Sunblock

Sunblock Health Issues

As a nation we are using more and more sunblocks and sunscreens - but is it good for us and more importantly our children?

Sunblock

Hhhmmmmmm sunblock - very much an area for debate. We are using more sunblock than ever before ... but is it any good for us? The answer, to be truthful, is probably yes and no. The chemicals used in sunblocks either absorb or reflect the UVA and UVB rays, so preventing them from damaging the skin.

But what about the chemicals themselves? Do we absorb them? And if so, does it do any harm?

In some cases, the jury is out. Take Titanium Dioxide for example. A mineral based compound found in some 'green' sunblocks, and often referred to as 'natural'. It does reflect UV light (rather than absorb) but is also absorbed into the skin. As it is used to break down organic matter, there is concern that it mat effect human DNA. But to be fair, there are some scares associated with octylmethoxicynnamate, which is also used in sunscreens. Both are 'safe for cosmetic use', according to the relevant government advice sources.

What about the SPF value - what does that mean? SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and the value (anything from 2 to 60) refers to the amount of time longer you can be in the sun before you burn. So the concentration of chemicals is higher as the SPF value increases.

Are there any plant sources that can provide the equivalent SPF factor, thus avoiding the use of chemicals? Well, again, yes and no. Certain plant extracts, such as hemp oil, coconut oil, shea butter, buriti oil, edelweiss, carrot seed oil and aloe vera have been found to have some sun protection value, but not as extensive as the chemicals. However, the plant based materials do not interfere with the absorption of vitamin D like the chemicals do, and also provide much in the way of cell repair.