16 replies to this topic

[Anne_nl]

Thinking I was taking optimal sun protection measurements, using a sunscreen with a high PPD with Mexoryl XL and Mexoryl SX (LRP, Anthelios Dermo Pediatrics, 50+ PPD 39) , I was convinced I was using the best product to prevent skin damage from UVA-rays.

Reading up a bit on Eva Victoria's advices (very helpful; thank you for sharing your wealth of knowledge), I now realize I was not covering the broad spectrum of UVA-rays (the product I used doesn't seem to cover UVAI, 365-400nm ).
Living in Europe I can't easily get a hold on sunscreens that contain 20% of ZnO. Moreover, my concern is a bit that I'd like to keep using a sunscreen with high UVAII protection too, not just 'moderate protection in the complete spectrum' given my outdoor sport activities.
As such I was wondering - sorry if this was mentioned before and for my lack of knowledge about stability of sunscreen filters, carriers etc - , whether it is possible to use a simple ZnO-cream with roughly 20% ZnO (preferably no nanoparticles as I understood it?), and layer it about 30-60 minutes later with my current LRP-product, that I would re-apply every two hours.
The total protection would seem like 'the best out of both worlds', although I realize I'd probably end up looking like a ghost.

I'd like to know if
- it is likely this layering would 'destabilize' any filter and if I would thus in the end risk ending up doing more damage than good,
- and what kind of 'carriers' the ZnO-cream should ideally have for the product to be effective in blocking UVAI (and preferably 'drying' enough so that it would allow me to put a chemical sunscreen on top of it later),
- and if there is any ingredient/carrier to be avoided in such a ZnO-cream that could potentially destabilize the chemical filters/sunscreen used on top of it.

Also, would applying the ZnO-cream once a day, reapplying the chemical sunscreen several times a day be sufficient to stay effectively protected against the complete UVA (including UVAI)-spectrum?

Any input would be highly appreciated. Thanks!

[mustardseed41]

The zinc oxide cream you are thinking of using is likely to make you look like a ghost for sure. So that kinda kills that strategy IMO...unless you don't mind people starring at you....plus I would think using a chemical sunscreen under the zinc oxide would make more sense....i cant see the chemical sunscreen being that effective on top of zinc oxide.....its job is to be absorbed into the skin....let me check on some good zinc sunscreens that ship to your country

[Luminosity]

Well, I would think that looking like a ghost, or clogging your pores, or irritation would be a consideration? There have been a lot of false claims for sunblock, especially in the United States. Many have claimed that they had UVA protection but didn't. Our government didn't stop them. Paula Begoun has a number of books to help people sort out sunblocks and other products. She could probably also answer your question. She has a website.

I would recommend that you take cooled green tea and put it on your skin with a cotton ball or round and let it dry, then put on one layer of the best sunblock you can find. The green tea adds a layer of added sunscreen. If you can find a foundation (makeup) with good sun protection instead of sunblock, this is even better because the makeup will also physically block the sun to some degree. For that matter, a hat, visor, sunglasses and long sleeves are good. So is seeking shade and going out early or late.

Living right and eating right will help prevent skin damage from the sun. Some of what is called sun damage can be from toxins taken into the body. Don't smoke, avoid toxins, etc. Eat lots of fruit and vegetables. Do what you can about sun damage but don't stop living your life.

[Anne_nl]

Thanks a lot. Indeed, obviously other factors are as important as using sunscreen. Taking care of your general health being the no. 1 priority (which will of course reflect on your skin quality). The past years I've continuously been trying to improve that part, this forum being a great source of information when it comes to that, but next to that I'd love to find a sunscreen that really provides broad spectrum sun protection.
The green tea 'tonic' is an idea, although I should look up a publication that refererred to mostly UVB protection benefits when great tea was applied topically, not too sure about UVA protection benefits. But Ishould look into that first.
When it comes to sunscreen, I bought the Kabana Green screen formula. I didn't receive it yet, but have been reading alarming stories about the ghostlike appearance both of you warned me for the past days.

Would love to know whether I can use make-up on top of this ghostly stuff. Will any coloured powder on top of ZnO sunscreen 'diminish' its effectiveness? Is there anything to take in mind when buying such a powder: particle size/content wise?

Eva Victoria, might you read this, I'd love to know whether in your opinion it is okay to use any coloured powder/make up on top of a ZnO sunscreen (20% ZnO, Kabana Green Screen) and what to look for in such a product to avoid it from interacting with the sunscreen. I also would love to know if your new sunscreen will be launched anytime soon.

Thank you very much for any insight!

Edited by Anne_nl, 15 May 2012 - 04:14 PM.

[Luminosity]

If your skin takes well to a light moisturizer under foundation then consider an Oil of Olay sunscreen/moisturizer under your foundation. For me, it would be too many products. You could also have put the green tea under the Oil of Olay and let it dry. Then you could put a powder with sunscreen over the foundation if that works for you. Don't know if the the powder would lessen the effect of the sunscreen. I suspect, if it had sunscreen in it, it would just add to it. The question is, how many layers of products will stay put on your skin, and not clog your pores, and not make you too hot and uncomfortable to be active? Personally, I could only handle one layer on top of the green tea at best but then I would add a visor, hat, sunglasses and try to go out early or late and stay in the shade. That's workable for me.

[Eva Victoria]

Thank you for your kind words, Anne.

My answers are in blue:

"
I'd like to know if
- it is likely this layering would 'destabilize' any filter and if I would thus in the end risk ending up doing more damage than good,

Most unlikely that it would destabilize the organic filters. (ZnO is photostable when it is coated).

- and what kind of 'carriers' the ZnO-cream should ideally have for the product to be effective in blocking UVAI (and preferably 'drying' enough so that it would allow me to put a chemical sunscreen on top of it later),

It should be a W/Si formulation very fluid. It would dry fast. It should have a filmformer and SPF and PPD increasing ingredients (for even higher and better UVR protection).

- and if there is any ingredient/carrier to be avoided in such a ZnO-cream that could potentially destabilize the chemical filters/sunscreen used on top of it.

I cannot think of any. But you should avoid uncoated ZnO and formulations that contain Aluminium. Al (and minerals generally) can destabilize AVO. But it is only a concern if AVO is stored in formulation like this, not when it is mixed and used asap.

Also, would applying the ZnO-cream once a day, reapplying the chemical sunscreen several times a day be sufficient to stay effectively protected against the complete UVA (including UVAI)-spectrum?"

I think one sunscreen is enough (apply liberally and maybe twice for making sure that eveerything is covered). But if you prefer using two different sunscreens then I would apply the chemical filters first and the inorganic (ZnO) afterwards).

Thinking I was taking optimal sun protection measurements, using a sunscreen with a high PPD with Mexoryl XL and Mexoryl SX (LRP, Anthelios Dermo Pediatrics, 50+ PPD 39) , I was convinced I was using the best product to prevent skin damage from UVA-rays.

Reading up a bit on Eva Victoria's advices (very helpful; thank you for sharing your wealth of knowledge), I now realize I was not covering the broad spectrum of UVA-rays (the product I used doesn't seem to cover UVAI, 365-400nm ).
Living in Europe I can't easily get a hold on sunscreens that contain 20% of ZnO. Moreover, my concern is a bit that I'd like to keep using a sunscreen with high UVAII protection too, not just 'moderate protection in the complete spectrum' given my outdoor sport activities.
As such I was wondering - sorry if this was mentioned before and for my lack of knowledge about stability of sunscreen filters, carriers etc - , whether it is possible to use a simple ZnO-cream with roughly 20% ZnO (preferably no nanoparticles as I understood it?), and layer it about 30-60 minutes later with my current LRP-product, that I would re-apply every two hours.
The total protection would seem like 'the best out of both worlds', although I realize I'd probably end up looking like a ghost.

I'd like to know if
- it is likely this layering would 'destabilize' any filter and if I would thus in the end risk ending up doing more damage than good,
- and what kind of 'carriers' the ZnO-cream should ideally have for the product to be effective in blocking UVAI (and preferably 'drying' enough so that it would allow me to put a chemical sunscreen on top of it later),
- and if there is any ingredient/carrier to be avoided in such a ZnO-cream that could potentially destabilize the chemical filters/sunscreen used on top of it.

Also, would applying the ZnO-cream once a day, reapplying the chemical sunscreen several times a day be sufficient to stay effectively protected against the complete UVA (including UVAI)-spectrum?

Any input would be highly appreciated. Thanks!

[Anne_nl]

If your skin takes well to a light moisturizer under foundation then consider an Oil of Olay sunscreen/moisturizer under your foundation. For me, it would be too many products. You could also have put the green tea under the Oil of Olay and let it dry. Then you could put a powder with sunscreen over the foundation if that works for you. Don't know if the the powder would lessen the effect of the sunscreen. I suspect, if it had sunscreen in it, it would just add to it. The question is, how many layers of products will stay put on your skin, and not clog your pores, and not make you too hot and uncomfortable to be active? Personally, I could only handle one layer on top of the green tea at best but then I would add a visor, hat, sunglasses and try to go out early or late and stay in the shade. That's workable for me.

Sorry for my late reply; I've been absorbed in work. Thanks a lot for the info! I'm going to give the green tea a try. I might indeed be a bit too optimistic when it comes to the multiple layers ; will see how far I come. I do try not to be outside too much during 'peak hours', and stay in the shade, but do you still wear the visor and hat even in the evening/morning? I'm pretty cautious but have to admit I've tried the hat a few times and it was never a success. It's a rare thing over here to wear a hat; people seem to think some kind of alien is walking by .

[Anne_nl]

Thank you for your kind words, Anne.

My answers are in blue:

"
I'd like to know if
- it is likely this layering would 'destabilize' any filter and if I would thus in the end risk ending up doing more damage than good,

Most unlikely that it would destabilize the organic filters. (ZnO is photostable when it is coated).

- and what kind of 'carriers' the ZnO-cream should ideally have for the product to be effective in blocking UVAI (and preferably 'drying' enough so that it would allow me to put a chemical sunscreen on top of it later),

It should be a W/Si formulation very fluid. It would dry fast. It should have a filmformer and SPF and PPD increasing ingredients (for even higher and better UVR protection).

- and if there is any ingredient/carrier to be avoided in such a ZnO-cream that could potentially destabilize the chemical filters/sunscreen used on top of it.

I cannot think of any. But you should avoid uncoated ZnO and formulations that contain Aluminium. Al (and minerals generally) can destabilize AVO. But it is only a concern if AVO is stored in formulation like this, not when it is mixed and used asap.

Also, would applying the ZnO-cream once a day, reapplying the chemical sunscreen several times a day be sufficient to stay effectively protected against the complete UVA (including UVAI)-spectrum?"

I think one sunscreen is enough (apply liberally and maybe twice for making sure that eveerything is covered). But if you prefer using two different sunscreens then I would apply the chemical filters first and the inorganic (ZnO) afterwards).

Super; thank you very much for taking the time to answer all my questions Eva. Very helpful. Sorry I haven't been at the forum for a while. I'm going to look into a fluid, coated ZnO-cream with SPF and PPD-increasing ingredients. It might work better for me. I also ordered a 25% ZnO-sunscreen with non-nanoparticles, but I'm not really convinced it will be suitable for every day use.
I was a bit confused as I ordered the following sunscreen, and heard the critical wavelength is 380nm, whereas I thought a sunscreen with >20% ZnO, non-nanoparticles, would have a critical wavelength of at least 400nm? Or am I interpreting something wrong?
Thanks again!

• 25% non-nano Zinc Oxide
• Eldorado Springs Artesian Spring Water
• Certified Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Certified Organic Beeswax
• Vegetable Vitamin E (non-gmo from sunflower seeds)
• Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol, 400IU/ounce sunscreen)

[PGN]

Thanks a lot. Indeed, obviously other factors are as important as using sunscreen. Taking care of your general health being the no. 1 priority (which will of course reflect on your skin quality). The past years I've continuously been trying to improve that part, this forum being a great source of information when it comes to that, but next to that I'd love to find a sunscreen that really provides broad spectrum sun protection.
The green tea 'tonic' is an idea, although I should look up a publication that refererred to mostly UVB protection benefits when great tea was applied topically, not too sure about UVA protection benefits. But Ishould look into that first.
When it comes to sunscreen, I bought the Kabana Green screen formula. I didn't receive it yet, but have been reading alarming stories about the ghostlike appearance both of you warned me for the past days.

Would love to know whether I can use make-up on top of this ghostly stuff. Will any coloured powder on top of ZnO sunscreen 'diminish' its effectiveness? Is there anything to take in mind when buying such a powder: particle size/content wise?

Eva Victoria, might you read this, I'd love to know whether in your opinion it is okay to use any coloured powder/make up on top of a ZnO sunscreen (20% ZnO, Kabana Green Screen) and what to look for in such a product to avoid it from interacting with the sunscreen. I also would love to know if your new sunscreen will be launched anytime soon.

Thank you very much for any insight!

Have you considered mineral makeup for SPF protection and to diminish the ghostly appearance of your zinc SS? Most mineral makeups which are SPF rated provide both UVA and UVB protection. Many contain mostly zinc oxides and titanium dioxides, no chemicals. It's a powder, so it sits on top of your skin, less likely to clog your pores. You can brush it over your liquid SS. Your biggest problem will be finding a brand that you like for coverage and color match. I use a translucent mineral powder sunscreen with SPF 30 but it really doesn't cover blemishes well. To give you an idea of what a mineral makeup is, go look at Jane Iredale's website. I'm new so I can't give the link. But it's a widely known brand, available worldwide. But there are literally thousands of other brands with just as good or better quality. Find one with the least ingredients, SPF coverage of at least 15, and offers samples for trials before you buy the full size. Another thing you could do is mix some mineral powder with your sunscreen to lessen the whiteness, in effect, make your own tinted SS. HTH

[mustardseed41]

Yep mineral makeup works great with zinc sunscreens. What I have been doing is I use a liquid mineral make-up (darkest one) and add a few drops to 1or 2 ounces of sunscreen in a small plastic jar. Then mix very well to get the tint I'm looking for. I use PurplePrairie sunscreen (20% non-nano zinc). It's also about the cheapest high quality zinc sunscreen you can find. $20 for 9.5 ounces.

http://www.purplepra...t&product_id=52

http://ncnskincare.c...p6elmllkiv3php5

[Luminosity]

I live in the tropics but when I first started wearing hats nobody did and you get a lot of crap. I am fifty now and I don't have many wrinkles even though I grew up in the sun in the tropics. Yes, I wear a hat or visor anytime during the day, along with sunglasses. I might not wear them in the shade. It helps if you try on a lot of hats to find those that look good on you. Sometimes I alter, change or decorate hats, as you alter clothes. I may also remove decorations. If you find one that works, buy a lot of them. I add brown or tan leather shoe strings to tie the hats down so they don't blow away in the wind. You can usually tie them in back at the nape of your neck so they don't look that dorky. I can also wear the hat on my back indoors because of the string. You can also put in an elastic or other band at the crown inside the hat to keep in in place. In hot weather, woven straw hats are the coolest. Cloth or polyester hats are hot in hot weather because heat can't escape. By the same token, straw hats don't keep you warm in the winter. A large, wide-brimmed felt hat is a good choice for winter. Old Navy had some a while back. Black, taupe or tan are good colors for a lot of people for a felt hat. You have to work pretty hard not to look like a dork when you wear a hat but it is effective as a sunblock and it also allows you to spend a lot more time outdoors in the heat comfortably. A visor is good while driving because a wide-brimmed hat blocks visibility. They have straw visors that look pretty nice. Otherwise white is nice. It's good to keep in your car. If you get your look together, people will be accept your hats more, but if you ever are mad or otherwise not pleasant or totally normal while wearing a hat, people will be like, oh, it's a wierdo in a hat. But you'll have a lot fewer wrinkles and your hair will be shinier. I just read that all the non-mineral sunblock ingredients are not healthy. Don't know if it's true, but they do irritate my skin every time.

Edited by Luminosity, 29 May 2012 - 03:26 AM.

[Hebbeh]

Zinc may not be such a good idea.........

http://www.scienceda...20507131951.htm

Sunscreen Ingredient May Increase Skin Cancer Risk


ScienceDaily (May 7, 2012) — As vacationers prepare to spend time outdoors this summer, many of them will pack plenty of sunscreen in hopes it will protect their bodies from overexposure, and possibly from skin cancer. But researchers at Missouri University of Science and Technology are discovering that sunscreen may not be so safe after all.

Cell toxicity studies by Dr. Yinfa Ma, Curators' Teaching Professor of chemistry at Missouri S&T, and his graduate student Qingbo Yang, suggest that when exposed to sunlight, zinc oxide, a common ingredient in sunscreens, undergoes a chemical reaction that may release unstable molecules known as free radicals. Free radicals seek to bond with other molecules, but in the process, they can damage cells or the DNA contained within those cells. This in turn could increase the risk of skin cancer.
Ma also found that the longer zinc oxide is exposed to sunlight, the greater the potential damage to human cells.
"Zinc oxide may generate free radicals when exposed to UV (ultraviolet) sunlight," May says, "and those free radicals can kill cells."
Ma studied how human lung cells immersed in a solution containing nano-particles of zinc oxide react when exposed to different types of light over numerous time frames. Using a control group of cells that were not immersed in the zinc oxide solution, Ma compared the results of light exposure on the various groups of cells. He found that zinc oxide-exposed cells deteriorated more rapidly than those not immersed in the chemical compound.
Even when exposed to visible light only, the lung cells suspended in zinc oxide deteriorated. But for cells exposed to ultraviolet rays, Ma found that "cell viability decreases dramatically."
When exposed to ultraviolet long-wave light (ultraviolet A or UVA) for 3 hours, half of the lung cells in the zinc oxide solution died. After 12 hours, 90 percent of the cells in that solution died, Ma found.
Why does zinc oxide, an ingredient used in sunscreen to help block harmful UV rays, cause cells to deteriorate when exposed to sunlight? According to Ma, when the zinc oxide nano-particles in the solution absorb the UV rays, the reaction releases electrons, which in turn may produce unstable free radical molecules in the zinc oxide solution. Those free radical molecules then bond with other molecules and act as parasites, damaging the other molecules in the process.
Ma and his colleagues at Missouri S&T published their initial research results in the January 2009 edition of the Journal of Nanoparticle Research. The paper, titled "Toxicity of nano- and micro-sized ZnO particles in human lung epithelial cells," was the first comprehensive study ever published on this subject. Lead author Weisheng Lin was Ma's Ph.D. student at the time. Other authors of the paper were Chuan-Chin Huang, a graduate student in biological sciences at the time, and two members of S&T's biological sciences faculty, Dr. Katie Shannon (assistant professor) and Dr. Yue-Wern Huang (associate professor).
Now, Ma is preparing to publish his latest research results in the journal Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology. A publication date has not been determined.
Ma's research on zinc oxide's effect on cells is still in the early stages, so he cautions people from drawing conclusions about the safety or dangers of sunscreen based on this preliminary research.
"More extensive study is still needed," May says. "This is just the first step."
For instance, Ma plans to conduct electron spin resonance tests to see whether zinc oxide truly does generate free radicals, as he suspects. In addition, clinical trials will be needed before any conclusive evidence may be drawn from his studies.
In the meantime, Ma advises sunbathers to use sunscreen and to limit their exposure to the sun.
"I still would advise people to wear sunscreen," he says. "Sunscreen is better than no protection at all."
Besides sunscreen, zinc oxide is used in many commercial products, including plastics, paints, ointments and sealants.

[PGN]

Zinc may not be such a good idea.........

http://www.scienceda...20507131951.htm

Sunscreen Ingredient May Increase Skin Cancer Risk


ScienceDaily (May 7, 2012) — As vacationers prepare to spend time outdoors this summer, many of them will pack plenty of sunscreen in hopes it will protect their bodies from overexposure, and possibly from skin cancer. But researchers at Missouri University of Science and Technology are discovering that sunscreen may not be so safe after all.

Cell toxicity studies by Dr. Yinfa Ma, Curators' Teaching Professor of chemistry at Missouri S&T, and his graduate student Qingbo Yang, suggest that when exposed to sunlight, zinc oxide, a common ingredient in sunscreens, undergoes a chemical reaction that may release unstable molecules known as free radicals. Free radicals seek to bond with other molecules, but in the process, they can damage cells or the DNA contained within those cells. This in turn could increase the risk of skin cancer.
Ma also found that the longer zinc oxide is exposed to sunlight, the greater the potential damage to human cells.
"Zinc oxide may generate free radicals when exposed to UV (ultraviolet) sunlight," May says, "and those free radicals can kill cells."
Ma studied how human lung cells immersed in a solution containing nano-particles of zinc oxide react when exposed to different types of light over numerous time frames. Using a control group of cells that were not immersed in the zinc oxide solution, Ma compared the results of light exposure on the various groups of cells. He found that zinc oxide-exposed cells deteriorated more rapidly than those not immersed in the chemical compound.
Even when exposed to visible light only, the lung cells suspended in zinc oxide deteriorated. But for cells exposed to ultraviolet rays, Ma found that "cell viability decreases dramatically."
When exposed to ultraviolet long-wave light (ultraviolet A or UVA) for 3 hours, half of the lung cells in the zinc oxide solution died. After 12 hours, 90 percent of the cells in that solution died, Ma found.
Why does zinc oxide, an ingredient used in sunscreen to help block harmful UV rays, cause cells to deteriorate when exposed to sunlight? According to Ma, when the zinc oxide nano-particles in the solution absorb the UV rays, the reaction releases electrons, which in turn may produce unstable free radical molecules in the zinc oxide solution. Those free radical molecules then bond with other molecules and act as parasites, damaging the other molecules in the process.
Ma and his colleagues at Missouri S&T published their initial research results in the January 2009 edition of the Journal of Nanoparticle Research. The paper, titled "Toxicity of nano- and micro-sized ZnO particles in human lung epithelial cells," was the first comprehensive study ever published on this subject. Lead author Weisheng Lin was Ma's Ph.D. student at the time. Other authors of the paper were Chuan-Chin Huang, a graduate student in biological sciences at the time, and two members of S&T's biological sciences faculty, Dr. Katie Shannon (assistant professor) and Dr. Yue-Wern Huang (associate professor).
Now, Ma is preparing to publish his latest research results in the journal Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology. A publication date has not been determined.
Ma's research on zinc oxide's effect on cells is still in the early stages, so he cautions people from drawing conclusions about the safety or dangers of sunscreen based on this preliminary research.
"More extensive study is still needed," May says. "This is just the first step."
For instance, Ma plans to conduct electron spin resonance tests to see whether zinc oxide truly does generate free radicals, as he suspects. In addition, clinical trials will be needed before any conclusive evidence may be drawn from his studies.
In the meantime, Ma advises sunbathers to use sunscreen and to limit their exposure to the sun.
"I still would advise people to wear sunscreen," he says. "Sunscreen is better than no protection at all."
Besides sunscreen, zinc oxide is used in many commercial products, including plastics, paints, ointments and sealants.

Interesting, but have to remember this is a lab experiment using nano and micro-sized particles on lung cells. What if the zinc is larger, does the same thing happen? That's what I'd want to know.. They are assuming it "could" lead to cancer, what kind of cancer, squamous cell, basal cell, melanomas? Also keep in mind, the most common skin cancers, BCC and SCC are easily treated, and they seldom become fatal (less than 1%). Melanomas are much rarer and these are fatal if untreated. But, I do think many chemical sunscreen ingredients have equal potential for cell and DNA damage from degradation due to sun exposure. Are there studies for those?

Ultimately, as a consumer, you need to weigh the risks/benefits of using SS. I try to choose the least risky options and use it only when necessary. I prefer the powder mineral SS because they sit on top of the skin. They aren't nano-sized particles. I make a point of holding my breath when applying it so as to not inhale it. I only use SS when I really need to. I don't wear it while inside the house. I don't bother if out early in the morning, or driving in the car for a short time Some sun hitting your skin is beneficial because your body needs vitamin D. It's especially ironic because vitamin D (which is produced naturally when the sun;s rays hit your skin) has been found to be critical for preventing certain cancers, especially breast cancers. We now have a vitamin D deficiency epidemic because people overuse SS and hide from the sun from fear of getting skin cancer and aging...which I agree CAN happen if you lay out in it for hours at a time. Moderation is key. My skin barrier is in good shape, it doesn't burn easily. I eat foods and take supplements to build up my skin's resistance to sunburn. I never put any physical SS on my body unless out for hours in direct sun, laying on the beach, or pool before 5 pm. After 5 pm, I don't bother. I just do my face, neck, chest and hands because those areas are more prone to show sun damage. I live in TX and I haven't burnt yet while using this approach. I love being outside and soaking up some rays. Just have to be sensible about it.

[PGN]

Interesting, but have to remember this is a lab experiment using nano and micro-sized particles on lung cells. What if the zinc is larger, does the same thing happen? That's what I'd want to know.. They are assuming it "could" lead to cancer, what kind of cancer, squamous cell, basal cell, melanomas? Also keep in mind, the most common skin cancers, BCC and SCC are easily treated, and they seldom become fatal (less than 1%). Melanomas are much rarer and these are fatal if untreated. But, I do think many chemical sunscreen ingredients have equal potential for cell and DNA damage from degradation due to sun exposure. Are there studies for those?

Ultimately, as a consumer, you need to weigh the risks/benefits of using SS. I try to choose the least risky options and use it only when necessary. I prefer the powder mineral SS because they sit on top of the skin. They aren't nano-sized particles. I make a point of holding my breath when applying it so as to not inhale it. I only use SS when I really need to. I don't wear it while inside the house. I don't bother if out early in the morning, or driving in the car for a short time Some sun hitting your skin is beneficial because your body needs vitamin D. It's especially ironic because vitamin D (which is produced naturally when the sun;s rays hit your skin) has been found to be critical for preventing certain cancers, especially breast cancers. We now have a vitamin D deficiency epidemic because people overuse SS and hide from the sun from fear of getting skin cancer and aging...which I agree CAN happen if you lay out in it for hours at a time. Moderation is key. My skin barrier is in good shape, it doesn't burn easily. I eat foods and take supplements to build up my skin's resistance to sunburn. I never put any physical SS on my body unless out for hours in direct sun, laying on the beach, or pool before 5 pm. After 5 pm, I don't bother. I just do my face, neck, chest and hands because those areas are more prone to show sun damage. I live in TX and I haven't burnt yet while using this approach. I love being outside and soaking up some rays. Just have to be sensible about it.

And to make things even more unclear, the American Academy of Dermatology says the total opposite and refutes there is any danger of nanoparticles in SS in this article.... http://www.scienceda...20515202122.htm

Have to take everything you read with a grain of salt. There may be some element of truth to both arguments, but only time will tell, with longer studies on real people using nanoparticles in real-world conditions

Edited by PGN, 29 May 2012 - 04:06 PM.

[PGN]

For those interested, some Information on Vitamin D from natural sunlight, and why it's so important for health. Vitamin D council is a non-profit organization:

http://www.vitamindc...bout-vitamin-d/

[Hebbeh]

I whole heartedly agree that moderation is the key to virtually everything in life. It appears to me that everybody I know that lived a very long and healthy life practiced moderation in all aspects.

[Luminosity]

The experiment is too far from anything that happen in real life to get excited about.