Sunshine & Sunscreens Myths vs Reality

Cheryl Rounds
As kids growing up, we were sent outside to play because sunshine and fresh air were supposed to be good for us. Today, we are given mixed messages in regards to that radiant sunshine that we all naturally crave to feel good. The sun causes cancer, we are told. Make sure you slather lots sunscreen on before you dare go outside, and make sure you refresh it every few hours especially if you are sweating a lot. Go in the water, we are told. After all, you have to protect yourself from the sun. It can be deadly.
   The sun provides us with Vitamin D and it might help to prevent breast and other cancers (even skin cancer). What about the fact that we need Vitamin D along with calcium, magnesium and other minerals to make strong bones? Low Vitamin D levels have also been associated with multiple sclerosis, depression and peripheral artery disease (PAD). And research continues to find other ways that Vitamin D can benefit our health.
   Now that we are learning more about the importance of Vitamin D, what do we know about the lotions and potions that we are told to use to prevent the evil sun from supposedly harming us? There are two different types of sun protection products: Sunblocks are mineral barriers such as zinc oxide and titanium oxide that reflect the sunshine away from your skin, whereas sunscreens are chemical concoctions designed to absorb the sunshine and keep it from harming you.
   Sunblocks appear to be safer, although there is some discussion as to whether the newer products that contain nanoparticles are safe at all, since these tiny particles can be easily absorbed into the skin. The chemicals used in sunscreens, while they will prevent sunburn, come with their own set of problems; these chemicals work by absorbing the sun’s rays so that they will not cause you harm. In so doing, these chemicals actually break down and create free radicals.
   Just what is the answer to this dilemma? I believe it is important to acknowledge that we humans have existed side by side with the sun since we have been on this earth. We have developed a natural defense called ‘tanning’ to prevent the suns rays from burning our skin. And unless you live on or near the equator, seasonal cycles allow your body to gradually build a tan prior to the hottest part of the summer. A problem today is that many of us put sunscreen on each and every time we go outside starting in the early spring. And then one day we go out in the middle of the summer for a short period of time without sunscreen and prove that evil sun gives us sunburn because we are defenseless.  

Common sense rules for avoiding sunburn: 1. Stay out of direct sun when it is strongest (between 11 a.m and 2 p.m.) 2. Wear clothing such as wide brimmed hats and long sleeve shirts to protect you from direct sun if you must be out during these times.  3. Seek trees or use beach umbrellas or domes to stay in the shade at the beach. 4. If you are gong to be in the sun for an extended period of time, use sunblock.  
   Look for products based on zinc oxide or titanium oxide that are NOT nano-particles.  (Ingredients such as aloe vera , shea butter, coconut butter and Vitamin E are all natural moisturizers which will help to keep the skin from drying out.  
   Avoid lotions and creams that contain other chemicals such as TEA, MEA, DEA, PGs, PEGs and parabens. Many of these chemicals are carcinogenic and will contribute to your chemical body burden.  Scientists believe that sunscreens are playing a part in the die off of the coral reefs in our oceans?
   Your best bet is to look for a product that has been certified organic; this is your guarantee that it is chemical free and safe to use.
   Finally, one last note about the prevention of skin cancer: A healthy diet is another one of our body’s defenses against all cancers. High antioxidant rich fruits and vegetables help keep free-radicals from damaging our cells. Research suggests that eating a balance of healthy fats (omega3s and omega 6s) and avoiding unhealthy fats (such as Trans Fats) may help one prevent skin cancer. When you understand this: all cells have a lipid (fat) layer in the cell membrane that surrounds the cell controling what goes in and out of each cell to keep it healthy.
   Bottom line: Use common sense to stay safe in the sun. Don’t buy into all the fear mongering from sunscreen manufactures about the sun being something you should avoid at all costs. When buying sun protection products, look for non-toxic products to protect yourself and the planet.