| For years we have been told that we should not go out into
the sun without first protecting our skin with a sunscreen. However recent research has found that some sunscreens may be at least partly
to blame for the increase in certain types of
skin cancer such as melanoma and basal cell carcinoma. |
| It seems that covering the
skin with a sunscreen causes two problems. Firstly it delays sunburn, a warning sign that
it is time for us to head for the shade, and secondly, it reduces our body's ability to
produce Vitamin D, the vitamin that suppresses the growth of melanoma cells. |
| Researchers think a solution may be to use a
sunscreen that has vitamins, minerals or other nutrients like herbs added. They also
suggest taking supplements to boost our protection from within. |
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| Don't Hide from the Sun -
Some Exposure is Essential to Good Health |
| Sunlight plays a vital role to our bodies
physical and mental good health. Not only is it essential for the production of Vitamin D
but deprivation of sunlight can cause Seasonal Effective Disorder, which makes us feel
depressed and fatigued. There are also studies which appear to show that if we restrict
sunlight from our lives too much we are at increased risk of breast, prostate and colon
cancer.; So follow a few simple rules and enjoy the sunshine. |
|
| Here's What the Experts Recommend |
 |
Avoid the exposure during midday hours |
|
Choose a sunscreen with added nutrients (see
below), apply 30 - 60 minutes before exposure, and re-apply often. |
|
Take Vitamins
C, D and E, and Beta Carotene along with Selenium, Calcium and Zinc to give your sunscreen
a boost and help prevent skin damage. Remember
the nutrients that help prevent sunburn, can also help to heal it. |
|
Eat a healthy diet, including plenty of fruits
and vegetables. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, carotenoids and flavonoids - all the
things needed for healthy skin and good healing. |
|
Drink Green Tea. In a recent study it was shown
to be beneficial. Tea can also be applied topically to sooth sunburn. |
|
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| Tips On Choosing
Sunscreen and After-Sun Skincare Products |
| Worldwide research studies on
the effectiveness of adding nutrients to sunscreens to protect the skin from sun damage is
ongoing Those listed below have shown positive benefits and the nutrients are worth
looking out for when buying sunscreen and after-sun skin care products, or to be used on
their own. Others are age old herbal remedies that have stood the test of time, and are
worth considering. |
|
|
Vitamin C - This powerful
antioxidant is one of the skin's major defenses against sunburn. It is also important in
tissue repair. The sun destroys the skin's store of Vitamin C. |
|
Vitamin E - Vitamin E acts as
a natural sunscreen. It is an antioxidant that aids tissue repair and the healing of
scars. Experts say it will also help ease sunburn. |
|
Selenium - Selenium has been
found to be effective in preventing sunburn. Lotions containing selenium have been around
for many years as treatments for a variety of skin problems including fungal infections
and dandruff. |
|
Zinc - Zinc has long been a
treatment for minor burns and skin irritations. Life guards appreciate the value of zinc
to protect their noses - it may look funny, but it works. It is now available in an almost
invisible form in some sun blocks. |
|
Aloe Vera - The value of Aloe
as a protectant from the sun is still being studied, but it is well known for it's healing
powers when we do burn. Aloe's action on the skin may also prove to reduce the chance of
skin cancer. ; |
|
Witch Hazel - This household
remedy helps to heal wounds and is an anti-inflammatory. It can be used for sunburn &
other minor burns. It is also used to treat swelling and bruises. In a recent study it
showed promise as a beneficial addition to sunscreens and after-sun skin care products. |
|
Calendula - This herbal
remedy reduces inflammation, and is very soothing to sunburnt skin. |
|
Lavender Oil - A few drops of
lavender oil added to almond, wheatgerm or sunflower oil relieves sunburn as well as other
minor burns & scalds. |
|
Baking Soda - Another common
household product that can help soothe sunburned skin. Dissolve a 16 oz box of Baking Soda
in lukewarm water and soak in the tub for half an hour. |
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Tea - Allow a pot of strong
tea to cool, soak cloths with the tea, then apply to sunburned areas. Leave on for 30
minutes. |
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