In spite of torrential storms this spring, we’re still eeking toward summer and when the solar glare makes its way past the clouds, it seems stronger than ever. I’ve already been caught by surprise twice this year without sunscreen and my skin is angry!
A little sun on the skin, for most of us, can be healthy. Just 15 minutes will give you tens of thousands of IUs (international units) of Vitamin D which helps boost your immune system, strengthen your bones, manage weight, stave off colon, prostate and other cancers, and so much more.
Sunscreens, however, block UVB rays that allow your skin to synthesize Vitamin D in concert with the liver. Since we only need 15 minutes of sun for this process, experts such as Dr. Mehmet Oz (Real Age and the Dr. Oz Show) and researchers at the National Institute of Health recommend minimal sun exposure to the legs, arms, or back… BUT! Don’t forget to cover up after.
The CDC reminds us to “apply sunscreen approximately 30 minutes before being in the sun (for best results) so that it can be absorbed by the skin and is less likely to wash off when you perspire.” Dr. Oz’s Real Age collaborator, Dr. Michael Roizen of the Cleveland Clinic suggests stepping out on that directive 10-15 minutes early once a week. That way you won’t forget to lather up and you’ll still soak up some D-producing UVBs.
A Giant Caveat… Let’s be very clear. Though Dr. Oz notes that skin cancer “develops on the body in places where the sun doesn’t shine”(suggesting the sun damage isn’t the only culprit), we still have to remain careful about sun exposure, and particularly burning. The NIH states: “There are no studies to determine whether UVB-induced synthesis of vitamin D can occur without increased risk of skin cancer.” If you are at all sensitive to the sun, find your D in food and supplements instead, and cover up to avoid all UV rays.
Other notes to consider: as we age, skin begins to lose its ability to produce melanin making us more susceptible to burning, according to Prevention Magazine (June 2011). In which case, no UVB exposure is considered safe. Bug spray (DEET in particular) as well as antibiotics and other medications also can make us more likely to burn. Finally, it’s important to cover the exposed areas of your skin with a generous amount of sunscreen and re-apply every couple of hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.
Once you get to the notion of choosing a sunscreen, price shouldn’t be an issue. Dematologists agree that price can make a product smell or fell better but it won’t make a lotion more effective at blocking UV rays.
Price aside, which sunscreen is best? Other than not going out in the sun or wearing protective clothing, choose a sunscreen with natural active ingredients that are mineral-based: zinc or titanium oxide. They reflect all types of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. More common commercial active ingredients are compounds that absorb UV radiation, dissipating it as heat. These include Octyl methoxycinnamate (OMC) or oxybenzone, dioxybenzone. Chemical watch dogs don’t care for the bezones as they have been shown, in massive doses, to disrupt hormones in lab animals, making them potential carcinogens (though the data is currently weak, according to dermatologists).
For more depth on the chemical side of your sunscreen, our friend Renee Caron of North Carolina shared the Environmental Working Group’s “Skin Deep” website review of summer products.
In short, weigh the benefits and the risks to decide on how you’ll handle both the sun and your need for available Vitamin D. The sun is oh so powerful and can cause great damage. Respect that, and you’ll be safe.
Life is forever a balance. Make an informed choice. Make the choice that’s best for you. Make a move.
See you on the Sunny PATH Ahead!