Sunscreens not Effective to protect from Sun: Study

Sunscreens offer no significant help in providing protection from the Sun and might even cause cancer, according to two studies on skin cancer conducted in the US and the UK.

Results of a new study from the British Association of Dermatologists mentioned that sunburns were reported by 72% people who spent time outdoors in the summer months from June to August, despite being warned to use sunscreens when visiting the beach or spending time outdoors.

A new study in the US has showed that inferior sun protection is provided by 80% of sunscreens. Besides, they contain worrisome ingredients like oxybenzone and vitamin A. The study, conducted by an American environmental group, suggested that oxybenzone can disrupt the hormone system.

The British study has warned that double-fold risk of melanoma is posed by the 72% segment. Melanoma is not as prevalent as other skin cancers are, but it still causes 75% of deaths related to skin cancer. Highest rates of melanoma in the world have been recorded in Australia and New Zealand.

British researchers have to say that people might not be using the right kind of sunscreen, which could be a factor in causing skin cancer to them. Other factors are: not reapplying sunscreen often enough or spending extra time out in the sun thinking sunscreen makes them invincible.

“This research adds important evidence showing that sunscreen has a role, but that you shouldn't just rely on this to protect your skin”, said Dr. Julie Sharp of Cancer Research UK, one of the authors of the new study.

Experts advise people to pay extra attention while they choose sunscreens to ensure they are effective against both UVA and UVB light.

Malignant melanoma is the most common type of cancer in the United States and the fifth most common cancer in the UK.