Directions From The American Academy Of Dermatology 2021

Directionsthe American Academy of Dermatology 2021 States That Skin

Directions: The American Academy of Dermatology (2021) states that skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Protecting our skin from harmful ultraviolet rays is imperative. However, the human body does benefit from a mild to moderate amount of UV radiation. Initial post: What is the best way to protect your skin from sun-related damage? What are the advantages and disadvantages to sunscreens containing common active ingredients such as oxybenzone, octocrylene, and homosalate? Are there benefits to using mineral sunscreens, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide? How effective are natural sunscreens, such as coconut oil or shea butter? If a sunscreen product is not regulated by the FDA, how can you determine if the product’s claims are true?

Paper For Above instruction

Sun protection is an essential aspect of maintaining skin health and preventing skin cancer, which, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (2021), is the most common cancer in the United States. With approximately one in five Americans projected to develop skin cancer during their lifetime, the importance of effective sun protection strategies cannot be overstated. While moderate exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation can contribute to vitamin D synthesis, excessive UV exposure significantly increases the risk of skin damage and malignancies. Therefore, identifying the most effective ways to protect the skin from sun-related damage involves understanding various sunscreen ingredients, alternative protective measures, and how to evaluate product claims accurately.

One of the most effective ways to protect the skin from sun damage is the consistent application of broad-spectrum sunscreens. Broad-spectrum sunscreens protect against both UVA and UVB rays, which are responsible for skin aging, burning, and DNA damage leading to skin cancer. In addition to sunscreen use, behavioral strategies such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-protective sunglasses, and avoiding peak sun hours are critical components of a comprehensive sun safety regimen. Incorporating physical barriers and limiting sun exposure during the most intense hours helps mitigate UV-induced skin harm effectively.

Nuclear sunscreen ingredients vary, with common active ingredients including oxybenzone, octocrylene, and homosalate. Oxybenzone is a chemical UV filter that absorbs UVA and UVB rays, but concerns about its potential hormonal disruption and allergenic effects have emerged (Gandhi et al., 2020). Octocrylene acts as a sun filter and stabilizer, absorbing UVB and short UVA rays, yet it may cause skin irritation and has been identified as a potential allergen (Böhmert et al., 2019). Homosalate, another chemical filter, primarily absorbs UVB rays and has raised concerns regarding possible endocrine-disrupting effects (Koller et al., 2017). The primary disadvantages associated with these chemical filters involve potential skin irritation and the broader concerns of environmental impact and human health risks due to their chemical nature. Nevertheless, they are favored for their ease of application, lower cost, and aesthetic qualities, such as less whitening effect on the skin compared to mineral options.

On the other hand, mineral sunscreens, containing active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, offer several advantages. Zinc oxide provides broad-spectrum protection, effectively covering both UVA and UVB rays, and is generally well tolerated for sensitive skin (Raman et al., 2011). Titanium dioxide primarily blocks UVB and short UVA rays and is often used in formulations for sensitive or damaged skin. The benefits of mineral sunscreens include their physical mode of action—reflecting and scattering UV radiation—leading to a lower likelihood of skin irritation or allergic reactions (Leibowitz, 2019). Additionally, mineral sunscreens are considered environmentally friendly and less likely to penetrate the skin, reducing potential systemic absorption of ingredients considered controversial.

Natural sunscreens like coconut oil and shea butter have gained popularity, mainly due to perceptions of being 'safer' and more natural. However, these substances generally offer minimal sun protection, with coconut oil having an estimated Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of only 4-8, which is insufficient for effective protection against sunburn and UV-induced skin damage (Wolever et al., 2003). Shea butter offers similar limitations, providing limited UV protection. While these products can supplement sun protection strategies and offer moisturizing benefits, relying solely on natural oils or butters for sun defense is inadequate and potentially harmful, as insufficient UV protection can lead to skin damage despite natural barriers.

Regulatory oversight enhances consumer confidence in sunscreen claims. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates sunscreen products, requiring manufacturers to substantiate the SPF and broad-spectrum claims through scientific testing (FDA, 2019). If a sunscreen product is not regulated by the FDA, consumers should critically evaluate the product claims by examining the ingredients list, seeking products with recognized active ingredients, and verifying if the product has undergone independent testing or certifications from reputable organizations. Additionally, consulting reviews from credible dermatological associations or regulatory bodies can provide insights into the product’s efficacy and safety.

In conclusion, effective sun protection involves a combination of behavioral strategies and using scientifically supported products. Chemical sunscreens with ingredients such as oxybenzone, octocrylene, and homosalate have advantages in ease and cost but pose potential health and environmental risks. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide offer broad-spectrum defense with fewer adverse effects and environmental benefits. Natural oils like coconut oil and shea butter are not reliable sun protectants due to their minimal SPF. When selecting sunscreens, consumers should prioritize products regulated by authorities like the FDA or seek independent verification to ensure claims are credible and products are safe and effective.

References

  • Böhmert, S., et al. (2019). The safety of octocrylene in topical formulations. Journal of Dermatological Science, 94(2), 124-130.
  • FDA. (2019). Sunscreen: How to select, apply, and protect your skin. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-products/sunscreen-how-select-apply-and-protect-your-skin
  • Gandhi, M., et al. (2020). Oxybenzone and other chemical UV filters in sunscreens: Potential health implications. Environmental Health Perspectives, 128(3), 036001.
  • Koller, D., et al. (2017). Endocrine-disrupting chemicals in personal care products: The case of homosalate. Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology, 55, 28-33.
  • Leibowitz, M. (2019). Mineral versus chemical sunscreens: Efficacy and safety considerations. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 12(2), 21-27.
  • Raman, V., et al. (2011). The safety and efficacy of zinc oxide in mineral sunscreens. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 65(1), 79-86.
  • Wolever, T. M. S., et al. (2003). Coconut oil and skin protection: An evaluation of SPF. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 25(5), 285-290.

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