Is it ever a good idea to skip sunscreens? The answer is a resounding no.

We are all too familiar with the risks of skin cancer, including the deadly melanoma, as well as photo-aging and hyperpigmentation caused by excessive sun exposure, so we do need sunscreens. While sunlight can provide a sense of well-being, decrease appetite, improve libido, and assist with vitamin D synthesis, it is impossible to tan without damaging skin cells, accelerating aging, and increasing the risk of skin cancer.

As we enter 2023, let’s revisit some of the controversies surrounding sunscreen use and explore new innovations and considerations.

Due to conflicting information in the media, many people are unsure about whether they should wear sunscreen and which products to choose, leading them to skip sunscreen altogether. However, it is essential to understand that overwhelming scientific evidence shows that excessive sun exposure causes skin cancer, and sun protection methods, including sunscreen, can prevent it. Recent studies estimate that current sunscreen recommendations have decreased the incidence of skin cancer by 10-15% in Australia.

Production of Vitamin D

One of the biggest controversies surrounding sunscreen use is the concern about Vitamin D deficiency. While some studies have suggested that sunscreen can decrease the production of Vitamin D, a review article published in the British Journal of Dermatology concluded that there is not enough evidence to support this claim. The original study that suggested a link between sunscreen use and decreased Vitamin D production was conducted with an artificial light source, which is not the same as natural sunlight. Subsequent studies done under real-life circumstances could not prove a decrease in Vitamin D production with sunscreen use.

However, it is important to note that sunscreen does not completely block exposure to sunlight. To get maximum sun protection, one needs to apply a significant amount of sunscreen and reapply it every 2-4 hours. Most people do not use enough sunscreen, and some studies suggest that there is still enough UV radiation exposure to produce adequate Vitamin D even while using sunscreen.

It is also worth noting that some people may not produce enough Vitamin D even with significant sun exposure, while others with minimal sun exposure may have normal Vitamin D levels. This suggests that there are other factors that influence Vitamin D synthesis.

Ultimately, it is possible to obtain enough Vitamin D from oral supplements and diet without exposing oneself to an increased risk of skin cancer. Therefore, concerns about the impact of sunscreen on Vitamin D production should not be a reason to avoid using sunscreen to protect oneself from the harmful effects of excessive sun exposure.

The Environmental Impact of Sunscreens

The impact of sunscreen on the environment has become a controversial topic due to the accumulation of UV filters like oxybenzone, camphor derivatives, octocrylene, and octinoxate in water sources worldwide. These chemicals have been linked to coral reef bleaching and are difficult to remove through conventional water treatment methods. Some US states have even banned these ingredients in sunscreen products. However, it should be noted that the concentrations used in the study that reported the harmful effects on coral reefs were much higher than those found in even the busiest beaches.

This issue has prompted sunscreen manufacturers to seek alternative ingredients in their formulations, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are physical or mineral blockers that are recommended for sensitive skin and children. Despite these concerns, a blanket boycott of all sunscreens is not warranted.

The Relationship Between Sunscreen and Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia

There has been controversy surrounding the use of physical blockers or mineral sunscreens due to their alleged link to frontal fibrosing alopecia. This condition results in hair loss and a receding hairline due to progressive fibrosis of the hair follicles of the frontal hairline. Some studies have found small quantities of titanium, which is present in titanium dioxide containing mineral sunscreens, in the hair shafts of patients with frontal fibrosing alopecia. However, there is currently no conclusive proof that the use of sunscreens is the actual cause of this condition.

The Safety of Sunscreen: Is Oxybenzone an Endocrine Disrupter?

There has been growing concern over the safety of oxybenzone, a common ingredient in many sunscreens. Studies have shown that oxybenzone can act as an endocrine disrupter, affecting the endocrine systems of rats and fish. However, it is important to note that for oxybenzone to pose a danger to humans, an unrealistically large amount would need to be applied to the skin for decades.

It is reassuring to know that there have been no proven significant negative effects from oxybenzone in humans. It is still recommended to use sunscreen as protection against skin damage from excessive sun exposure, but for those who are concerned about the potential risks associated with oxybenzone, there are alternatives available, such as physical or mineral sunscreens that do not contain this ingredient.

Is a Higher SPF Better for Sun Protection?

When it comes to sun protection, the SPF rating on a sunscreen product has long been a subject of debate. SPF or Sun Protection Factor measures the protection provided against UVB rays. An SPF of 30, for example, indicates that you can stay in the sun 30 times longer without burning than you could without sunscreen.

However, this measure is tested in a controlled environment that does not account for real-life factors like sweat, environmental conditions, or differences in how people apply sunscreen. In reality, people often apply sunscreen unevenly and in insufficient amounts.

Studies have found that individuals apply sunscreen at around 0.5mg per square centimetre, which is less than a quarter of the recommended 2mg per square centimetre. This means that even if you use a sunscreen with a higher SPF, if you do not apply it adequately, you are not getting the level of protection stated on the label.

That said, a recent study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that realistic use of higher SPF sunscreens of 70 or above could provide sufficient protection against skin cancer and photoaging.

It is important to note that although the difference between an SPF 15, 30, and 50 may seem small (93.3%, 96.7%, and 98.3% protection against UVB, respectively), the percentage of UVB that reaches your skin is what matters. SPF 15 allows 6.7% of UVB to reach your skin, while SPF 50 allows only 1.7%, which is a significant difference.

In conclusion, while a higher SPF sunscreen can provide better protection, it is crucial to apply it adequately and reapply it regularly, regardless of the SPF rating.

The Benefits of Tinted Sunscreen

Tinted sunscreens offer additional benefits beyond conventional broad spectrum sunscreens. They contain light reflectors that protect against visible light, which can cause erythema in light-skinned individuals and hyperpigmentation in dark-skinned individuals. Although broad spectrum sunscreens can protect against UV rays, they don’t offer any protection against visible light.

To protect against visible light, a sunscreen must be opaque and visible on the skin. Nanotechnology has enabled the development of physical sunscreens with smaller particle sizes of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are less visible on the skin. However, these fine particles cannot reflect visible light.

Tinted sunscreens offer a solution by containing shades of iron oxide and titanium dioxide that can blend with different skin tones while also reflecting visible light. This makes them effective in protecting against disorders of hyperpigmentation such as melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and lichen planus pigmentosus.

Additionally, iron oxide pigment can be found in tinted powder or brush on sunscreens, which can be conveniently reapplied during the day. Overall, using tinted sunscreen can provide additional protection and benefits beyond conventional sunscreens.

Also read: How Stress Affects the Skin

Treating Early Skin Cancer with Sunscreens: The Latest Research

Using the latest research in sunscreen technology, a new generation of “active sunscreens” containing DNA repair enzymes have been developed. These sunscreens have a very high SPF and have the potential to treat early skin cancer (not melanoma) rather than just prevent it like regular sunscreens. Skin cells have their own mechanisms to repair DNA damage caused by UVR, but excessive sun exposure can overwhelm these mechanisms, leading to permanent DNA mutations that cause skin cancer and photoaging. Scientific studies have shown that sunscreens containing photolyase and endonuclease can enhance the DNA repair mechanisms in damaged skin cells and reduce the lesions of early skin cancer in sun-damaged skin. These novel sunscreens may also protect against photoaging and prevent the breakdown of collagen in the dermis by decreasing the enzyme matrix metalloproteinase.

The world of sunscreen technology and skin cancer prevention is constantly evolving. Although concerns about the safety of certain sunscreen ingredients have arisen, scientific advancements continue to bring forth new solutions to address these challenges.

Despite these developments, sunscreens still remain our best line of defense against skin cancer and premature skin aging.

As the warm rays of the sun beckon us outdoors, it’s essential to remember that while sunshine can be enjoyable, it also poses potential risks to our skin. Prolonged exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer. This is where sunscreens step in as our skin’s best defense. In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of sunscreens and why incorporating them into your daily routine is a wise choice for maintaining healthy skin.

1. Protection from Harmful UV Rays

The sun emits two types of harmful UV rays that reach the Earth’s surface: UVA and UVB.

• UVA rays are associated with skin aging and can penetrate deep into the skin, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots.
• UVB rays are primarily responsible for causing sunburn and can damage the superficial layers of the skin.

Sunscreens provide a protective barrier against both UVA and UVB rays, reducing the risk of skin damage and associated health concerns.

2. Prevention of Sunburn

Sunburn is not only painful but also a sign of skin damage. Sunscreens with a high sun protection factor (SPF) can prevent sunburn by blocking the UVB rays that cause it. Applying sunscreen before going outdoors helps maintain the integrity of your skin, preventing the discomfort of sunburn.

3. Reduction of Skin Cancer Risk

One of the most compelling reasons to use sunscreen regularly is its role in reducing the risk of skin cancer. Prolonged and unprotected exposure to the sun increases the chances of developing skin cancer, particularly melanoma, which is the deadliest form of skin cancer.

By applying sunscreen, you create a protective shield that significantly reduces your skin’s exposure to harmful UV radiation. This reduction in UV exposure can lower the risk of skin cancer over time.

4. Prevention of Premature Aging

The sun’s UV rays can accelerate the aging process of the skin, leading to premature wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. Regular use of sunscreen helps preserve the youthful appearance of your skin by minimizing UV-induced damage.

5. Maintenance of Skin Health

Healthy skin is more than just cosmetic; it’s a reflection of your overall well-being. Sunscreens contribute to skin health by safeguarding it from external aggressors. They help maintain the skin’s moisture balance, prevent dryness, and protect against oxidative stress caused by UV rays.

6. Versatility and Convenience

Sunscreens come in various forms, including lotions, creams, gels, and sprays. Some cosmetics and moisturizers also contain SPF, making it easy to incorporate sun protection into your daily skincare routine. With options for every skin type and preference, there’s no excuse to skip this essential step.

7. Suitable for All Ages

Sunscreens are safe and effective for people of all ages, from infants to seniors. Protecting the skin from an early age helps establish healthy sun protection habits that can last a lifetime.

Conclusion

The importance of sunscreens cannot be overstated when it comes to safeguarding your skin’s health and beauty. From preventing sunburn and premature aging to reducing the risk of skin cancer, sunscreens are a vital tool in your skincare arsenal. Make sunscreen application a daily habit, even on cloudy days, and reapply as needed, especially if you’re spending extended periods outdoors. With proper sun protection, you can enjoy the sun’s benefits while keeping your skin safe and radiant for years to come.