All articles tagged with #sun safety
Online claims that sunscreen causes skin cancer are circulating amid Europe’s heatwave. Dermatologists and cosmetic chemists say there’s no evidence linking sunscreen to cancer, noting that rising skin cancer rates are more likely due to an ageing population, better detection, and improper sunscreen application. Sunscreens are tightly regulated in the UK and US, making these claims unfounded.
A new social-media craze called tanmaxxing promotes prolonged sun exposure, skipping sunscreen, tanning oils, and even tanning beds to achieve the darkest tan. Dermatologists warn it raises DNA damage, accelerates skin aging, and increases skin cancer risk, fueled by online misinformation and dramatic before-and-after posts. Public health experts urge safer practices (broad-spectrum SPF 30+, shade, protective clothing) and safer alternatives like self-tanners, while noting sunscreen misinformation among youth is common.
Dermatologists warn that minimal-coverage bikini cuts expose skin that has rarely or never seen sun (such as the lower buttocks and posterior thighs), potentially increasing melanoma risk as intermittent, high-intensity UV exposure replaces prior patterns. Past studies linked bikini wear to higher trunk melanoma risk and show that melanoma risk tracks clothing and activity, with UV-naive skin possibly following distinct cancer pathways. Misinformation about sun safety among Gen Z and ongoing fashion trends make full-body skin checks and precautionary sunscreen or UPF coverups especially important, with case examples of melanoma arising in unexamined, sun-exposed areas.
Three common sun-safety mistakes can raise skin-cancer risk: underusing sunscreen (about 1 ounce for the whole body and reapplying every two hours or after swimming/sweating); skipping sunscreen indoors since UV rays can still reach you through car windows and on the left side; and intentional tanning, including tanning beds, which dermatologists say is never safe and increases melanoma risk.
A PLOS Digital Health study analyzed the 971 most-viewed sunscreen videos on TikTok in Sept 2024 and found widespread sunscreen misinformation—claims that ingredients are toxic or endocrine disruptors—though researchers note no evidence that common sunscreen ingredients are harmful; about 86% of videos promoted sunscreen, 6% critiqued it, and 7% were neutral, while misinformation appears to drive engagement; dermatologists warn that public sun-safety knowledge is weak, with quizzes showing many Americans struggle to protect themselves from sun damage.
The90 unveils The Gem, a pendant necklace with UVA/UVB sensors that feeds real-time sun exposure data to a companion app, building a personalized skin profile and delivering actionable guidance—from UV thresholds to sunscreen reminders and optimal exposure windows. Created by former Fitbit executive Stacy Salvi, the device is available now for $300, with a limited-time $200 early-bird price.
TRICARE covers skin cancer screening as part of its annual Health Promotion and Disease Prevention exams with little to no copay for individuals at risk (family/personal history, high sun exposure, or suspected precursor lesions). The article emphasizes prevention and sun safety—shade, protective clothing, wide-brim hats, UV-blocking sunglasses, and SPF 15+ sunscreen—and teaches the melanoma warning signs (A-B-C-D-E), encouraging patients to schedule yearly TRICARE exams and discuss skin changes with their providers, with CDC/NCI resources referenced.
The author emphasizes the importance of daily sunscreen use for skin protection, sharing personal routines and struggles with societal beauty standards favoring tanned skin, and advocates for embracing natural skin tone while maintaining sun safety.
Guernsey's culture is less focused on sun safety compared to Australia, where government initiatives promote sun protection, leading to increased awareness and habits among residents. Islanders like Megan Chapple and others suggest that Guernsey could improve its sun-safe culture through more awareness and community efforts, especially given the risks of skin cancer. BBC Guernsey has launched a campaign to promote early detection and prevention.
The Virginia Poison Center warns that certain medications can increase skin sensitivity to UV rays and heat, leading to symptoms like nausea, dizziness, and skin rash, especially during hot weather. People are advised to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, stay hydrated, and be aware of medication side effects to prevent heat exhaustion.
A woman shared her experience of suffering third-degree burns after 8 hours in the sun without sunscreen, highlighting the dangers of sun exposure and the importance of proper skin protection to prevent severe burns and skin damage.
The New York State health department warns residents, especially families with children, about the dangers of UV radiation and skin cancer, emphasizing the importance of using broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 15 or 30, reapplying every two hours, and checking expiration dates to stay protected during the sunny summer months.
A 26-year-old woman from Ohio discovered a seemingly harmless mole on her chest was actually melanoma, highlighting the importance of regular skin checks and sun protection to catch skin cancer early and prevent severe health consequences.
Claire Turner, a 43-year-old mother of three from Oxfordshire, England, is battling terminal stage four skin cancer, which she attributes to sunbed use and sunburns in her twenties. Diagnosed with cutaneous malignant melanoma that has spread to various parts of her body, Turner is now advocating for awareness about the dangers of UV exposure. Despite her condition, she continues to enjoy life with precautions, urging others to protect their skin and avoid sunbeds.
Dermatologists who have experienced skin cancer themselves share crucial warnings to help others detect and prevent the disease. Key points include the risk of skin cancer under nails, the dangers of indoor tanning, the importance of checking between toes, recognizing non-healing sores, understanding that not all melanomas follow typical signs, the potential for misdiagnosis with conditions like eczema, and the fact that skin cancer can affect all skin tones. Early detection and sun safety practices are emphasized as vital for prevention and treatment.