Keep skin healthy and protected
The snow is finally melting, the sun is shining more, and you’re already thinking about summertime. So as you grab your flip-flops and goggles, be sure to pack your sunscreen, too.
About one in five Americans develops skin cancer, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. But it is a highly preventable disease.
The oxides to eyeball
Using sunscreen regularly is one of the best ways to prevent skin cancer. But choosing the right products can get confusing. The spectrum of skin care products is quite broad these days, from the old favorites that make you smell like a pina colada to more “natural” products.
Dr. Rebecca Kazin is a dermatologist with the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery. She says when choosing a sunscreen, look for two key active ingredients: zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These “physical blockers” keep the sun from reaching the skin. Also, make sure the sunscreen is designed to block both ultraviolet A and B rays.
“Some people don’t want the chemicals. I’m fine with that,” Kazin says, adding that it’s OK as long as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are in the product.
Kazin says “natural” doesn’t always mean hypoallergenic. Despite chemical-free claims, some products may still cause rashes and other bad skin reactions.
“I like to remind people that poison ivy is natural, but we’re all allergic to it,” Kazin says.
Not harmful after all
Over the years, people have raised their eyebrows about whether the chemicals in sunscreen—designed to help prevent skin cancer—may actually be harmful.
Several years ago, oxybenzone, a synthetic estrogen, was a hot topic of debate. But the Skin Cancer Foundation says there has not been any evidence that shows an adverse health effect in humans. Oxybenzone is approved by the FDA after what the foundation considers “exhaustive review.”
Kazin says she’s even heard claims about certain sunscreens being more harmful than the sun’s rays.
“There is no data to support that,” Kazin says.
The American Academy of Dermatology agrees, saying preventing sunburn and potentially skin cancer will outweigh “unproven concerns of toxicity or human health hazards from ingredients in sunscreens,” according to a recent press release from its website.
Make up for lost vitamin D
When buying sunscreen, look for the seal of recommendation from the Skin Cancer Foundation, which ensures a product meets safety and effectiveness standards. The foundation’s website allows you to look for specific products, from skin care to clothing and awnings, to determine whether they have the seal. Ample sunscreen coverage can reduce the amount of vitamin D you get from the sun, but there are ways to make up for that. Vitamin D can be found in milk, fortified cereals and fatty fish like salmon. If you’re worried you aren’t getting enough vitamin D, consult your doctor.
Wear a hat with a wide brim; keep your body covered with clothing to block the sun; and stay out of the sun during peak hours. Check your skin regularly, and visit a dermatologist once per year, particularly if you have a family history of melanoma, Kazin says.