Sunscreen Tips
Ban the Tan?
Welcome to summer, and if you live in Arizona, welcome to triple digit temps! It’s that time of year when most of us spend time cooling off in the pool or cooking food on the grill, but are you protecting your skin?
You've probably already been told how harmful the sun's rays can be, and protecting your skin—your largest organ—is an important step in reducing your risk of skin cancer. But lately, it seems picking the right sunscreen is more confusing than ever.
Some sunscreens can contain toxic chemicals that actually increase damage to skin cells when exposed to the sun. This means certain sunscreens may actually increase your risk of skin cancer. Also, certain sunscreens can block your natural ability to convert sunshine into vitamin D, an essential hormone your body needs for energy and vitality. So, what is a person to do?
Tips for Healthy Skin:
Sunscreens to Avoid: Avoid sunscreens that contain oxybenzone, vitamin A, octyl-methoxycinnamate, octinate, insect repellent, pesticides, sprays, powders and SPF above 50+. These chemicals can be endocrine disruptors and can create skin cell damage.
Sunscreens to Use: Look for sunscreens that contain zinc, titanium dioxide, avobenzone or mexoryl sx. These should be cream based, providing broad-spectrum coverage, water resistant and are SPF 30+ or below.
Be Aware of the Time: It's always a good idea to minimize sun exposure between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., especially if you live in the desert. This is when the sun provides the most intense and harmful rays.
Layer Your Protection: Consider layering your protection by using hats, sunglasses, umbrellas, UV protective clothing and seeking out shade whenever possible. This is extremely important when caring for children and the elderly as well, as they can't always advocate for themselves and may need a little extra help and attention.
Protect Your Insides: Eating foods high in antioxidants such as nuts, seeds, red/yellow/orange vegetables and fruits, leafy greens and berries can actually provide an extra layer of sun protection. Dietary antioxidants help quench free radicals caused by sun exposure, helping to reduce the risk of skin cancer. Foods that have been shown to decrease cancer risk include, fish, green tea and curcumin.
Monitor UV Exposure: There are products on the market, such as Sun Signal, or other electronic UV monitors that actually keep track of sun exposure. The devices are intended to let you know if UV exposure has reached a dangerous level, alerting you to go back indoors.
10 Minutes Free of Sunblock: I recommend you give yourself 10 minutes free of sunblock or sunscreen once daily while outdoors. But, only if you are comfortable and if you don't have a family history of skin cancer. This might be something for you to discuss with your physician. The reason for this recommendation is, that 10 minutes is just long enough to allow your body to make vitamin D, without causing permanent harm. That's how crucial vitamin D is for the body, and incidences of vitamin D deficiencies seem to be on the rise, even in Arizona.
Protection After Sun Exposure
Protecting your skin cells from sun damage doesn’t have to stop at sunscreen. You can apply herbs and nutrients daily to protect yourself from damage that increases skin cancer risk with a couple of simple topical nutrients. I recommend:
Ascorbic Acid: When applied topically it has been shown to protect against sunburn, delay the onset of tumors, and reduce UVB induced wrinkles.
Vitamin E: This essential vitamin provides lipid soluble antioxidants that act directly within the top layers of skin.
EGCG (Green Tea Extract): When applied topically before sun exposure, green tea extract blocks UV radiation penetration, decreases inflammation and decreases damage to skin cells. Try making a tea infusion for your bathtub. It's wonderful and healthy for you.
Go to http://breakingnews.ewg.org/2011sunscreen/ to compare your sunscreen, and review recommended safe brands.
Dr. Heather Paulson is a board certified Naturopathic Oncologist supporting cancer patients through expert care and natural therapies.To reach Dr. Paulson: 480.205.3396 or info@drheatherpaulson.com http://drheatherpaulson.com/
For the sole purpose of information this article is in no way intended to diagnose, offer medical advice or recommendations. All information included represents the view of the individual and not necessarily those of LiWi. It's always recommended you seek medical advice from your physician before incorporating any changes to your lifestyle.
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