penetrate the skin and change skin cells so that cancer begins to form.
The best ways to avoid skin cancer are to stay in the shade as much as possible, wear protective clothing and a hat, wear sunglasses, and use sunscreen. Sunscreen protects the skin from harmful UV rays that can penetrate the skin on cloudy days as well as bright, sunny days. Many people feel protected on cloudy days but these powerful rays of radiation can penetrate the clouds easily, causing sunburn and worse.
Sunscreen is effective because it absorbs, reflects, and scatters the sunlight away from the skin. Reapplying sunscreen after two hours in the sun, or more often around and in water, is essential.
Sunscreen Chemicals to Avoid
Unfortunately, some sunscreens contain harmful chemicals which should be avoided. Knowing which chemicals are harmful is important when choosing a good quality product.
One ingredient that should definitely be avoided is oxybenzone, which has been linked to allergies, hormone disruption, and cell damage. It is also believed to contribute to low birth weight in baby girls. It is a powerful chemical that enhances other chemicals to penetrate the skin.
Oxybenzone can penetrate the delicate layers of the skin and find its way into the bloodstream. About 9% of each dose applied finds its way into the bloodstream. This affects the body in many ways and it can be especially problematic on hormones.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, more than 97% of Americans tested over the age of six years had some oxybenzone in their bodies. There are hundreds of sunscreen products, lip balms, and lipsticks on the market that contain this harmful chemical so read labels carefully.
Healthier Active Ingredients in Sunscreen
There are some active ingredients that are more highly recommended than others and that are approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA). They are effective for sun protection without the harmful risks of oxybenzone. Two of the most effective and least harmful are:
- Zinc oxide – Look for about 5-6% contained in the product.
- Avobenzone with octocrylene – This combination of chemicals makes it safer and the product should contain about 2-3% avobenzone and 10% octocrylene.
Choose sunscreens that contain these ingredients for the safest alternatives.
Tips for Reducing Risk of Skin Cancer
Spending time in the sun can be healthy when you take proper precautions. Soaking up important vitamin D is just one advantage of sun exposure. When planning to spend time in the sun, remember these important tips:
- Always apply a sunscreen – sunscreen with some chemicals is healthier than no sunscreen at all.
- Reapply sunscreen frequently when in or around water.
- Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours when spending time outdoors.
- Apply sunscreen year-round and not just in the summer months.
- Remember to cover the face, ears, and neck when applying sunscreen.
- Wear a lip balm with sun protection.
- Avoid sun products that contain oxybenzone.
- Wear a hat and protective clothing when exposed to the sun.
- Suntanning beds can be just as harmful as the sun so avoid them too.
Don't take chances by ignoring the importance of using a good quality sunscreen. Choose products that are healthiest for the skin and body. Taking the best possible care of your skin and health today will make you look and feel better for years to come.
Lather up, put on your hat, and enjoy being outdoors today.
Sources:
United States Cancer Statistics (USCS)
Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
Rhonda Day - With over 25 years of experience in the Corporate world with responsibility for creation of business plans, mission statements, marketing ...
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