Is it safe to use sunscreens on my children?

Cancer is something everyone fears. Each year approximately 1.3 million people are diagnosed with skin cancer alone.

Is anyone really safe?  What can we do to protect ourselves? 

Actually, some of the things we have been doing may be doing more harm than good. Sunscreens may fall into this category.

I thought sunscreens were supposed to prevent cancer. Right, me too. So lets look at some current research. A combination of the following five chemicals are found in most sunscreens:

1.  Octyldimethyl-PABA (OD-PABA)

2.  Benzophenone-3 (BP-3)

3.  Homosalate (HMS)

4.  Octyl-methoxycinnamate (OMC)

5.  4-methly-benzylidene camphor (4-MBC).

According to Professor Howard Maibach, "Up to 35% of the chemicals in sunscreens enter the bloodstream." These chemicals have been found in urine, breast milk and in the gastrointestinal tract. They have been linked to certain developmental problems and various types of cancer….not just skin cancer. So you mean to tell me that while I'm trying to protect my children from skin cancer, I could actually be causing them other problems." That is EXACTLY what I am saying. Skin cancer rates have increased since sunscreens were introduced. Sunscreens were designed to block UVB rays, but are relatively ineffective in blocking UVA rays. UVA rays out number UVB rays approximately 100:1. Excess exposure to UVA rays has been shown to suppress the immune system, stimulate the aging process, and increase the occurrence of melanoma, a form of skin cancer. Daily exposure to the sun is very healthy if it is both gradual and moderate. It stimulates the production of melanin and promotes the conversion of Vitamin D. Be safe and be smart. Stay out of the sun during the hottest times of the day, especially if you are in the water, which intensifies the UV rays.

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