Los Angeles, California – As summer approaches, the sun’s UV rays become more potent, posing a greater threat to those who underestimate the importance of sunscreen. With longer-wavelength ultraviolet A rays penetrating beneath the skin’s surface to cause premature aging and shorter-wavelength ultraviolet B rays affecting the outer skin layers to induce sunburns and tans, protection against harmful solar radiation is crucial.
Skin Cancer Foundation warns that both UVA and UVB rays can lead to DNA damage in skin cells, creating mutations that can accumulate over time and potentially lead to the development of skin tumors. The American Cancer Society reports that millions of cases of basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are diagnosed each year, resulting in thousands of deaths.
In the United States, melanoma, a more rare but deadly form of skin cancer, affects over 100,000 individuals annually, leading to thousands of deaths, according to the National Cancer Institute. The use of sunscreens becomes essential in preventing these malignancies, with chemical sunscreens absorbing UV rays and mineral sunscreens blocking or reflecting them to prevent skin penetration and DNA damage.
Dispelling common misconceptions about sunscreen, experts emphasize the importance of protection regardless of the UV index, skin tone, or reliance on bases tans for safeguarding against sun damage. While mineral-based sunscreens are deemed safe and offer certain advantages, including antioxidants in sun protection regimes also proves beneficial, although it is not a substitute for sunscreen.
Addressing concerns about sunscreen chemicals entering the bloodstream, experts reassure that there is no conclusive evidence of long-term harm, with many individuals preferentially choosing mineral sunscreens as an alternative. Emphasizing the comprehensive approach needed for sun protection, the combination of sunscreen, hats for physical protection, and other measures collectively contribute to minimizing sun damage and overall skin health.