Sunscreen

Summer is around the corner, which means it's time to check your supply of sunscreen.  As you probably know, UV light comes in several flavors, none of which are very good for you, but UVB is the one that can directly damage your DNA, which can lead to skin cancer.  Remember, UV"B" is for Bad.

Most sunscreen contains oxybenzone, an organic chemical which absorbs UVA and UVB radiation.  One study found that it can also penetrate the skin where it promotes the production of free radicals when exposed to light.  This led some consumer groups to release lists and lists of sunscreens that contain or don't contain nanoparticles. 

Consumer Reports tests sunscreens for their efficacy in preventing sunburn and found several which are effective.

One that seems to be okay: Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Sunblock Lotion, SPF 30.  (Effective against sunburn, no oxybenzone)

One to avoid: Coppertone Dry Oil Continuous Spray Sunscreen, SPF 15. (Oxybenzone, nano particles, and does not protect well against sunburn.)

photo: http://www.bertagnolli.net/mandalay.2002.05/sunscreen.jpg

Caffeine is good for your skin

If, this summer at the beach or poolside, you find yourself wondering why that guy just poured his Starbucks Americano all over himself, or why that woman is hooked up to an IV drip of Diet Coke, look at their cancer-free skin and remember that caffeine is good for the skin in two ways. First, it prevents UV-damaged cells from multiplying and becoming cancerous. Second, it acts as a sunscreen.

This is not to detract from the well-established role that regular sunscreen plays in preventing excess sun damage to our skin.