There is no medical evidence to suggest that sunscreen causes cancer - Photo: Getty
This trend suggests that sunscreen not only fails to protect the skin but is also linked to an increased risk of cancer. Is this true, and should we, or shouldn't we, use sunscreen?
Avoiding sunscreen due to fear of cancer.
According to Yahoo Life, the anti-sunscreen trend began after some doctors on social media claimed that certain sunscreens and the ingredients used in them could be linked to cancer.
According to Dr. Anisha Patel, associate professor of dermatology at the MD Anderson Cancer Center, University of Texas, there is no medical evidence to suggest that sunscreen causes cancer.
She emphasized that although sunscreens were found to contain benzene, a potential contaminant, this substance is not officially used in sun protection factor (SPF) formulations. Sunscreens containing benzene were subsequently recalled from store shelves.
Dr. Patel also noted the differences between chemical and physical sunscreens, as well as the importance of reapplying sunscreen throughout the day.
Sunscreen helps protect the skin from ultraviolet (UV) rays by absorbing or shielding them. It can also help reduce the risk of skin cancer, sunburn, age spots and hyperpigmentation, improve skin texture, slow wrinkle formation, and help the skin maintain its natural elasticity.
Most beauty experts and dermatologists recommend applying sunscreen as the final step in your morning skincare routine, regardless of the time of year, and reapplying it throughout the day depending on how much sun exposure you have.
How to choose sunscreen?
When choosing sunscreen, it's important to select one with a higher SPF because these offer better protection against UV rays. It's also important to choose broad-spectrum sunscreens, as these protect against both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays.
Studies also recommend choosing sunscreens that are water-resistant or waterproof, because when you're near large bodies of water, the sun can reflect and make you more susceptible to sunburn. Applying sunscreen is even more important if you spend the day by the pool or on the beach.
By blocking UVB rays, sunscreen produces another effect. It can limit the body's ability to produce vitamin D, which is crucial for immune system and bone health.
You can obtain some vitamin D through a balanced diet or by taking supplements. However, the primary natural source of vitamin D is sunlight.
To get enough essential vitamins, people with fair skin only need to sunbathe for about 10 to 15 minutes on their face, arms, and legs a few times a week. Those with darker skin may need up to an additional 30 minutes.
Some believe that ultraviolet rays from the sun can cause skin cancer, so supplementing vitamin D through sun exposure is not recommended. UV rays are strongest in spring and summer, in locations closer to the equator, and between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
However, Diya Mutasim, a professor of dermatology at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine (USA), says that "there are some benefits to getting some sun exposure for vitamin D synthesis and for your mood."
Mutasim says it's important to take advantage of the benefits of sun exposure without causing changes to the skin. Slight redness and even a tan indicate sun damage. Many factors, including cloud cover, time of day, and season, can affect how quickly you get sun damage.
Professor Murasim emphasized that it's clear anyone planning to spend extended periods in the sun should have a plan to protect exposed skin. This means applying a water-resistant sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection and an SPF of at least 30.1.
Source: https://tuoitre.vn/kem-chong-nang-co-gay-ung-thu-khong-20240616100056369.htm
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