Sunscreen is the safest option to protect yourself from skin cancer

A recent article in a medical journal posted May 6th studied if certain ingredients in sunscreen can be absorbed through the skin and into the blood stream. The study concluded that some ingredients do absorb into the skin. 

“They were looking at how much and their results were that they found more absorbed through the skin than they expected and they came to the conclusion that more studies should be done on the safety of the absorption of those ingredients,” said Children First Pediatrics Dr. Michael Applegate. 

Recently, this study sent public misconceptions that the ingredients absorbed could have adverse health effects on the individual. 

“We don’t know whether the absorption of these ingredients is going to turn out in having any risk at all, but we do know that exposure to the sun will increase your risk of skin cancer,” said Applegate. 

Those ingredients absorbed may be Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, both of which are not harmful at the concentrations in the sunscreen. Experts remind us that sunscreen is there to protect you from the sun’s harmful rays and the best way to avoid skin cancer for youth and adults alike is to follow all safety measures accordingly. 

“Putting sunscreen on them [children] prior to their exposure is important. I generally recommend to my patients an SPF of 30 or higher is appropriate protection. Waterproof sunscreens last a little longer and are typically more comfortable for the kids, but that’s not essential.

The quality difference between organic and commercial sunscreen does not matter to the user. Organic sunscreen just may have to be applied more frequently than regular.