Sunscreen: How To Safely Protect Your Skin From Ultraviolet Radiation
By: RosemarieHickey Date: Mon, 7 Dec 2009 Time: 4:44 PM
Most people by now know that sunscreen is a must in order to protect their skin from the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays. What some people don't know is that there are sunscreens available that are also non toxic and chemical free. Many of the most natural sunscreens found on the market today contain green tea, zinc oxide, and titanium dioxide. These natural compounds are not only safe for our skin, but they also have not been shown to cause any allergic skin reactions.
Green tea is a versatile botanical plant and is being used to treat acne. It is added to sunscreen since it is a powerful antioxidant and helps protect against the development of skin cancer. Since most of us get sunburn now and then, it also helps to reduce sun damage. In addition, green tea reduces inflammation and offers sun protection by scavenging free radicals. It is best used when combined with other natural compounds to help protect the skin from ultraviolet radiation.
There seems to be conflicting evidence whether the chemicals in sunscreen actually cause melanoma. Certain countries such as Australia have the highest incidence of melanoma in the world. Dr. Garland believes that the use of chemical sunscreens has caused an increase in the cases of skin cancer. Yet, other doctors see no correlation with chemical sunscreen and an increase in skin cancer. One thing we can do is limit the amount of time we are out in the sun, wear a wide brim hat, and use protective clothing.
Green tea is an herb, and many scientific studies have documented its many health benefits. It is a powerful antioxidant and studies have demonstrated its benefits in lowering cholesterol, treating acne, and fighting cancer and heart disease. In addition, it has also been shown to improve the health of our skin. This botanical plant is used in sunscreen formulas since it helps repair sun damaged skin. Topical green tea does not block UV rays but instead reduces inflammation. This compound is combined with other natural agents to offer broad spectrum protection.
Titanium dioxide is another compound used in natural sunscreen formulas. This compound is a white opaque mineral that is found in the earth's surface. Despite the claims that this compound may be toxic, future studies have shown that it is non toxic. It is beneficial since it blocks both UVB and short UVA rays. Since it does not block long UVA rays, it needs to be combined with other compounds in order to achieve broad spectrum protection.
Zinc oxide is another important compound that is added to natural sunscreen formulas. This compound is a mineral found in the earth's surface and is a white colored powder. It has been found to offer the broadest protection of any compound, either natural or chemical, to block ultraviolet radiation. This compound is the only one used in sunblock that offers both UVA and UVB protection. Zinc oxide will not cause any allergic skin reactions and it can be used safely by women who are pregnant. In addition, it is the only compound used in sunscreen formulas that is approved by the FDA that can be used on children under 6 months of age.
The use of a natural sunscreen containing zinc oxide, green tea and titanium dioxide is only one way we can help protect our skin from UV radiation. If you have fair skin, it is important that you get regular screenings by your dermatologist annually. In addition, try to avoid being out in the sun during peak hours of the day when the sun is the strongest, between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. A hat with a wide brim is also necessary since it will help block ultraviolet light away from your face. Following these helpful tips will help prevent premature aging of the skin and other more serious diseases from developing.
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