The Joy of Sunshine
Sunlight itself is essential for many biological processes and has beneficial effects such as vitamin D synthesis and more:
Benefits of Sunlight:
Vitamin D Synthesis: Sunlight exposure is crucial for the synthesis of vitamin D in the skin, which is essential for bone health and immune function.
Mood Regulation: Sunlight exposure is associated with improved mood and mental well-being, possibly due to its effects on serotonin production.
Regulation of Circadian Rhythms: Sunlight exposure helps regulate sleep-wake cycles and overall circadian rhythms.
Individual Variability:
The risks and benefits of sunlight can vary depending on factors such as skin type, geographical location, time of day, and duration of exposure. Some individuals may be more susceptible to sunburn or UV-related skin damage than others.
In summary, while moderate sunlight exposure is beneficial for health, especially for vitamin D production and mental well-being. Practicing sun-safe behavioUrs and enjoying sunlight responsibly can help maximise its benefits while minimising potential harm to health.
Without relying on mainstream sunscreens, which contain chemicals that are best avoided, there are alternative methods to protect yourself from excessive UV exposure. Here are some natural and alternative approaches to sun protection:
Clothing: Wearing tightly woven clothing that covers your skin, such as long sleeves, pants, and wide-brimmed hats, can provide effective physical protection from UV rays.
Seek Shade: Limiting direct exposure to sunlight for overly excessive amounts of time.
Timing: Plan outdoor activities earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon when the sun's rays are less intense.
Natural Oils: Some natural oils like coconut oil, raspberry seed oil, and carrot seed oil offer sun protection due to their natural SPF properties.
Dietary Choices: Consuming foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, such as fruits, vegetables, and fish, may help protect the skin from sun damage.
Hydration: Staying well-hydrated supports overall skin health and can help the skin cope with sun exposure.
Aside from the oil options above here is a safe sunscreen option to pop in your beach bag or ski suit:
Potential Risks of Common Sunscreens:
Chemical UV Filters (e.g., Oxybenzone, Octinoxate):
Risk: Some chemical UV filters, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, have been investigated for their potential to disrupt hormones, which could contribute to cancer development over prolonged exposure.
Skin Irritation and Allergic Reactions:
Risk: Ingredients like fragrances, preservatives, and chemical filters in sunscreens can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, potentially leading to chronic inflammation which is associated with cancer risk.
Environmental Impact and Cancer Risks:
Risk: Chemical UV filters like oxybenzone and octinoxate have been linked to coral bleaching and marine ecosystem damage. Their persistence in the environment raises concerns about potential long-term effects on wildlife and human health, including cancer risks.
Conclusion:
Consumers should be aware of potential risks associated with certain ingredients. Choosing mineral-based sunscreens, opting for products free from chemical filters and fragrances, and following safe application practices can help reduce exposure to potential carcinogens and allergens.
References:
Gao, J., 2024. Sun, Sunscreens, and Skin Cancer – the Missing Link. Edited by F. Malphurs. [online] Updated on January 1. Available at: https://acumenhealth.org/sun-sunscreens-and-skin-cancer-the-missing-link/ [Accessed 2 July 2024].
Maduka, R.C., Tai, K., Gonsai, R., et al., 2023. Indoor Versus Outdoor: Does Occupational Sunlight Exposure Increase Melanoma Risk? A Systematic Review. Journal of Surgical Research, 283, pp.274-281. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jss.2022.10.025 [Accessed 2 July 2024].
Ispiryan, A., Viškelis, J., & Viškelis, P., Year of publication. Red Raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) Seed Oil: A Review. Available at: [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8151122/] [1 July 2024].
Rani, S., Sharma, D., Khalid, M., Kumar, A., 2024. Unveiling the Power of Plants: A Review on Herbal Sunscreens. American Journal of .... Available at: [https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Mohammad-Khalid-22/publication/381345166_UNVEILING_THE_POWER_OF_PLANTS_A_REVIEW_ON_HERBAL_SUNSCREENS/links/6669dda3b769e769192f068d/UNVEILING-THE-POWER-OF-PLANTS-A-REVIEW-ON-HERBAL-SUNSCREENS.pdf] [Accessed 2 July 2024].