With increasing temperatures comes increasing spirits and… increasing sun burns! How to protect ourselves from that magnificent force that causes such joy and anguish (especially for the fair skinned)? With news of rising rates of skin cancer, most of us have been reaching for the strongest sunscreens available, but protection from the sun does not come without risks.
Understanding UV Rays: How Sun Exposure Impacts Your Skin and Health
Knowing the high chemical content of most commercial sunscreens leaves many of us searching for healthier alternatives that will protect our skin from the damaging effects of the sun’s UV rays. How do ultraviolet rays affect our health? First, we need to distinguish the three types: UV-A rays (A is for aging), rays are the most insidious, these are the culprits for damage to skin even on cloudy days. While these rays do not cause burns, UV-A damages our collagen (which keeps our skin firm and toned) and destroys the vitamin A in our skin, leading to wrinkles and weakness. As well, over the long term, UV-A contributes to damage to our DNA by causing oxidative damage (so get your antioxidants, people!)
Exposure to UV-B rays (B is for burning) causes sunburn and the risks of exposure increase with our thinning ozone layer. Our body reacts to UV-B by increasing the amount of melanin, a brown pigment which acts like an ‘umbrella’, shading our DNA and producing a tan. But usually, we tan after we have burned and direct damage to our DNA from UV-B can cause cancer. UV-C rays (C is for cancer) are the most harmful of all UV rays, but luckily, our ozone layer prevents these sun rays from getting to us.
A good option to protect yourself from the sun is to cover up with light clothing made from natural materials, & allow yourself to tan, which is the body’s natural defense against the sun.
The sunscreen controversy:
In 2000, the International Journal of Cancer published a study that showed an increase in malignant melanoma (a rare and deadly form of skin cancer) amongst sunscreen users. This led to further studies on the harmful effects of the specific chemical ingredients of most commercial sunscreens. Researchers found that three ingredients, octocrylene, octylmethoxycinnamate and benzophenone-3, when absorbed, increase free radicals and reactive oxygen species, causing significant oxidative damage and, in some, cancer.
UV Types | Description |
|---|---|
UV-A (Aging) | Penetrates deeply, causes aging, destroys Vitamin A, leads to wrinkles and DNA damage |
UV-B (Burning) | Causes sunburn, increases with ozone thinning, directly damages DNA and may cause cancer |
UV-C (Cancer) | Most dangerous, but blocked by the ozone layer |
Potential Risks of Sunscreen Chemicals: Hormonal Disruption and Vitamin D Deficiency
Not only do the chemicals in sunscreen contribute to oxidative damage to our skin, but research is also starting to reveal the potential estrogenic effects of some chemicals used. These chemicals mimic estrogen in the body and have the potential to significantly disrupt our endocrine systems, leading to fertility concerns, thyroid imbalances, troublesome metabolism and increased risk of hormone-sensitive cancers.
There is also some concern that diligent use of sunscreen is contributing to Vitamin D deficiency, which leaves us at risk for developing chronic degenerative diseases such as osteoporosis and autoimmune conditions such as multiple sclerosis.
With news of rising rates of skin cancer, most of us have been reaching for the strongest sunscreens available, but protection from the sun does not come without risks
Safer Sun Protection: Mineral Sunscreens and Practical Tips for Healthy Sun Exposure
While sunscreen does seem to protect against squamous cell and basal cell carcinomas, two forms of skin cancer (not as lethal as malignant melanoma), the other health hazards seem hardly worth the risk. As well, most commercial sunscreens fail to protect us against UV-A rays at all. So, what do you do to protect yourselves and your children?
Well, the absolute best option is to cover up with light clothing made from natural materials, and allow yourself to tan, which is the body’s natural defense against the sun. But this is not always practical. Alternatively, sunscreens that contain minerals, such as titanium oxide and zinc oxide, are guaranteed to protect against both UV-B and UV-A and currently seem to be safer choices than the chemical commercial sunscreens. So with a little common sense and ‘healthier’ alternatives, enjoy your summer!
Why Choose Aspire Natural Health
Ready to protect your skin naturally and safely this summer? Book a consultation with Aspire Natural Health today and get expert advice on choosing the healthiest sun protection strategies for you and your family.
- Learn about the safest mineral sunscreens and holistic sun safety tips
- Get personalized recommendations for your skin type and lifestyle
- Support your skin health with evidence-based, natural solutions
Take charge of your sun safety—schedule your appointment with Aspire Natural Health now!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
1. What are the differences between UVA, UVB and UVC rays?
UVA rays penetrate deeply and cause skin aging and DNA damage; UVB rays are responsible for sunburns and also contribute to skin cancer; UVC rays are the most dangerous but are completely absorbed by the ozone layer and do not reach the earth’s surface.
2. Are chemical sunscreens safe to use?
Some chemical sunscreen ingredients, like oxybenzone and octinoxate, have been linked to hormonal disruption and skin allergies. Under UV exposure, certain chemicals can also generate free radicals that may contribute to cell damage and premature aging. Mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) are generally considered safer and provide broad spectrum protection.
3. Can sunscreen use lead to vitamin D deficiency?
Frequent and diligent sunscreen use may reduce the skin’s ability to produce vitamin D, potentially increasing the risk for conditions like osteoporosis and autoimmune diseases. However, some sun exposure is needed for vitamin D synthesis, so balance is important.
4. How often should sunscreen be reapplied for effective protection?
Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, and after swimming, sweating, or towel drying. Most people do not use enough sunscreen for full protection, so using the correct amount and reapplying regularly is crucial.
5. What are the best ways to protect against sun damage besides sunscreen?
Wearing protective clothing, wide brimmed hats and sunglasses, seeking shade during peak sun hours and using mineral sunscreens are all effective strategies. Covering up and limiting direct sun exposure are the best ways to reduce risk.
Conclusion
Protecting your skin from sun damage is essential, but not all sunscreens and sun protection strategies are created equal. While chemical sunscreens may pose risks such as hormonal disruption and possible vitamin D deficiency, mineral sunscreens offer a safer alternative with broad spectrum protection. The most effective sun safety routine combines mineral sunscreen, protective clothing and smart sun habits. Remember, moderation and balance are key enjoy the sun responsibly to maintain both skin health and overall wellness.
