The Biggest Skin Care Mistake? You Have No Idea You’re Making
According to Dr. Ivan Litvinov, while sunscreen plays a vital role in skin protection, relying solely on it is less effective than utilizing sun-protective clothing and avoiding sun exposure.
Despite the increase in sunscreen use, rates of melanoma and other skin cancers continue to rise, leading to what researchers refer to as ‘the sunscreen paradox.’
Dr. Ivan Litvinov, an Associate Professor and Dermatology Division Chair at McGill University, alongside Dr. Sandra Peláez, Dr. Richie Jeremian, and Dr. Pingxing Xie, delves into this paradox through two recent studies.
Dr. Litvinov highlights that sunscreen often serves as a ‘permission slip’ for prolonged sun exposure, creating a deceptive sense of security.
“People think they are protected from skin cancer because they are using a product marketed to prevent a condition.”
However, many fail to apply sufficient sunscreen and expose their skin to the sun for extended periods after an initial application in the morning.
“This gives them a false sense of security,” Dr. Litvinov notes.
The research team conducted 23 focus groups to investigate the discrepancy in melanoma rates across Canada’s Atlantic provinces.
Findings revealed that residents of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, despite having higher melanoma incidence rates, showed more engagement in sun protection, greater awareness of the health risks associated with sun exposure, and were more likely to monitor the UV index.
Yet, they also experienced more sun exposure due to warmer climates and a propensity for outdoor activities.
In a separate study utilizing data from the United Kingdom Biobank, Jeremian, Xie, and Litvinov discovered a correlation between sunscreen use and a more than doubled risk of skin cancer development.
These findings collectively underscore ‘the sunscreen paradox,’ where individuals with high sun exposure may use sunscreen, but not in adequate amounts or as part of a comprehensive sun-protection strategy, leading to a misguided sense of protection.
Dr. Litvinov emphasizes the need for educational and practical interventions in sun safety and skin cancer prevention, taking into account the sunscreen paradox and the distinct cultural norms worldwide.
“Sunscreen is important, but it is also the least effective way to protect your skin when compared to sun protective clothing, rash guards, and sun avoidance. People can and should enjoy the outdoors, but without getting a sun burn or a suntan,” concludes Dr. Litvinov.
Image Credit: iStock