Brisbane, Dec 5 (The Conversation) - Sunscreen is widely recognized as a critical component in safeguarding exposed areas of skin against excessive ultraviolet (UV) radiation. However, the past year has seen considerable challenges for sunscreen products.
In June, a report by Choice found that 16 sunscreen products available in Australia did not deliver the SPF protection they advertised. Then, in July, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) suggested reducing the allowable amounts of certain chemical ingredients in sunscreens.
Since these events, several other sunscreens have been recalled or are under review due to either manufacturing defects or inadequate SPF protection, leaving many consumers puzzled over which sunscreens are both safe and effective.
Despite Recent Concerns, Sunscreens Are Effective - There is little evidence suggesting that sunscreens cause cancer; quite the opposite, they are proven to prevent skin cancer. This is particularly crucial in Australia, where two out of three individuals are likely to develop skin cancer over their lifetime.
A randomized controlled trial in Queensland from 1992 to 1996, involving 1,621 participants, revealed that daily sunscreen use reduced squamous cell carcinomas by 40% compared to less frequent use. A decade later, the daily use of sunscreen was linked to a 73% reduction in invasive melanomas. Notably, this study utilized SPF 16 sunscreen, which is relatively low by today’s standards, where SPF 30+ or 50+ is expected.
Ensuring SPF Claims Are Accurate - The TGA regulates the assessment of SPF in sunscreens in Australia, but the testing is conducted by the companies themselves, who then submit results to the TGA. However, independent testing by Choice unveiled that 16 out of 20 Australian sunscreens failed to meet their SPF claims. An ABC investigation highlighted issues with a substandard base ingredient produced by Wild Child Laboratories and questionable SPF testing data from Princeton Consumer Research, both of which affected many brands. The TGA has since advised against using 21 products containing the Wild Child base.
Ingredient Safety - The TGA regularly reviews scientific research related to sunscreen safety and efficacy. July’s review indicated that high doses of homosalate and oxybenzone could disrupt hormones in some animals, although these doses greatly exceeded those from sunscreen usage. The TGA maintains stringent regulation, ensuring that human exposure remains far below harmful levels. Nevertheless, it has proposed reducing the permissible quantities of these chemicals.
While homosalate and oxybenzone are not banned, and there's no need to discard sunscreens with these ingredients, consumers can opt for alternatives if they prefer.
Choosing the Right Sunscreen - When selecting a sunscreen, ensure it has: 1) SPF 30+ or 50+, 2) broad-spectrum UV protection for both UVA and UVB rays, 3) water resistance for lasting performance in hot climates, and 4) TGA approval ("AUST L" number).
Choose a sunscreen you enjoy using, whether it’s a milk, gel, cream, or another variety. Many prefer specialized facial sunscreens and a general product for the rest of the body. Spray-on sunscreens are typically discouraged due to application difficulties.
Applying Enough Sunscreen - For effective protection, sunscreen should be applied 20 minutes prior to sun exposure and reapplied every two hours or after swimming, sweating, or towel-drying. Use approximately one teaspoon for each area: face and neck, back, chest, and each arm and leg. Pay attention to commonly missed spots such as ears, hands, feet, and back of the neck.
Store sunscreen below 30°C, noting the expiration date and following any shaking instructions. If a sunscreen separates even after shaking, it may not function effectively.
Remember, Sunscreen Isn’t All You Need - Beyond wearing sunscreen, sun-protective clothing and a hat, along with sunglasses and seeking shade, provide comprehensive sun protection for extended outdoor exposure, ensuring a sunburn-free summer. (The Conversation)
GRS GRS
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