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Sunscreen plays a large role in the reduction of skin cancer by limiting the UV exposure
Unprotected sun exposure is the most preventable risk factor for skin cancer. More than 3.5 million new cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed in the United States this year, affecting 2 million people.
At current rates, ONE in FIVE Americans will develop skin cancer . |
Individuals who have light complexions should use a sunscreen with a protection of at least 30. Other individuals should use a sunscreen with at least a protection level of 15. All sunscreens should state they protect against UVA and UVB rays.
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Sanctuary MedSpa
Dr. Rosalind Mitchell, MD
Medical Director
450 East Yosemite Ave
suite C
Merced, CA 95340
384-7500
Call for your complimentary skin consultation Today |
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SUNSCREEN: RECOMMENDATIONS
Sunscreen products contain one or more active drug ingredients -- compounds that absorb, scatter or reflect UV light
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The American Academy of Dermatology has restated its position on the safety and effectiveness of sunscreens to protect against the damaging effects from exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. As one component of a daily sun-protection strategy, sunscreen is an important tool in the fight against skin cancer, including melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.
As Medical Director of Sanctuary Medspa, Dr Rosalind Mitchell recommends several wellness practices for the summer. She recommends reducing the risk of skin cancer and premature aging, by generously applying a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen -- that protects against both types of ultraviolet radiation (UVA and UVB).
In addition she has recommended using a SPF 30 or higher, in conjunction with other sun-safe practices such as limiting sun exposure, seeking shade, and wearing sun-protective clothing, hats and sunglasses
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Sunscreen:
SAFETY
Recent media reports have questioned the health risks of some sunscreen ingredients, specifically oxybenzone and retinyl palmitate, as well as the use of nanotechnology in sunscreen
Retinyl palmitate is a form of vitamin A (retinol), but is not an active drug ingredient in sunscreen. When used in sunscreenretinyl palmitate serves cosmetic purposes as an antioxidant to improve product performance against the aging effects of UV exposure, or to enhance product aesthetic qualities
A few studies have attempted to link retinyl palmitate to increased skin cancer ; however, use of sunscreen with retinyl palmitate has not been shown to increase the risk of skin cancers.
Oxybenzone has been approved for use by the FDA since 1978. Dr Mitchell points out that contrary to recent reports, there is no link between oxybenzone in sunscreen and hormonal alterations, or other significant health issues in humans. Review of scientific literature and decades of public use does not support the flury of recent media reports.
Oxybenzone is one of the few FDA-approved ingredients that provide effective broad-spectrum protection from UV radiation.
Nanotechnology ,conversion of large particles into smaller agents, is actively being developed in medicine. The broad-spectrum sunscreen active ingredients titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are large particle agents that leave a white residue on the skin following application. However, when these active ingredients are converted into
nanoparticles - smaller, lighter molecules
they appear to vanish on the skin, do not leave a residue, and retain and enhance their ability to block UVA and UVB light.
The main benefits of nanoparticles in sunscreens is that the small molecules can provide more protection and more even coverage on the skin's surface than larger particles.
Current studies find the skin is an effective barrier from toxic effects of sunscreen additives and nanotechnology.
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SUNSCREEN:
Vitamin D Production
Unprotected UV exposure to the sun or indoor tanning devices is a known risk factor for the development of skin cancer. Since sun exposure is responsible for vitamin D production in the skin, wearing sunscreen can decrease the skin's production of vitamin D, but alternative and safer options are available to obtain your vitamin D.
Dr. Mitchell also notes "Individuals who properly and consistently wear sunscreen or use other UV protective measures, and are concerned about their vitamin D, should discuss obtaining sufficient vitamin D from foods and/or vitamin supplements with their doctor.
Vitamin D supplementation is strongly promoted at Sanctuary MedSpa
Vitamin D is critical in providing the visable quality of response to our laser resurfacing and skin care treatments." |
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