Skincare Dilemma: Sunscreen Safety, a Summer Skin Care Debate
Skincare-News. com discusses the recent debate about whether sunscreens can actually be harmful to the skin.
Sacramento, CA (PRWEB) May 26, 2008
With temperatures rising and summer rapidly approaching, people are heading to the beach armed with the essentials--a hat, sunglasses and of course, sunscreen! But recent controversy has disrupted several decades of sun safety awareness. Skincare-News. com's latest article, "Is Your Sunscreen Safe?" questions whether we should ditch the sunscreen and head outdoors without any sun protection or continue to follow what's been drummed into our heads.
Http://www. skincare-news. com/articles. php? ArtID=590 (http://www. skincare-news. com/articles. php? ArtID=590)
D for deficiency
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 result in a sufficient amount of vitamin D.
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 a 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.
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 every sunscreen helps stop sunburns, not all of them will offer enough protection from UVA rays.
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, its important to 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!
Skincare-News. com covers all skincare and beauty topics from head to toe. Check out these latest articles:
Green Tea Extract
Http://www. skincare-news. com/articles. php? ArtID=587 (http://www. skincare-news. com/articles. php? ArtID=587)
Anti-aging formulas, such as serums and lotions, are the most common products that take advantage of green tea's antioxidant benefits. Known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties, green tea extract is also 20 times more antioxidant powerful than vitamin C and provides superior protection from free radical damage," dermatologist Fredric Brandt tells iParenting. This defense against free radicals is especially important for sun protection. "Studies have shown that a product containing at least 5 percent green tea extract may help prevent skin cancer when applied before sun exposure along with sunscreen," according to Real Simple So what makes green tea so successful at healing the body?
Coping with Rosacea
Http://www. skincare-news. com/articles. php? ArtID=581 (http://www. skincare-news. com/articles. php? ArtID=581)
Rosacea is skin disorder, characterized by persistent, red flush or acne-like breakouts on the cheeks, nose, mouth and forehead. In many cases, rosacea can cause the skin to become extremely sensitive to topical agents such as lotions or skin treatments, which can leave the skin burning or stinging. Other common side effects of rosacea include soreness, irritation or a swelling of the eyelids, which can result in blurred vision. Rosacea sufferers often have dry skin, yet may think the skin is oily due to the small bumps which can accompany this condition and resemble blemishes.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids
Http://www. skincare-news. com/articles. php? Page=4 (http://www. skincare-news. com/articles. php? Page=4)
Alpha hydroxy acids or AHAs are natural acids derived from fruit, milk or sugar cane, which dissolve dead skin cells and allow fresh, healthy cells to emerge. With so many kinds of AHAs, including glycolic, lactic, citric, mandelic and malic acids, the degree of exfoliation depends on the particular acid and its pH level. Because of their ability to boost cell regeneration, AHAs are used for everything from fine lines and wrinkles to acne and age spots. Dermatologists and other skin care professionals use higher doses of up to 70 percent for chemical peels.
The Beauty of Natural Lashes
Http://www. skincare-news. com/articles. php? Page=5 (http://www. skincare-news. com/articles. php? Page=5)
When it comes to makeup, there are dozens of ways to accentuate natural beauty, but nothing completes the whole picture quite like long, healthy lashes. Fortunately, there are a wide range of products designed to keep those eyelashes batting and maintain their beauty for years to come. Skin care is more than just applying creams and serums--it's maintenance, as well.
About SkinCare-News. com -- "Your Source for Intelligent Skin Care"
Skincare-News. com is the online source for consumers seeking intelligent beauty and skin care news, advice, tips and articles. Founded in 2005, SkinCare-News. com features articles, news items and frequently asked questions on skincare and beauty related issues. SkinCare-News. com is located in Sacramento, California, but receives visitors from all around the world. For more information, visit http://www. skincare-news. com (http://www. skincare-news. com).
# # #
