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Sun Safety

excerpt from Natural Baby and Childcare by Lauren Feder, M.D.

We are all aware of the links between sun exposure and skin cancer, and more people are making sunscreens, hats, and other protective clothing a regular habit. Media and health campaigns in recent years have convinced many of the necessity of applying sunscreen prior to any sun exposure, and in fact, many people wear sunscreen all year round in an effort to protect against skin cancer. But emerging research suggests that the chemicals in standard sunscreens may increase the risk of cancer, and that some exposure to the sun is beneficial.

The radiation from the sun contains both visible and invisible rays. The latter, called ultraviolet (UV) light, can increase the risk of skin cancer when an individual is exposed for prolonged periods and at high doses. People can be exposed to UV rays on cloudy days as well as on a sunny one. UV light is divided into ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB). UVA provides most of the sun rays and are longer and penetrate deeper into the skin's layers. UVA rays are known to cause leathery skin and wrinkles. UVB rays are shorter, and only reach the superficial layers of the skin and are responsible for sunburns and skin cancers. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) distinguishes sunscreens on two main factors, the sun protection factor (SPF) and UVA and UVB protective actions. An SPF 30 means that it takes 30 times longer to burn with the sunscreen than if you were in the sun without sunscreen.

In an article on sun exposure in the British Medical Journal, the writers concluded that sun exposure without sunscreen was sensible in moderation. Every body needs sun to maintain good health: vitamin D is made in the body through exposure to the sun, and the sun may be helpful in treating depression, alleviating Seasonal Affect Disorder, and protecting against certain cancers and diseases like multiple sclerosis.

Old-fashioned sunblocks create a physical barrier to the sun's rays by using titanium dioxide and zinc oxides to block UV rays.. These ingredients are not absorbed into the skin but rather leaves a whitish gleam to the skin. Sunblocks provide a broad spectrum to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. On the other hand, sunscreens are absorbed into the skin creating a chemical sun barrier which are usually invisible when rubbed into the skin. The sunscreens act to filter the UV radiation, and are considered the unhealthier choice. Sunscreen ingredients are linked to cancer due to their free radical generation and similarity to estrogen, known as toxic estrogenic chemical sunscreens. In addition, the latter may affect sexual development, birth defects, and lower sperm count and penis size in men. When using sun protection, the one that provides a physical barrier is preferable. I prefer the more natural varieties that are chemical free and PABA free.. PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid) is known to cause allergy and is rarely used these days.

In addition, emerging research suggests sunscreens may not be enough to prevent skin cancer, since they do not offer protection against the formation of moles, which have been implicated in skin cancer, including the common and sometimes fatal form, melanoma. Only clothing can prevent moles from forming on the skin.

Most sun damage occurs during childhood, so it is particularly important to take precautions in these early years. Children and babies are more vulnerable to the effects of the sun and should be well covered, whatever the weather. Dress your child in a long white t-shirt (an adult sized t-shirt can be used to protect legs) and hat. The hat should also protect the eyes. If this is not sufficient, consider sunglasses with 100 percent UV filtration. Clothes provide minimal protection with an SPF of 5.9. Sunscreen should not be used on babies less than six months old.

At the beginning of your outdoor season, take your child out for ten minutes a day, preferably in the morning hours before 10 a.m. and increase exposure time gradually. Avoid the noon hour outside. Gradual exposure allows her skin to become accustomed to the sun, and within several weeks, she will be at less risk for sunburn. If skin ever appears too red, go inside. When outside, drink plenty of water and eat vegetables (the antioxidants in vegetables help protect against sun radiation). Be sensible and avoid excess exposure.

Natural Products for Sun Safety

California Baby® Sunblock Stick and Sunscreen SPF 30+ Lotion for Children and Adults

Book of the Month February 2008

Holistic Moms Network

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