D for deficiency

Why is sunscreen suddenly taking so much heat? Some studies have attributed increasing cancer rates to a culture of sun avoidance; avoidance which reduces the production of vitamin D, believed to prevent breast, colon and prostrate cancers and known for improving bone health and boosting the immune system. According to Natural News, while sunscreen may block the sun's harmful rays, it also hinders the production of vitamin D, an essential nutrient required by our bodies to fight off various diseases as well as a nutrient that can't be produced without unprotected exposure to UV rays — the very thing believed to cause all sorts of health issues.

Although we've heeded warnings about the destructive effects of ultraviolet rays, research over the past decade has proposed that UV exposure isn't entirely harmful. Turns out, decades of carefully blocking the skin from sunlight might've actually deprived the body of an essential vitamin.

Unlike other vitamins, most of the vitamin D used by the body is derived from exposure to sunlight rather than food. Today, some scientists encourage us to strike a balance between obtaining enough vitamin D through sun exposure, whereas many dermatologists say it's safer to stay out of the sun and obtain vitamin D by consuming certain foods or supplements.

Although these two differing mindsets might seem confusing, as always — a best bet is to practice moderation. Spend 10 to 15 minute intervals in the sunlight several times a week. Bear in mind that darker skin tones may require more exposure to get the full benefit of the sun's rays, and — all unprotected sun exposure counts including driving or sitting near to a window. Sensible sun exposure—combined with eating foods rich in vitamin D—will give you a sufficient amount of vitamin D to maintain good health.

Investigate ingredients

Some research suggests that certain ingredients in sunscreen might be carcinogenic. Common sunblock ingredients such as: diethanolamine (DEA), triethanolamine (TEA), octyl dimethyl PABA, benzophenone, oxybenzone, homosalate, salicylates and parabens have been named as possible carcinogens.

The chemical ingredient benzophenone, and its derivatives oxybenzone or benzophenone-3, are common ingredients used in sunscreens to protect against UVA and UVB rays. But when exposed to ultraviolet light, benzophenone creates damaging free radicals, which in turn might cause melanoma or other skin-related cancers.

Another problem ingredient is triethanolamine (TEA), which merges with a preservative called nitrite and forms nitrosamines, also known to cause cancer. Unfortunately, nitrite isn't divulged on many cosmetic labels, making it difficult to find out if your sunscreen contains it or not.

Also, specific ingredients in topical chemical sunscreens, including up to 35 percent of TEA applied to skin, often seep into the bloodstream, bringing about skin irritation, rashes and in worst case scenarios, skin cancer—the disease we actually hope to avoid with frequent, regular use of sunscreen.

Although these reports are alarming, safer sunscreens do exist. Many researchers continue to support the use of sunscreen, but now advocate using physical instead of chemical formulations. Chemical sunscreens are made with active ingredients like benzophenone designed to absorb ultraviolet rays. Physical sunscreens are composed of minerals such as titanium dioxide, zinc oxide or talc to reflect, rather than absorb ultraviolet rays and pose less health risks. Try SkinCeuticals Physical UV Defense SPF 30, a lightweight, fragrance-free sunscreen, or DDF Daily Organic SPF 15, which contains 11 antioxidants for free radical protection.

The sunscreen stickler

Plenty of evidence proves that sunscreen prevents two major types of skin cancer — basal cell and squamous cell — by blocking UVB rays, which causes sunburn. But many sunscreens don't defend against harmful UVA rays, which penetrate the skin and ultimately cause malignant melanoma, the more unusual but often fatal skin cancer. While your sunscreen may put a stop to sunburns, it might not offer enough protection from UVA rays. Consider skyn ICELAND SPF 18 Mineral Sunscreen which absorbs quickly, guards against both UVA and UVB rays and uses a mineral-based formula.

Sunscreen has also been accused of providing a false sense of security. Don’t forget that slathering on layers of sunscreen doesn’t allow for basking unprotected in the sun for extended periods of time or disregard other protective measures, like clothing or hats.

Although the debate over sunscreen continues to simmer to this day, you should always exercise smart sun practices: avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., employ an umbrella when on the beach and wear sunglasses. In the meantime, stay informed and enjoy the summer!