In recent years sunscreens have been in the news a lot. Many will wonder if sunscreens are safe after all, as the US FDA is set to immediately review the regulatory requirements for most sunscreens sold in the US.
Yes, sunscreens are safe, and the ECHA recommends their use.
Scientific studies suggest that their regular application protects against skin cancer. The FDA continues to recommend the application of sunscreens, given their recognized public health benefits, along with other sun protection measures, but at the same time is asking for more data on their ingredients.
Sunscreens have a major role in protecting the skin from the sun. The application of a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher:
- Reduces the risk of developing skin cancer.
- Prevents sunburn.
- The aging of the skin is limited.
The active ingredients of sunscreens are divided into two categories, natural or mineral filters and chemical filters. Natural filters reflect solar radiation while chemical filters absorb it.
Common sunscreens are mixtures of different filters.
The FDA is asking for more data on the safety of certain sunscreen ingredients that have been used for years in the US. Questions they are seeking answers to includethe degree of skin absorption of these ingredients and the possible effects on the skin and the body. The FDA identifies two sunscreen ingredients as safe and active: Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.
Two ingredients the FDA does not consider safe and effective: The PABA and trolamine salicylate and does not recommend their use.
The FDA is asking for more safety data on the 12 most commonly used filters in the US, but does not state that they are not safe and does not call for the discontinuation of the use of these filters in sunscreens.
A recent FDA study of four filtering sunscreen ingredients demonstrated systemic absorption through the skin without any identified health effects in individuals. Further work is deemed necessary.
Concerns are raised by the significant transdermal absorption of two chemical filters: oxybenzone and octinoxate and their potential to affect the endocrine system. Laboratory studies on both of these chemical filters have shown a mild estrogen and anti-androgen effect and an increased association with allergic skin reactions, and there is evidence of negative environmental effects. Sunscreens with these two filters are best avoided until the necessary studies are available.
The newer sunscreen filters used in Europe are characterised by particularly good photoprotection against UVA, they are photostable, have minimal transdermal absorption and their use is considered safe. In particularly sensitive categories such as children and pregnant women, it is recommended to apply sun protection exclusively with natural filters.
The use of sunscreen is just one of the many weapons we have to protect ourselves from UV radiation.
Use common sense, ask and ask your dermatologist about protection methods. The dermatologist is the specialist doctor that will answer all your questions about the safety and correct use of sunscreen, and help you choose the right one.
Source : www.edae.gr
