The Un necessity of Sunscreen and its Variations Explored

The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified ultraviolet (UV) radiation as a risk factor for skin cancer. Amidst the ongoing debate about sun protection, a German dermatologist, Fabian Kowallik, has been making waves with his unconventional recommendations.

Kowallik advocates for a more natural approach to sun protection, suggesting the use of a mixture of zinc oxide and coconut oil. However, he has not addressed the accusation that this recommendation could potentially promote problematic sun protection practices. Dermatologist Eckard Breitbart emphasises the importance of application in proper sun protection, but questions remain open regarding the mixing of zinc oxide and coconut oil, such as the resulting sun protection factor and the areas of UV radiation coverage.

Experts recommend using sunscreens with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or 50 when sunbathing. The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment considers concentrations of up to 25 percent of nano-zinc oxide safe in sunscreens. However, the mixing ratio, shelf life, and toxicological data of Kowallik's proposed mixture are yet to be determined.

It's important to note that even sunscreen can't fully protect against sun damage. For proper sun protection, Breitbart recommends checking the UV index for the day and taking appropriate measures such as wearing a wide-brimmed hat, a T-shirt, knee-length pants, and shoes that cover the foot, and creaming the rest of the body with sunscreen with an SPF of 30 that "protects both in the UVB and UVA range."

The myth of a "healthy sunburn" persists despite modern scientific evidence showing that sunburn damages skin and increases skin cancer risk. In reality, the best protection against UV radiation is clothing that does not let light through.

However, there are concerns about vitamin D deficiencies, particularly with the increased use of sunscreen. The body produces the necessary vitamin D mainly with the help of UVB rays. While several studies show that the use of sunscreen does not restrict the body's own production of vitamin D under normal circumstances, Carola Berking, a critic of Kowallik's recommendations, notes that someone who protects themselves extremely, "always staying in the shade, always wearing sunscreen, and not letting any sun on their skin," could actually end up with a vitamin D deficiency.

In conclusion, while the debate around sun protection continues, it's crucial to remember that a balanced approach is key. Learning a reasonable way to deal with the sun, as suggested by Kowallik, can help consumers save and potentially avoid risks associated with sunscreens, while also allowing them to have the best of both worlds. The Federal Office for Radiation Protection also recommends avoiding going out at midday and scheduling activities in the morning and afternoon for proper sun protection.