Skin Care Myths Explained

By Lee Peterson

There are so many myths about proper skin care, that it's
scary. From old wife's tales about preventing stretch marks
during pregnancy to what's mandatory for proper cleansing,
the falsehoods that are taken for granted have most
dermatologists shaking their heads in discord. According to
many skin care specialists, some of these myths can actually
lead to skin damage. Here we dispel five of the common fishy
tales regarding skin care.

1. Prepare your skin for summer sun on a tanning bed.
Tanning beds are dangerous because of the concentrated UVA
rays they emit. These are the same rays you get from the sun
that cause premature aging and skin cancer. Getting a light
tan on the sun bed does not protect your skin from further
damage, it just means you have already exposed it to harmful
rays. Tanning does not produce more melanin in the skin, it
just brings it to the surface.

2. Application of olive oil can prevent pregnancy stretch
marks. Stretch marks are caused when the sub-surfaces of the
dermis split, usually due to expansion of the skin beyond
its elasticity ability. This can occur during pregnancy or
because of excessive weight gain. There are no topical
preparations that will prevent this scarring from occurring.
A healthy diet, hydration and regular exercise are the best
ways to ensure your dermis remains healthy and retains its
elasticity.

3. Increasing the SPF means you can stay out in the sunshine
much longer. This is truly an unsafe belief. A sunscreen
with an SPF of 15 will block approximately 94% of UV rays.
Increasing to an SPF of 40 will only block 97% of UV rays.
Increasing the SPF does not significantly increase the
protection. What's more important is to ensure the sun block
you purchase protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Another
must is to apply the protection before you venture out in
the sun and then reapply sun screen every couple of hours,
regardless of whether you got wet or not.

4. You don't need sunscreen if you have dark skin. A darker
skin tone, whether a Mediterranean olive-toned complexion or
the skin tone of a person of color, does not give the person
extra protection from the sun. It only means that they have
an increased level of melanin. Although this does decrease
the risk of skin cancer from the harmful UVA and UVB rays of
the sun, it is only a slight decrease, and people with
darker skin tones must use sunscreen and take the same
precautions as those with a fairer complexion.

5. Eating chocolate will give you acne. Acne is not caused
by anything you eat. Acne occurs when the dead cells that
your skin sheds stick together and block gland openings.
This causes a back up of the oils that naturally occur in
your skin. Bacteria on the skin react to this and make the
condition worse. One type of food is not going to cause
acne, but a healthy diet will promote a healthier skin and
body.

SUN Safety

Triple digit weather has hit the SW and heat advisories are issued for the next several days.  As summer in the northern hemisphere arrives in a few weeks, this can be helpful information for everyone, including your animal companions.

New article - SUN SENSE

more information and article links here


Sun Safety

Hot Weather Tip

Sun Screen Too many ineffective

More sun screen information

Suncreen May be Hiding the Facts

Today the BIG NEWS is about Sunscreen.  Numerous problems remain even after many years of known issues with the chemical ingredients in these products.  Some products listed as safe in the EWG report contain titanium dioxide, which if you note is mentioned in my 2008 posts that follow.  This raises concerns!.

The sad part is that this information has taken so long to get to the public!

Originally posted May 2008


It is very important to take the time to read labels when purchasing sun screen.

You might also want to increase use of vitamin B1 and make a vitamin C solution for a spray bottle. Both help act as sunscreens.

We also suggest using our anti-oxidant organic lotion following sun exposure to prevent dryness and maintain lubricity of your skin.

The following information from another colleague has some valuable tips. We exchanged information a year or so ago and it helped him update his recommendations.

Should you get sunburn, a good way to tame the sting is a tea bath or applying plain tea to those hot, red areas. Many people like to use pure aloe vera.

and another post from July 2008 84% of Sunscreens Unsafe or Ineffective

Sunscreens Revisited -
Sunny weather is here again and with it comes concerns about sun exposure and sunburn. The sun is beneficial for its ability to induce vitamin D production in our bodies. For those people who take cod liver oil in the winter for its vitamin D value, it may be prudent to switch during the sunny summer months to fish oil or krill oil as an omega 3 supplement, which do not contain vitamin D. It may be possible to build up too high a level of vitamin D in the bloodstream. Be aware, however, that research has failed to show any toxicity from vitamin D3 supplementation in adults at dosages as high as 4,000 to 10,000 IU. The synthetic Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) has shown toxic potential. We cannot get too much vitamin D from sun exposure.

Sunscreens are necessary for days with hours of time spent in the sun, especially kids playing baseball, or playing at the park, or swimming. As for sunscreens, I am very concerned about the use of ingredients in most commercial brands. Many of these chemical sunscreens have carcinogenic and/or hormone disrupting effects. These include cinnamates, PABA, oxybenzone, salicylates, benzophenones, and triethenolamine, among others. These ingredients are absorbed through the skin, and can be found in plasma and urine samples after their use in humans. I don't consider them safe for anyone, especially children.

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is contained in many "natural" sunscreens, but this metal has also been implicated as a potential problem in humans. Titanium dioxide has the ability to cause DNA damage in human cells. Although the Environmental Protection Agency has not identified any carcinogenic effects of TiO2, its ability to alter DNA strands is a cause for concern.

Zinc oxide is the only completely safe sunblocking agent. In addition zinc oxide also has anti-inflammatory effects that can help to mitigate damage caused by UV radiation. Zinc oxide blocks both UVA and UVB radiation. Excellent sunscreen products that contain only zinc oxide as the active ingredient are made by UVNaturalUSA.com. Their Sport 30 is the most water repellent of their products. These sunscreens use a transparent zinc oxide that does not create a white mask on the skin. They can be ordered through many online sources and health food stores. These sunscreens are safe for most infants as well. A thin layer works well. If swimming, reapply every 2 hours.

Enjoy the sunny weather. Avoid getting sunburned and be prudent about sun exposure at midday. Wear a hat. Protect your eyes with UV sunglasses. Use a zinc oxide sunscreen. And have fun.

Titanium Dioxide Studies -

Chemical oxidation and DNA damage catalyzed by inorganic sunscreen ingredients.
Dunford R, Salinaro A, Cai L, Serpone N, Horikoshi S, Hidaka H, Knowland J
University of Oxford, Department of Biochemistry, UK.
This is now a known carcinogen titanium dioxide (TiO2) has been noted (US Federal Register, 43FR38206, 25 August 1978) to be an unsafe physical sunscreen because it
reflects and scatters UVB and UVA in sunlight.
However, TiO2 absorbs about 70% of incident UV, and in aqueous environments this leads to the generation of hydroxyl radicals which can initiate oxidations. Using chemical methods, we show that all sunscreen TiO2 samples tested catalyze the photo-oxidation of a representative organic substrate (phenol). We also show that
sunlight-illuminated TiO2 catalyses DNA damage both in vitro and in human cells. These results may be relevant to the overall effects of sunscreens.
PMID: 9414101, UI: 98074912 45: Toxicol Lett 1995 Oct;80(1-3):61-7
*****
Deleterious effects of sunscreen titanium dioxide nanoparticles on DNA: efforts to limit DNA damage by particle surface modification
Serpone, Nick; Salinaro, Angela; Emeline, A.
Proc. SPIE Vol. 4258, p. 86-98, Nanoparticles and Nanostructured Surfaces: Novel Reporters with Biological Applications, Catherine J. Murphy; Ed.
(c) 2001 SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering.
Abstract - Sunlight can have deleterious effects on humans: causes sunburns and is the principal cause of skin cancers. Usage of TiO2 (and ZnO) in sunscreen lotions, widely used as UVA/UVB blockers, and intended to prevent sunburns and to protect consumers from skin cancers (carcinomas and melanomas) is examined. Although used to mineralize many undesired organic pollutants, TiO2 is considered to be a safe physical sunscreen agent because it reflects and scatters both UVB (290-320 nm) and UVA (320-400 nm) sunlight; however, it also absorbs substantial UV radiation which, in aqueous media, yields hydroxyl radial ((DOT)OH) species. These species cause substantial damage to DNA (J. Photochem.Photobio.A:Chem.,111(1997)205). Most importantly, sunlight-illuminated sunscreen TiO2 particles catalyze DNA damage both in vitro and in human cells (FEBS Letters, 418 (1997)87). These results raise concerns on the overall effects of sunscreens and raise the question on the suitability of photoactive TiO2 as a sunscreen component without further studies. The photocatalytically active nature of these metal oxides necessitates some changes since even the TiO2 specimens currently used in suncreams cause significant DNA strand breaks.

Chemical oxidation and DNA damage catalysed by inorganic sunscreen ingredients
FEBS Letters, Vol 418, 24 November 1997, pages 87-90
Copyright © 1997 Federation of European Biochemical Societies. Published by Elsevier Science B.V.
Rosemary Dunford, Angela Salinaro, et al.
University of Oxford, Department of Biochemistry, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Concordia University, Montreal, Que. H3G 1M8, Canada Department of Chemistry, Meisei University, Hino-shi, Tokyo 191, Japan

Abstract - Titanium dioxide (TiO2) has been noted (US Federal Register, 43FR38206, 25 August 1978) to be a safe physical sunscreen because it reflects and scatters UVB and UVA in sunlight. However, TiO2 absorbs about 70% of incident UV, and in aqueous environments this leads to the generation of hydroxyl radicals which can initiate oxidations. Using chemical methods, we show that all sunscreen TiO2 samples tested catalyse the photo-oxidation of a representative organic substrate (phenol). We also show that sunlight-illuminated TiO2 catalyses DNA damage both in vitro and in human cells. These results may be relevant to the overall effects of sunscreens.

Today, 24 May 2010 - from EWG.org
http://www.ewg.org/2010sunscreens/press
http://www.ewg.org/Sunscreen_or_smoke_screen%3F

How And When To Use Sunblock To Prevent Skin Problems

By Amy Nutt

Some people are under the mistaken assumption that the only
time to use sunscreen is on especially hot and sunny days.
The truth is that anytime that were out in the sun, the suns
rays are having a negative impact on our skin. There is a
constant barrage of ultraviolet light that can cause our
skin to age before its time, and it can lead to more serious
skin problems in the long term. Even on days when its not
all that hot outside, it is a good idea to use sunscreen.

With that said, sunscreen is still most needed when a person
is spending a day out in the sun, especially if they're
trying to tan. This is when there is the biggest risk of
sunburn, which is a direct result of intense sun exposure.
Its important to understand how to choose the right
sunscreen for the job. SPF, or sun protection factor, is the
rating system that is used to determine the strength of a
sunscreen. Usually, a minimum sun protection factor of 15 is
recommended for tanning or prolonged sun exposure. However,
much more powerful levels of protection are available -- up
to a 60 SPF rating or more.

There is another factor to consider, as well. There are
multiple types of ultraviolet light rays that are harmful to
the skin -- UVA and UVB. Many sunscreens are designed to
effectively block only one UVB rays, while UVA are actually
the more dangerous type. It is a good idea to look for a
sunscreen that is designed to block both types of rays.
Sunscreens that contain the ingredients zinc oxide,
ecamsule, or avobenzone are the best choices for
full-spectrum protection.

When it comes to just routine daily sun exposure, a full
application of sunscreen isn't really necessary. If you're
just eating lunch outdoors or walking for a little while
outside, then you should be okay just using other skin-care
products that contain minor sunscreens. For example, there
are many facial moisturizers that include enough sunscreen
to protect your skin from the suns rays on a day-to-day
basis.

One of the negative effects associated with sun exposure to
the skin is wrinkling. The sun is one of the primary factors
when it comes to skin starting to look aged before its time.
For people who are concerned about aging and wrinkled skin,
there are special sunscreen treatments that are design both
to reduce and prevent wrinkles. Many of these have high SPF
ratings for maximum protection from the suns light.

Aside from wrinkles, the other major impact of the sun on
human skin is skin cancer. Heavy exposure to the sun without
the proper protection can lead to a person developing deadly
skin cancers. This is one reason why its especially
important to get (http://www.saffronrouge.com/body/sun)
sunscreen that protects against UVA rays. Despite the fact
that UVA doesn't cause any burning sensation or redness, it
is actually the primary cause of skin cancer. So when you're
looking to buy sunscreen, make sure that you make an
educated choice that will truly protect you from skin
problems.

Play safe in the sun and protect your skin with organic
(http://www.saffronrouge.com/body/sun) sunblock for face and
body. Offering a large choice of organic hand creams, body
products including
(http://www.saffronrouge.com/body/body-lotions) body lotions
and hair treatment products.

5 Basic Steps Daily To Look 5 Years Younger

By Charlotte Field

Our skin's primary purpose is to protect us. When we don't
take care of our skin, it can't do its job properly - and it
looks faded and dull. To look years younger, you must take
care of your skin each and every day. However, this does not
mean spending hours each morning in front of the mirror, or
purchasing a closet full of expensive gadgets and products
all promising to make you look 18 again.

By doing 5 basic steps each and every day, your skin will
begin to recover its luster and even its youthful glow.
Let's see what these 5 steps are.

1. Cleanse properly.

Your face needs to be cleansed both in the morning and again
in the evening. Your cleanser should be matched to your
skin type; a gel is often preferred for oily skin; a cream
is better for dry skin types. Your cleanser does not have
to foam to be effective, although if a sudsy face makes you
happy, go ahead and get a cleanser that foams. When you
apply your cleanser, be sure to follow the directions, using
a light touch, and washing gently for at least 30 seconds.
Then rinse well with clean water and pat dry. If you wear
make-up or heavy sunscreen, be sure to wash and rinse twice;
once to remove the make-up and the second time to get down
to business and cleanse your skin.

2. You need a good toner.

In order to fight those damaging "free radicals" we've been
hearing so much about, you'll need a good toner. Your toner
should create an antioxidant shield, balancing the skin's
protective barrier. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic
acid, which holds 1,000 times its weight in water, giving
your skin a real hydration boost. Other ingredients to look
for are vitamin C and white tea, both restorative and
calming. Be sure your toner is ph-balanced, especially if
your cleanser is not.

3. Exfoliate regularly.

A gentle, non-abrasive exfoliation is necessary to clear
dead skin cells from your skin's surface. Exfoliating helps
the skin renewal process and reveals a brighter, clearer
complexion. Exfoliating also allows moisturizers to
penetrate deeper into your skin. Exfoliation is good, but
more is not always better. Be careful not to over-exfoliate
or scrub your skin harshly. If you have oily skin,
over-exfoliating will cause the oil glands to over-produce
oil to compensate for the oil that you have stripped away.
Obviously this can cause more clogging and more shine on an
already oily face. So, exfoliate often, but gently, and your
skin will love you for it.

4. Keep that moisturizer coming.

Hydrate and feed your skin with a good moisturizer. Choose
a quality moisturizer that offers protection from the
elements for your skin , plus offers your skin a good dose
of nutrition along with moisture. Look for vitamins A, C,
and E, yeast, and other ingredients that would "feed" your
face just like you feed your body. Even if your skin is
oily, you still need a good moisturizer to give your face a
healthy dose of nutrition.

5. Sunscreen is for every day.

The daily use of a good sunscreen is your number one defense
against aging skin. About 99% of all the signs of aging can
be directly linked to sun damage. With a little bit of
prevention, you skin can look younger longer. Even simple
day-to-day living exposes you face to the sun, even walking
to your car and, yes, driving in your car. The windshield
is not a sunblock! Check your morning moisturizer to be
sure it contains a sunscreen of 15 SPF. If it does not, be
sure to add a good sunscreen on top of your moisturizer
before you leave the house. If your plans have you outside
for a longer time than normal, be sure to apply one of the
FDA-approved sunscreens. Look for titanium dioxide or zinc
oxide on the label.

What else can you do to look and feel years younger?

Now, just add a bit of regular exercise, healthy food, and
plenty of water to your diet, and you're well on your way to
a glowing complexion. Follow this daily skincare routine
and treat your skin to monthly professional analysis and
treatments with your Skin Care Specialist and that person
smiling back at you in the mirror will look younger and
happier.

Charlotte Field is a Skin Care Specialist offering
(http://www.facialsbycharlotte.com) Facials in Pensacola,
Florida. She specializes in Anti-aging, Relaxation and
Results. Call her today to schedule an appointment at
(http://www.facialsbycharlotte.com/services.html)