What is a Sunscreen? Sunscreen is a topical (to apply on the skin) product that protects the skin against harmful effects of the sun. How Can the Sun be Dangerous? The sun, besides emitting visible sunlight, also emits non-visible ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV-B rays may cause sunburns and skin cancer (through a damage of DNA in the skin cells). New studies suggest that UV-A rays may also cause skin cancer (1). UV-A exposure may result in photo-aging: skin wrinkling, age spots (hyper-pigmentation), freckling, visible capillaries, and lost of skin elasticity (through the breakdown of connective tissue in the skin) (2). Eye disorders include: corneal growths, cataract, and iris melanoma (2). Skin sensitivity with an unusually strong reaction to the sun is known as photosensitivity. Severe sunburn may appear in some individuals with systemic lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis, psoriasis, several hours after contact with some fragrances or vegetables (3), or after taking tetracycline, anti-rheumatic ibuprofen, diuretic furosemide, and so on (4). Does Suntan Protects Against Skin Cancer? Suntan does not protect against skin cancer, and not completely even against sunburn (4). How Does Sunscreen Work? Substances in sunscreen either absorb or reflect UV rays, thus preventing them from reaching the skin. Sunscreen Ingredients … Continue reading What Is a Good Sunscreen – Sunscreens Products, Sunscreen Facts