Sun Safety - What You Don't Know Can Hurt You

Sun Safety Research

When you head outdoors, do you practice sun safety? Do you apply a sun screen daily, even when it’s cloudy?

Well, you may be doing your skin more harm than good.

Recent anti-aging research suggests that many commercial, chemical-based sun screens might actually cause damage to the skin.

A study by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) found that out of 785 sun screens analyzed -- a staggering 84% -- contained ingredients with safety concerns or did not provide adequate protection from the sun’s ultraviolet rays!

Could your sunscreen actually promote skin cancer? Are Sunblock chemicals Safe? 

Some scientists have recently started asking this same question –how safe are sun screen products?

They have discovered that certain chemicals, found in many popular sun screen products, may change estrogen levels in the body and generate large amounts of free radicals – thus affecting DNA, causing cell damage, and even cancer. 

Drs. Cedric and Frank Garland, of the University of California, are completely against the use of chemical sunscreens.

They state that although there is some evidence that sun screens help prevent squamous cell carcinoma, there is no scientific proof that they protect against basal cell carcinoma or melanoma.

They also question the results from an international study which found the largest increase in melanoma cases happen to be in countries where chemical sun screens are most heavily promoted!

Queensland, Australia is a good example of this fact. Here the medical community has strongly advocated the use of sun screens. Yet, they have the highest number of melanoma cases per capita than any other location.

In addition, the Garland brothers discovered that throughout the world, the largest increase in melanoma cases were in countries where the use of chemical based sun screens were most vigorously promoted.

Which Chemicals Are Suspected :

They have identified the following sun screen chemicals as being harmful:

• benzophenone-3
• 4-MBC (4-methyl-benzylidene camphor)
• PABA
• octyl-methoxycinnamate (OMC)
• homosalate

While these five chemicals are considered the best when it comes to sun safety and skin protection, the most common chemical used, OMC, is responsible for killing off mouse cells, when applied at lowest doses.

Should You Stop Using Sun Screens?

No! Just choose safer products that are free from harmful chemicals, but is still a powerful broad-spectrum protector.

I hate sunscreens and the way the feel. But the one I use now is great. It's natural, chemical free, and treats discoloration and acne vitamin B3 (niacinamide).

I tend to freckle and develop brown spots quickly, so this one is my favorite.

While it's great for all skin types, it's especially effective for those suffering from hyperpigmentation  (red/brown/age skin spots) and acne. Even helps reduce redness.

Plus, it’s very affordable and falls within the safety guidelines proposed by EWG. Click Here.

Want more sun product choices? Click here to see a list of Safe Sunscreens.

Stay Posted On Sun Sunscreen Updates

Obviously, there are still of questions that remain unanswered on the safety of sun screens. As new research emerges, I’ll keep you posted on the Wrinkle Free Skin Blog.......so don’t forget to sign-up.

Additional Reading

Sunscreen Facts - Learn the truth about sunscreens, how they work and more.

Sunscreen Allergies Sunscreen allergies can happen to anybody - learn more here.

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