1224
SUNSCREENS
Excessive exposure to sunlight causes wrinkling and skin cancer. Using sunscreens in the summer can reduce lifetime sun exposure by more than 60 percent. However, a study from Newcastle Upon Tyne in England shows that it is not necessary to use sunscreens in northern latitudes from October to March.
Most dermatologists recommend that people who are outside during the warmer months apply sunscreens daily because sweating, toweling and swimming remove sunscreens from the skin. When you apply sunscreens daily, they stick to your skin and are not removed easily. However, all sunscreens leave a layer of gel, cream, ointment or lotion on your skin that is uncomfortable and you feel better when it is washed off.
Sunscreens block some of your skin's ability to absorb vitamin D from sunshine, so protection of your skin must be balanced with your vitamin D requirements. This study shows that people in England don't get enough exposure to sunlight to need sunscreen from October to March. This applies also to the northern parts of North America. More on skin cancer; more on vitamin D.
Is daily use of sunscreens of benefit in the UK? British Journal of Dermatology, 2002, Vol 146, Iss 4, pp 659-662. BL Diffey. Diffey BL, Newcastle Gen Hosp, Reg Med Phys Dept, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE4 6BE, Tyne & Wear, ENGLAND
Checked 6/9/08