Dangers of Suntan Lotion
Suntan lotion is designed to protect our skin from the sun's harmful UV rays. However, many people don't realize the dangers associated with this common household skin product. Risks include everything from minor skin irritations to potential cancer-causing reactions, though many of these claims lack conclusive evidence and are still under investigation by scientists.
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History
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Suntan lotion was first developed in the early 1970s using an active ingredient called para-aminobenzoic acid or PABA. Like all active ingredients in suntan lotions, PABA acts to absorb and redirect the sun's rays. Today, we know that PABA causes skin irritations and genetic mutations in skin cells, as it redirects UV light towards the skin cells rather than away from them. The chemical is now illegal in the United States and many other western nations. This is just one example in which suntan lotion opinions and regulations have changed according to scientific evidence.
Skin Irritations
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Allergies to suntan lotion are relatively common and can be aggravated by fragrances, preservatives or active ingredients in the lotion. Reactions are commonly split into two categories: "contact" reactions caused by the lotion's direct contact with the skin and "photoallergic" reactions caused by the combination of sun exposure and the lotion itself. The most common reaction is a localized rash which can be remedied by discontinuing the use of the lotion and applying topical ointment. Many hypoallergenic lotions are now available which do not use the offending agents.
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UVA vs UVB
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There are two main spectrums of sunlight: UVA and UVB. Most suntan lotions only block surburn-inducing UVB rays. However UVA spectrum rays really penetrate deeper into the skin and cause potential long-term damage. Recent evidence has shown that skin cancer rates are higher than ever, despite increased public awareness. Statistics show that people using UVB-only suntan lotion are subjecting themselves to prolonged UVA exposure and potential skin damage.
Nanoparticles
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Recent evidence suggests that the use of active ingredients such as zinc oxide in nanoparticle form may pose a health risk. Zinc oxide is usually visible on the skin in white blotches. However, in order to achieve a more transparent product, many suntan lotions now contain nanoparticles which are one million times smaller than a grain of sand. There is a concern that these tiny particles are small enough to enter skin cells and cause genetic mutations. It remains a subject of debate; however, a review published in early 2009 by the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration concluded that these particles remain on the outside of the skin and pose no health threat.
Vitamin D Deficiency
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Through sun exposure, the human body produces vitamin D, a nutrient essential for the development and maintenance of strong bones. Most government health guidelines recommend a small amount of unprotected sun exposure in order to produce the vitamin. However, scientists are now finding that people aren't getting enough sun. Endocrinologist Professor Peter Ebeling, head of Osteoporosis Australia has demonstrated a link between osteoporosis patients suffering broken bones and Vitamin D deficiencies in their bodies.
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