The last few days, headlines have been circulating that sound something like this: “Sunscreen Ingredients Are Absorbed Into Your Blood”… but, what does that mean?
In this podcast: Dr. Rachel Ness from the Fargo Center for Dermatology, says the last thing she wants to happen is for people to become fearful of sunscreen because of these headlines.
The Study
Dr. Ness notes
the study
is a relatively small sample size – just 24 people, using only 4 different
chemical
sunscreens, and applying them to a huge area of the body 3 or 4 times a day. And, while they did find some of those chemicals from the sunscreen in the bloodstream, we don’t really know what that means. Further studies need to be done.
What extensive studies have proven: sun exposure causes sun cancer.
Fortunately, if you are still concerned, there is an alternative.
Chemical vs. Non-chemical
Non-chemical sunscreens, which also referred to a “physical” or “mineral based” sunscreens. Look for the ingredients, “zinc oxide” or “titanium dioxide”.
There is no evidence of non-chemical sunscreens making their way into the bloodstream.
(And, as Dr. Ness describes in the podcast: No, you won’t look completely white!)
Sun Protection
If sunscreens aren’t for you, good news! Dr. Ness says there are a TON of alternatives for those not wanting to lather on the sunscreen.
UPF clothing, blankets and wide-brimmed hats! If the UPF clothing is bought from a reputable company and has a UPF rating on it, that is better sun protection than sunscreen.
Sunscreen is not safe for those under 6 months. Shading, blankets and avoiding sun exposure is still recommended for all infants under 6 months. Dr. Ness notes that from 6-12 months, the rules are still a bit controversial, but sticking with the mineral-based sunscreens is your best bet.
Listen to the full conversation above!
(Dr. Rachel Ness, photo courtesy of
Fargo Center for Dermatology
)
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(Amy Iler & JJ Gordon are talk-show hosts at 790 AM KFGO in Fargo-Moorhead. “It Takes 2 with Amy & JJ” can be heard weekdays 11am-2pm. Check out the show page on
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