Sunbathing is the practice of exposing ones skin to the sun in order to get a tan or to enjoy the benefits of sunlight. Sunscreen products are commonly used to protect the skin from the harmful effects of the suns ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can cause sunburns and skin cancer. Here are some details about sunscreen products, including their ingredients and potential positive and negative effects:
Ingredients:
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Chemical sunscreens: These work by absorbing the suns rays and contain active ingredients such as oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate. They tend to be easier to rub into the skin without leaving a white "cast".
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Physical (mineral) sunscreens: These work by sitting on the surface of the skin and reflecting the suns rays. They contain active ingredients such as zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. They are a good option for people with sensitive skin.
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Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide: These are the only two ingredients that could be classified as safe and effective, based on the currently available information.
Positive effects:
- Protection from the harmful effects of the suns UV rays, which can cause sunburns and skin cancer.
Negative effects:
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Some experts are concerned that certain chemical sunscreen ingredients, such as oxybenzone and avobenzone, may be absorbed through the skin, leading to skin irritation, hormonal disruption, and even skin cancer.
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Mineral sunscreens have consistently underperformed in testing, not always testing at the claimed SPF label on the package and failing to provide adequate protection from either UVA or UVB rays.
Other details:
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The FDA has proposed that both titanium dioxide and zinc oxide be classified as safe and effective.
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To reduce its response to sunlight, manufacturers use forms of minerals coated with inert chemicals. To lower the risks to sunscreen users and maximize these products sun protection, EWG supports stronger guidelines and restrictions on the types of zinc and titanium used in sunscreens, including nanoparticles.
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The overall rating for each sunscreen product is calculated on the basis of a formula reflecting a combination of the products health hazard and efficacy ratings.
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Spending time in the sun can have positive effects, such as reduced depression and better sleep, but too much time in the sun can lead to sun rash, sometimes called heat rash, which is a negative effect.
In summary, sunscreen products can protect the skin from the harmful effects of the suns UV rays, but some chemical sunscreen ingredients may have negative effects. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are considered safe and effective ingredients, and physical (mineral) sunscreens are a good option for people with sensitive skin. Spending time in the sun can have positive eff...
