Tanning without using a quality indoor tanning lotion is kinda like brushing your teeth without toothpaste - yeah, you can do it, but it really doesn't make any sense. Professional indoor tanning lotions are made to give you the fastest, darkest, healthiest looking tan possible for your skin.
When applied, an indoor tanning lotion helps diffuse the UV light that your skin is being exposed to, helping the UV light penetrate a larger area of skin. It also helps to put the vitamins and nutrients back in your skin that the tanning process may use up. Many of the higher quality and higher concentrated tanning lotions contain cosmeceutical ingredients that can help reduce and prevent fine lines and wrinkles, help to firm skin, and even help with cellulite.
There are also specialty lotions that are formulated for your face and legs! Your facial skin is more delicate and harder to tan than the rest of your body. It also have more skin care demands since it is the area that tends to age first. Some people may also find that their legs don't tan as well as the rest of their body. This can be due to shaving or even not rotating enough between booths and beds. Either way there are products you can add to your tanning regimen that will leave you with a glowing complexion and gorgeous gams!
Last, but certainly not least, do not forget to take care of your tan when you go home! It won't benefit your tan if you are using a great tanning product in the beds but then go home and jump in the shower and lather yourself up with moisture stripping bar soap! There are specific products such as tan extending moisturizer and body wash that will preserve, protect, and extend your tanning results. See your salon professional today for their recommendations!
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Dr. Oz Endorses Sunbeds
Source: www.smarttan.com
Friday, January 6th, 2012
Television health guru Dr. Mehmet Oz — better known as “Dr. Oz” — said on his program this week he is re-thinking his position on indoor tanning sunbeds because they are an abundant source of natural vitamin D production as well as other compounds made in the skin.
“The sun provides vitamin D in a very unique way. But it also provides tons of other compounds besides vitamin D.” Oz said in an interview on his own program with health educator Dr. Joseph Mercola. “I am rethinking tanning beds. In the last year I have looked at a lot of information. …I think there is a value of UVB radiation, not just for vitamin D but for other sources as well.”
Oz was commenting on Mercola’s recommendation that use of sunbeds in the winter is a key to good health. Mercola is among those who believe humans need 8,000 IU of vitamin D daily to assure that vitamin D blood levels are in natural range consistent with outdoor living and at levels indicated by hundreds of studies to be associated with lower risk of health problems from cancer to heart disease and autoimmune disorders.
No food source comes close to delivering that level of vitamin D. UVB from sun exposure can make up to 20,000 IU of vitamin D in the skin without the risk of an overdose, as the skin naturally de-metabolizes any extra vitamin D.
When Mercola told Oz that he recommends sunbed usage in the winter Oz’s in-studio crowd reacted in shock.
The two health education icons — in endorsing sunbed usage to make vitamin D — showed that they still do not fully understand all of the photobiology of tanning equipment. Oz suggested that most sunbeds emit UVA but not UVB — and that consumers need to look for equipment that emits measurable UVB.
“Dermatology has been misleading Oz,” Smart Tan Vice President Joseph Levy said. “More than 90 percent of sunbeds today emit UVB and UVA in dosages consistent with natural sunlight. But we’re glad that he seems to be open to the fact that there is a natural benefit to UV from sunlight, and that sunbeds can be a good surrogate for that.”
Oz still says he does not recommend sunbed usage for tanning — just for vitamin D production. “Again, that’s not a straight distinction,” Levy said. “Tanning has nothing to do with vitamin D production — melanin production happens while vitamin D is being produced. They happen at the same time.”
Friday, January 6th, 2012
Television health guru Dr. Mehmet Oz — better known as “Dr. Oz” — said on his program this week he is re-thinking his position on indoor tanning sunbeds because they are an abundant source of natural vitamin D production as well as other compounds made in the skin.
“The sun provides vitamin D in a very unique way. But it also provides tons of other compounds besides vitamin D.” Oz said in an interview on his own program with health educator Dr. Joseph Mercola. “I am rethinking tanning beds. In the last year I have looked at a lot of information. …I think there is a value of UVB radiation, not just for vitamin D but for other sources as well.”
Oz was commenting on Mercola’s recommendation that use of sunbeds in the winter is a key to good health. Mercola is among those who believe humans need 8,000 IU of vitamin D daily to assure that vitamin D blood levels are in natural range consistent with outdoor living and at levels indicated by hundreds of studies to be associated with lower risk of health problems from cancer to heart disease and autoimmune disorders.
No food source comes close to delivering that level of vitamin D. UVB from sun exposure can make up to 20,000 IU of vitamin D in the skin without the risk of an overdose, as the skin naturally de-metabolizes any extra vitamin D.
When Mercola told Oz that he recommends sunbed usage in the winter Oz’s in-studio crowd reacted in shock.
The two health education icons — in endorsing sunbed usage to make vitamin D — showed that they still do not fully understand all of the photobiology of tanning equipment. Oz suggested that most sunbeds emit UVA but not UVB — and that consumers need to look for equipment that emits measurable UVB.
“Dermatology has been misleading Oz,” Smart Tan Vice President Joseph Levy said. “More than 90 percent of sunbeds today emit UVB and UVA in dosages consistent with natural sunlight. But we’re glad that he seems to be open to the fact that there is a natural benefit to UV from sunlight, and that sunbeds can be a good surrogate for that.”
Oz still says he does not recommend sunbed usage for tanning — just for vitamin D production. “Again, that’s not a straight distinction,” Levy said. “Tanning has nothing to do with vitamin D production — melanin production happens while vitamin D is being produced. They happen at the same time.”
Monday, January 2, 2012
Sunny ‘D’ Works Better: Holick
Sunny ‘D’ Works Better: Holick
Friday, December 23rd, 2011
“When you ingest vitamin D, only about 60 percent of it sticks to vitamin D-binding protein, but when you make vitamin D in your skin, 100 percent binds to the protein.” — Dr. Michael F. Holick, vitamin D research pioneer from the Boston University School of Medicine.
Holick’s quote, from his latest book, “The Vitamin D Solution”, points out that every cell in the body has a vitamin D receptor and that vitamin D derived from sun exposure to the skin works 40 percent better to activate the receptor than dietary vitamin D, which is scarce in comparison. Holick also refers to research showing that more than 1 million North Americans have conditions that prevent vitamin D absorption from supplements or diet — making it incredibly obvious that UV exposure to the skin is natural and intended.
Dermatology industry lobbyists have continued to downplay evidence showing that vitamin D does more than simply help the body process calcium for stronger bones. Holick, a professor of medicine at BU who was also an award-winning professor of dermatology at the school, was fired from the dermatology department in 2004 after he published a book titled, “The UV Advantage.” Dr. Barbara Gilchrest, then chair of the dermatology department, called his work “an embarrassment” and “schlock science.”
Almost everything in Holick’s 2004 book has since been validated by thousands of studies, as vitamin D research has been the hottest topic in medicine in the past three years. Gilchrest – who now serves as the editor of the Archives of Dermatology – has not rescinded her comment.
Source: www.smarttan.com
Friday, December 23rd, 2011
“When you ingest vitamin D, only about 60 percent of it sticks to vitamin D-binding protein, but when you make vitamin D in your skin, 100 percent binds to the protein.” — Dr. Michael F. Holick, vitamin D research pioneer from the Boston University School of Medicine.
Holick’s quote, from his latest book, “The Vitamin D Solution”, points out that every cell in the body has a vitamin D receptor and that vitamin D derived from sun exposure to the skin works 40 percent better to activate the receptor than dietary vitamin D, which is scarce in comparison. Holick also refers to research showing that more than 1 million North Americans have conditions that prevent vitamin D absorption from supplements or diet — making it incredibly obvious that UV exposure to the skin is natural and intended.
Dermatology industry lobbyists have continued to downplay evidence showing that vitamin D does more than simply help the body process calcium for stronger bones. Holick, a professor of medicine at BU who was also an award-winning professor of dermatology at the school, was fired from the dermatology department in 2004 after he published a book titled, “The UV Advantage.” Dr. Barbara Gilchrest, then chair of the dermatology department, called his work “an embarrassment” and “schlock science.”
Almost everything in Holick’s 2004 book has since been validated by thousands of studies, as vitamin D research has been the hottest topic in medicine in the past three years. Gilchrest – who now serves as the editor of the Archives of Dermatology – has not rescinded her comment.
Source: www.smarttan.com
Friday, December 23, 2011
Learn more about the 2012 lotions!
We are so excited about all of the new lotions that just came in last month! There are many new formulas and exciting ingredients! Here is a brief synopsis of them!
New Ingredient - Melanobronze
This is perhaps the most exciting (in our opinion) new ingredient! It is a non-staining Melanin builder, WITH OR WITHOUT UV-rays!!! So for all of you cave dwellers get some lotion with this in it and still have some color! HA! Imagine what it does when you actually add UV light!
New Ingredient - ATC Abdomen Tightening System
Reduces soft midsections. What girl (or guy) wouldn't want that! Of course you have to put it on everyday but any little thing to help!
New In the Tanatomy Line
Signature HD
State of the art Super Premium Tanning and Skin Enhancing Lotion works with your skin's natural chemistry and the Science of Self Adjusting Formula. For all skin types and tones; it provides the optimum level of tanning intensifiers yet is DHA bronzer and streak free. High Definition is a personalized prescription for the ultimate tan and superb skin care.
Fragrance: Herbal Apple
Signature Moisturizer
State of the Art Super Tan Enhancing and preserving, deep penetrating lotion. The eight most effective skin-rejuvenating moisturizers and the number one advanced anti-aging complex, plus silicone emulsion, insure a youthful looking, long lasting tan. Use after tanning, after showering/bathing or any time your skin needs intense hydration.
Fragrance: Herbal Apple
Signature Body Wash
State of the Art Super Cleanser and Tan Enhancer and preserving; deep penetrating lotion. The eight most effective non-drying, skin-cleansing ingredients. Use every day, especially after tanning to remove damaging skin pollutants and any time your skin needs rejuvenation.
Fragrance: Herbal Apple
New in the I-Line
iPromise
The exclusive Oil-Free Shimmering Melanocyte Energizer Complex™, advanced Tan Intensifiers and the application and skin texture benefits of Advanced Silicone Emulsion promise you a rich, dark glow. The fabulous golden tan is enhanced with the shimmer of Bronzing Beads and the extra richness provided by sensitive skin friendly immediate and long lasting bronzers; DHA and Streak Free. Fulfill the full potential of your personal promise, a great tan and glowing, irresistible skin.
Fragrance: Bombshell Style
iEnergy
The exclusive High Performance Melanocyte Energizer Complex™, paired with the newest skin energizing compounds, stimulates the darkest level of tanning. Apply the lotion, you can feel the skin energizing action. Immediate and Long Term High Level Bronzers, including revolutionary MelanoBronze, add to the depth and sustaining power of a tan. Enriched Advanced Silicone Emulsion and premium anti-aging, wrinkle-reducing ingredients complete the perfect lotion to prepare for High Energy/High Performance Tanning.
Fragrance: Cool Energy
NEW LINE - Tanique
Tanique Intensifier
The perfect combination of Cosmeceutical skin improvement and tanning technologies in an upscale, easy to use bottle. Inspired by the success and performance of the Largest Department Store Brand, Tanique incorporates the newest ingredients that rejuvenate your skin and produce a glowing tan.
Fragrance: Fragrance / Allergen Free
Tanique Bronzer
The perfect combination of Cosmeceutical skin improvement and tanning technologies in an upscale, easy to use bottle. Inspired by the success and performance of the Largest Department Store Brand, Tanique incorporates the newest ingredients that rejuvenate your skin and produce a dark glowing tan.
Fragrance: Fragrance / Allergen Free
Tanique Face
The perfect combination of Cosmeceutical facial skin improvement and tanning technologies in an upscale, easy to use bottle. Inspired by the success and performance of the Largest Department Store Brand, Tanique incorporates the newest ingredients that renew your skin and produce a soft, elegant tan.
Fragrance: Fragrance / Allergen Free
New in the Bella Soleil Line
Beautiful Sun Dark Bronzer
Inspired by the Mediterranean Sea; European cosmetic and American tanning science. Multiple Tan Intensifiers, intense moisturizers and skin treatment complexes, enhanced with Advanced Silicone Emulsion for even application and glowing, fashion model skin. The deep, dark color is enhanced with an immediate glow and Extreme Levels of Dark Premium Bronzers.
Fragrance: Mediterranean Dreams
Beautiful Sun Facial Bronzing Gelee
Inspired by European cosmetic and American tanning science’s research for perfect, flawless, golden facial skin. The formula’s results include; smooth velvet feeling application, glowing skin, immediate bronzed shimmering color and subdued levels of long term bronzing. It is DHA and streak Free. Additional moisturizing, anti-aging and collagen building compounds contribute to the exceptional results. You must experience Bella’s Facial Bronzing Gelee to appreciate your own radiant face.
Fragrance: Light Mediterranean Dreams
New in the Mineral Sun Line
NANO Bronzer
Immediate rich tan color with the MR Double Bronzing Delivery System™: instant color via Pearl Bronze Mineralized Nano Beads™, microscopic molecules that permeate the skin, and additional bronzing agents. Enhanced color via UV exposure, with premium Tanning Intensifiers. Especially formulated for sensitive skin; the lotion is DHA and Paraben Free; fortified with skin soothing natural minerals.
Fragrance: Romantic Radiance
New in the Unique Collection
Just Sayin'
An awesome tan, gorgeous, radiant skin, it is all yours with Just Sayin’ Ultra Dark Tanning Lotion. Potent rapid Intensifiers, longer lasting ultra dark Bronzers, newly discovered skin treatment compounds and natural Black Currant essence, will produce vibrant, youthful looking, tanned skin. You’ll be the envy of all your friends…we’re Just Sayin’!
Fragrance: Cherry Currant
Wild Attraction
Wild Attraction captures an incredible provocative tan and youthful glowing skin; you can be your wildest, exotic self. A rare combination of Advanced Silicone Emulsion, Zemea™ (natural highly effective humectant), Wild Levels of Bronzers and Age Defying, anti-oxidant cosmeceutical compounds restores natural, youthful looking golden tanned skin. Remember; it’s a jungle out there.
Fragrance: Wild and Delicious
New in the Maximum Collection
Justified
Your whole hip being, is justified by the way you look and feel. Nothing enhances that quality like a perfect, glowing natural Tan. Multiple Immediate Cosmetic Bronzing, but DHA and Streak Free, Justified combines Advanced Silicone Emulsion, a rich menu of natural moisturizing skin rejuvenators, multi-Intensifiers and superb skin care for the deep, rich color you want and the glowing skin you deserve.
Fragrance: Bold Passion
Dark Body
Your whole hip being, is justified by the way you look and feel. Nothing enhances that quality like a perfect, glowing natural Tan. Multiple Immediate Cosmetic Bronzing, but DHA and Streak Free, Justified combines Advanced Silicone Emulsion, a rich menu of natural moisturizing skin rejuvenators, multi-Intensifiers and superb skin care for the deep, rich color you want and the glowing skin you deserve.
Fragrance: Bold Passion
New in the Sun Skin Spa Line
Extreme Bronzer Dark Tanning Serum
Experience the proven results of a Spa while achieving the darkest tan with Extreme Bronzers and state of the art UV Tan intensifiers. The skin enhancing conditioners, moisturizers and therapeutic skin firming complexes insure that the skin will be properly prepared for UV rays and that the life of the resulting tan will be maximized.
Fragrance: Seductive Pleasures
Tan Extending Serum
Experience the pampering care and luxury of a Spa Skin Treatment. Premium Conditioners/Moisturizers, including Advanced Silicone Emulsion, for smooth skin; vitamins, Shea Butter and Sea Microalgae for improved skin resiliency and young, vital looking skin. Ideal to help preserve the life of your tan.
Fragrance: Pomegranate and Cotton Blossom
New Ingredient - Melanobronze
This is perhaps the most exciting (in our opinion) new ingredient! It is a non-staining Melanin builder, WITH OR WITHOUT UV-rays!!! So for all of you cave dwellers get some lotion with this in it and still have some color! HA! Imagine what it does when you actually add UV light!
New Ingredient - ATC Abdomen Tightening System
Reduces soft midsections. What girl (or guy) wouldn't want that! Of course you have to put it on everyday but any little thing to help!
New In the Tanatomy Line
Signature HD
State of the art Super Premium Tanning and Skin Enhancing Lotion works with your skin's natural chemistry and the Science of Self Adjusting Formula. For all skin types and tones; it provides the optimum level of tanning intensifiers yet is DHA bronzer and streak free. High Definition is a personalized prescription for the ultimate tan and superb skin care.
Fragrance: Herbal Apple
Signature Moisturizer
State of the Art Super Tan Enhancing and preserving, deep penetrating lotion. The eight most effective skin-rejuvenating moisturizers and the number one advanced anti-aging complex, plus silicone emulsion, insure a youthful looking, long lasting tan. Use after tanning, after showering/bathing or any time your skin needs intense hydration.
Fragrance: Herbal Apple
Signature Body Wash
State of the Art Super Cleanser and Tan Enhancer and preserving; deep penetrating lotion. The eight most effective non-drying, skin-cleansing ingredients. Use every day, especially after tanning to remove damaging skin pollutants and any time your skin needs rejuvenation.
Fragrance: Herbal Apple
New in the I-Line
iPromise
The exclusive Oil-Free Shimmering Melanocyte Energizer Complex™, advanced Tan Intensifiers and the application and skin texture benefits of Advanced Silicone Emulsion promise you a rich, dark glow. The fabulous golden tan is enhanced with the shimmer of Bronzing Beads and the extra richness provided by sensitive skin friendly immediate and long lasting bronzers; DHA and Streak Free. Fulfill the full potential of your personal promise, a great tan and glowing, irresistible skin.
Fragrance: Bombshell Style
iEnergy
The exclusive High Performance Melanocyte Energizer Complex™, paired with the newest skin energizing compounds, stimulates the darkest level of tanning. Apply the lotion, you can feel the skin energizing action. Immediate and Long Term High Level Bronzers, including revolutionary MelanoBronze, add to the depth and sustaining power of a tan. Enriched Advanced Silicone Emulsion and premium anti-aging, wrinkle-reducing ingredients complete the perfect lotion to prepare for High Energy/High Performance Tanning.
Fragrance: Cool Energy
NEW LINE - Tanique
Tanique Intensifier
The perfect combination of Cosmeceutical skin improvement and tanning technologies in an upscale, easy to use bottle. Inspired by the success and performance of the Largest Department Store Brand, Tanique incorporates the newest ingredients that rejuvenate your skin and produce a glowing tan.
Fragrance: Fragrance / Allergen Free
Tanique Bronzer
The perfect combination of Cosmeceutical skin improvement and tanning technologies in an upscale, easy to use bottle. Inspired by the success and performance of the Largest Department Store Brand, Tanique incorporates the newest ingredients that rejuvenate your skin and produce a dark glowing tan.
Fragrance: Fragrance / Allergen Free
Tanique Face
The perfect combination of Cosmeceutical facial skin improvement and tanning technologies in an upscale, easy to use bottle. Inspired by the success and performance of the Largest Department Store Brand, Tanique incorporates the newest ingredients that renew your skin and produce a soft, elegant tan.
Fragrance: Fragrance / Allergen Free
New in the Bella Soleil Line
Beautiful Sun Dark Bronzer
Inspired by the Mediterranean Sea; European cosmetic and American tanning science. Multiple Tan Intensifiers, intense moisturizers and skin treatment complexes, enhanced with Advanced Silicone Emulsion for even application and glowing, fashion model skin. The deep, dark color is enhanced with an immediate glow and Extreme Levels of Dark Premium Bronzers.
Fragrance: Mediterranean Dreams
Beautiful Sun Facial Bronzing Gelee
Inspired by European cosmetic and American tanning science’s research for perfect, flawless, golden facial skin. The formula’s results include; smooth velvet feeling application, glowing skin, immediate bronzed shimmering color and subdued levels of long term bronzing. It is DHA and streak Free. Additional moisturizing, anti-aging and collagen building compounds contribute to the exceptional results. You must experience Bella’s Facial Bronzing Gelee to appreciate your own radiant face.
Fragrance: Light Mediterranean Dreams
New in the Mineral Sun Line
NANO Bronzer
Immediate rich tan color with the MR Double Bronzing Delivery System™: instant color via Pearl Bronze Mineralized Nano Beads™, microscopic molecules that permeate the skin, and additional bronzing agents. Enhanced color via UV exposure, with premium Tanning Intensifiers. Especially formulated for sensitive skin; the lotion is DHA and Paraben Free; fortified with skin soothing natural minerals.
Fragrance: Romantic Radiance
New in the Unique Collection
Just Sayin'
An awesome tan, gorgeous, radiant skin, it is all yours with Just Sayin’ Ultra Dark Tanning Lotion. Potent rapid Intensifiers, longer lasting ultra dark Bronzers, newly discovered skin treatment compounds and natural Black Currant essence, will produce vibrant, youthful looking, tanned skin. You’ll be the envy of all your friends…we’re Just Sayin’!
Fragrance: Cherry Currant
Wild Attraction
Wild Attraction captures an incredible provocative tan and youthful glowing skin; you can be your wildest, exotic self. A rare combination of Advanced Silicone Emulsion, Zemea™ (natural highly effective humectant), Wild Levels of Bronzers and Age Defying, anti-oxidant cosmeceutical compounds restores natural, youthful looking golden tanned skin. Remember; it’s a jungle out there.
Fragrance: Wild and Delicious
New in the Maximum Collection
Justified
Your whole hip being, is justified by the way you look and feel. Nothing enhances that quality like a perfect, glowing natural Tan. Multiple Immediate Cosmetic Bronzing, but DHA and Streak Free, Justified combines Advanced Silicone Emulsion, a rich menu of natural moisturizing skin rejuvenators, multi-Intensifiers and superb skin care for the deep, rich color you want and the glowing skin you deserve.
Fragrance: Bold Passion
Dark Body
Your whole hip being, is justified by the way you look and feel. Nothing enhances that quality like a perfect, glowing natural Tan. Multiple Immediate Cosmetic Bronzing, but DHA and Streak Free, Justified combines Advanced Silicone Emulsion, a rich menu of natural moisturizing skin rejuvenators, multi-Intensifiers and superb skin care for the deep, rich color you want and the glowing skin you deserve.
Fragrance: Bold Passion
New in the Sun Skin Spa Line
Extreme Bronzer Dark Tanning Serum
Experience the proven results of a Spa while achieving the darkest tan with Extreme Bronzers and state of the art UV Tan intensifiers. The skin enhancing conditioners, moisturizers and therapeutic skin firming complexes insure that the skin will be properly prepared for UV rays and that the life of the resulting tan will be maximized.
Fragrance: Seductive Pleasures
Tan Extending Serum
Experience the pampering care and luxury of a Spa Skin Treatment. Premium Conditioners/Moisturizers, including Advanced Silicone Emulsion, for smooth skin; vitamins, Shea Butter and Sea Microalgae for improved skin resiliency and young, vital looking skin. Ideal to help preserve the life of your tan.
Fragrance: Pomegranate and Cotton Blossom
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
NCI Admits ‘Sun Scare’ Lacks Proof
From Smart Tan
The U.S. National Cancer Institute — in bold type on an a section added to its web site in June 2010 — admits that there is no evidence that avoiding sunlight or sunbeds actually decreases the risk of skin cancer.
“It is not known if protecting skin from sunlight and other UV radiation decreases the risk of skin cancer,” the NCI writes in an advisory titled “Skin Cancer Prevention.” The article continues, “Sunscreen may help decrease the amount of UV radiation to the skin. One study found that wearing sunscreen can help prevent actinic keratoses, scaly patches of skin that may become squamous cell carcinoma. However, the use of sunscreen has not been proven to lower the risk of melanoma skin cancer.”
The NCI couches its recommendations about sun exposure and UV light with the words “may” and “suggest” — showing that the agency and others continue to blur the line in public health recommendations, encouraging people to avoid UV and mid-day sun even though they do not have cause-and-effect evidence to say that UV “will” cause skin cancer.
“Being exposed to ultraviolet radiation is a risk factor that may increase the risk of skin cancer,” the agency writes in the same advisory. “Studies suggest that being exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and the sensitivity of a person’s skin to UV radiation are risk factors for skin cancer.”
What’s it mean?
“The difference between advising people to avoid sunburn based on what studies suggest and blurring the line to still make it appear that any and all UV exposure is harmful — when evidence does not support that statement — is the wrong way to approach this” Smart Tan Vice President Joseph Levy says. “You keep reading items like this from so many agencies and the inferences all seem to point in the same direction, benefiting the $6 billion chemical sunscreen pharmaceutical market. Still, this article is quite clear: Dermatology leaders need to stop saying point blank that avoiding sun will decrease the risk of cancer. The government does not support that claim.”
The U.S. National Cancer Institute — in bold type on an a section added to its web site in June 2010 — admits that there is no evidence that avoiding sunlight or sunbeds actually decreases the risk of skin cancer.
“It is not known if protecting skin from sunlight and other UV radiation decreases the risk of skin cancer,” the NCI writes in an advisory titled “Skin Cancer Prevention.” The article continues, “Sunscreen may help decrease the amount of UV radiation to the skin. One study found that wearing sunscreen can help prevent actinic keratoses, scaly patches of skin that may become squamous cell carcinoma. However, the use of sunscreen has not been proven to lower the risk of melanoma skin cancer.”
The NCI couches its recommendations about sun exposure and UV light with the words “may” and “suggest” — showing that the agency and others continue to blur the line in public health recommendations, encouraging people to avoid UV and mid-day sun even though they do not have cause-and-effect evidence to say that UV “will” cause skin cancer.
“Being exposed to ultraviolet radiation is a risk factor that may increase the risk of skin cancer,” the agency writes in the same advisory. “Studies suggest that being exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and the sensitivity of a person’s skin to UV radiation are risk factors for skin cancer.”
What’s it mean?
“The difference between advising people to avoid sunburn based on what studies suggest and blurring the line to still make it appear that any and all UV exposure is harmful — when evidence does not support that statement — is the wrong way to approach this” Smart Tan Vice President Joseph Levy says. “You keep reading items like this from so many agencies and the inferences all seem to point in the same direction, benefiting the $6 billion chemical sunscreen pharmaceutical market. Still, this article is quite clear: Dermatology leaders need to stop saying point blank that avoiding sun will decrease the risk of cancer. The government does not support that claim.”
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Yes! A dose of sun CAN protect you against skin cancer
Yes! A dose of sun CAN protect you against skin cancer
By Professor Angus Dalgleish
Last updated at 8:01 AM on 24th May 2011
Comments (23) Add to My Stories Share
As a fair-haired Scot with freckles and pale skin I’m a classic case to be more at risk from melanoma. Getting quite badly sunburned on my nose years ago in Spain has pushed my risk up further.
To say I’ve been wary about the sun is an understatement - I specialise in treating patients with advanced melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer.
I was also in Australia 30 years ago at the start of the Slip-Slop-Slap campaign to warn people to keep out of the sun, and for seven years I never went swimming without being covered in sun lotion and wearing a T-shirt.
Soak up the sun: Your skin needs vitamin D
But now I believe that rather than reducing the risk of skin cancer, following these sun-avoidance guidelines could actually raise it. That’s because we need sun on our skin to make vitamin D - ironically these campaigns may have made millions chronically short of it and put them at risk. t rather than reducing the risk of skin cancer, following these sun-avoidance guidelines could actually raise it.
That’s because we need sun on our skin to make vitamin D - ironically these campaigns may have made millions chronically short of it and put them at risk. The sun’s effects might even protect against melanoma (as reported in the Mail earlier this month).
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I first became interested in vitamin D and its cancer fighting potential about 15 years ago, when working in a team testing it as a treatment for breast cancer. It proved very effective, but the project was abandoned for technical reasons.
I thought this was a mistake because it had become clear that vitamin D can target tumours in many different ways, including speeding up the death of tumour cells.
Later, while researching cancer vaccines, I found good vitamin D levels in patients triggered a stronger immune response - important because it makes the vaccine more potent.
Then, a couple of years ago, researchers at Leeds University made the surprising discovery that a very low level of vitamin D was a major risk factor for melanoma.
Get out in the sun: Earlier reports on the benefit of the sun
This flew in the face of the idea that it was too much sun that pushed up your melanoma risk. Lots of sun actually mean lots of vitamin D - and potentially a lower risk of melanoma.
I immediately began to test my patients’ vitamin D levels and was amazed - I’d expected maybe 30 per cent would be deficient; it was closer to 90 per cent. That changed everything for me.
I now test all my new melanoma patients for vitamin D - if their levels are low, I give them a supplement. The big question is: does this improve their survival rates?
We don’t know yet - we’ve only been doing it for about six months - but I think this is a sensible response to the evidence so far. As for the rest of us, we should probably spend more time in the sun. Young girls have developed rickets because their well-meaning parents slathered them in sunscreen from birth whenever they went out.
I’m pleased that these days the official advice has changed and a few minutes in the sun each day without sunscreen is now recommended.
But this is a long way from acknowledging how vital it is to have a healthy level of vitamin D.
Research shows that a large percentage of people in the UK are deficient in vitamin D partly because we can’t make any from the sun for about six months of the year.
As well as checking the vitamin D levels of my patients I also check my own occasionally and take a supplement of 1000 international units about three times a week.
Meanwhile, I’d like to see all other cancer units automatically checking their patients’ blood levels. It’s cheap and quick and I guarantee they would be amazed at just how low many were.
So how much sun exposure is enough? And if we give supplements, how much do people need?
Finding the right answers could bring big benefits for very little cost. In the meantime, my own approach has changed dramatically since those early days. If I’m playing tennis or skiing I’ll only use sun cream on my face or arms in very hot or mid-day sun.
Going slightly pink is OK (although at the first tingling sign that I’ve been too exposed, I’ll put on some block, and I always protect my nose where it was burnt).
But my message is: don’t be afraid of the sun - enjoy it!
Explore more:Places: Spain, United Kingdom, Australia
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-1390243/Sun-CAN-protect-skin-cancer.html#ixzz1RuFPXDXs
By Professor Angus Dalgleish
Last updated at 8:01 AM on 24th May 2011
Comments (23) Add to My Stories Share
As a fair-haired Scot with freckles and pale skin I’m a classic case to be more at risk from melanoma. Getting quite badly sunburned on my nose years ago in Spain has pushed my risk up further.
To say I’ve been wary about the sun is an understatement - I specialise in treating patients with advanced melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer.
I was also in Australia 30 years ago at the start of the Slip-Slop-Slap campaign to warn people to keep out of the sun, and for seven years I never went swimming without being covered in sun lotion and wearing a T-shirt.
Soak up the sun: Your skin needs vitamin D
But now I believe that rather than reducing the risk of skin cancer, following these sun-avoidance guidelines could actually raise it. That’s because we need sun on our skin to make vitamin D - ironically these campaigns may have made millions chronically short of it and put them at risk. t rather than reducing the risk of skin cancer, following these sun-avoidance guidelines could actually raise it.
That’s because we need sun on our skin to make vitamin D - ironically these campaigns may have made millions chronically short of it and put them at risk. The sun’s effects might even protect against melanoma (as reported in the Mail earlier this month).
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I first became interested in vitamin D and its cancer fighting potential about 15 years ago, when working in a team testing it as a treatment for breast cancer. It proved very effective, but the project was abandoned for technical reasons.
I thought this was a mistake because it had become clear that vitamin D can target tumours in many different ways, including speeding up the death of tumour cells.
Later, while researching cancer vaccines, I found good vitamin D levels in patients triggered a stronger immune response - important because it makes the vaccine more potent.
Then, a couple of years ago, researchers at Leeds University made the surprising discovery that a very low level of vitamin D was a major risk factor for melanoma.
Get out in the sun: Earlier reports on the benefit of the sun
This flew in the face of the idea that it was too much sun that pushed up your melanoma risk. Lots of sun actually mean lots of vitamin D - and potentially a lower risk of melanoma.
I immediately began to test my patients’ vitamin D levels and was amazed - I’d expected maybe 30 per cent would be deficient; it was closer to 90 per cent. That changed everything for me.
I now test all my new melanoma patients for vitamin D - if their levels are low, I give them a supplement. The big question is: does this improve their survival rates?
We don’t know yet - we’ve only been doing it for about six months - but I think this is a sensible response to the evidence so far. As for the rest of us, we should probably spend more time in the sun. Young girls have developed rickets because their well-meaning parents slathered them in sunscreen from birth whenever they went out.
I’m pleased that these days the official advice has changed and a few minutes in the sun each day without sunscreen is now recommended.
But this is a long way from acknowledging how vital it is to have a healthy level of vitamin D.
Research shows that a large percentage of people in the UK are deficient in vitamin D partly because we can’t make any from the sun for about six months of the year.
As well as checking the vitamin D levels of my patients I also check my own occasionally and take a supplement of 1000 international units about three times a week.
Meanwhile, I’d like to see all other cancer units automatically checking their patients’ blood levels. It’s cheap and quick and I guarantee they would be amazed at just how low many were.
So how much sun exposure is enough? And if we give supplements, how much do people need?
Finding the right answers could bring big benefits for very little cost. In the meantime, my own approach has changed dramatically since those early days. If I’m playing tennis or skiing I’ll only use sun cream on my face or arms in very hot or mid-day sun.
Going slightly pink is OK (although at the first tingling sign that I’ve been too exposed, I’ll put on some block, and I always protect my nose where it was burnt).
But my message is: don’t be afraid of the sun - enjoy it!
Explore more:Places: Spain, United Kingdom, Australia
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-1390243/Sun-CAN-protect-skin-cancer.html#ixzz1RuFPXDXs
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