Allergies: Is there a sunscreen
that is PABA free?
You and your family may
encounter skin problems related to prolonged sun exposure. Are you using
sunscreen?
"We sunburn easily, but
maybe we are allergic or sensitive to our sunscreen. Is that possible?"
Many people experience skin
problems directly related to prolonged exposure to the sun. The risk of skin
damage from sunburn is one of those problems. The possibility of different
kinds of cancer of the skin or melanoma, is more serious. The reality of
allergies or sensitivity to PABA in sunscreens, is yet another area of growing
concern.
Sunscreens containing PABA were
initially introduced with the expectation of lessening the danger of sunburn and
skin cancer, as well as reducing the incidence of melanoma. It was originally
understood that PABA would provide some measure of protection from the
ultraviolet rays emitted by the sun.
Another problem became
apparent, as people began to suspect that they were sensitive to PABA. Some
were having allergic reactions to sunscreen products that contained PABA. Over
time, more and more people were proven to be reacting adversely to PABA, in the
sunscreen they were using to prevent skin problems. Infants and children were
particularly sensitive to PABA. Skin cancer appeared to be on in the increase
in those using sunscreen with PABA.
If you are a person
experiencing skin problems after you have applied your sunscreen, you may be
one of those people who is sensitive to or allergic to PABA. Do not continue to
use that sunscreen.
The skin care product that you
are using should have a label that states what its contents are and thus, to get
to the root of the problem, begin by checking to see if the sunscreen that you
are currently using contains PABA.
How are you to understand PABA
allergies and PABA free sunscreen options?
What is PABA?
"Aminobenzoic acid (also
known as para-aminobenzoic acid or PABA) is an organic compound with the
molecular formula C7H7NO2. PABA is a white crystalline substance that is only
slightly soluble in water. It consists of a benzene ring substituted with an
amino group and a carboxyl group." (1)
The benzene ring is where the
problem lies, as benzene is a known carcinogen.
"In the past, PABA has
been widely used as a UV filter in sunscreen formulations. However, it has been
determined that it increases the formation of a particular DNA defect in human
cells, thus increasing the risk of skin cancer. Currently, safer and more
effective derivatives of PABA, such as octyl dimethyl PABA (padimate 0), are
more commonly used." (2)
There are those who have
regarded PABA as being a vitamin or more specifically, Vitamin B. Note that
PABA is not a vitamin. It is produced naturally by E-coli in the colon and acts
as an intermediate, in the bacterial synthesis of folate. Some people cannot
synthesize folate. A lack of folate may cause a deficiency that renders
symptoms of scleroderma or hardening of the skin, weeping eczema and vitiligo
or white spots on the skin. It is normally found in liver, brewer's yeast,
kidney, molasses and whole grains. (3)
One might ask if there is a
100% environmentally friendly, natural sunscreen on the market,. that reduces
and prevents the incidence of sunburn and skin cancer.
Before using any skin care
product, it is always advisable to seek advice from your own doctor or from a
dermatologist, as a skin care product that appears to be appropriate for
someone else, may not necessarily prove to be appropriate for you or your family.
Further information on PABA
free, natural sunscreen product options, may be found on the following web
sites:
http://www.viewpoints.com/PABA-Free-Sunscreen
Everyone appears to need UV
protection from both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are understood to do
photodamage to the deep layers of the skin and cause some skin cancers, premature
aging, dark spots and wrinkles. UVB rays cause sunburn, redness and itching, as
well as most skin cancers including melanoma. (4)
It is not the intention of this
article to advertise any specific sunscreen product. Note that every product,
non-natural and natural, may have some short or long-term, positive or
beneficial effects, but may have other adverse or non-beneficial side effects,
as well.
In the future, it may be proven
that the best sunscreen protection one can possibly have is through the enhancement
of the body's own natural, self-protection mechanisms. It is also possible that
the secret to preventing and resolving skin care problems may have more to do
with the amount of something that is used, than what is used. In other words,
practice moderation in all things, including the use of sunscreen products.
With regard to understanding
PABA allergies and PABA free sunscreen options, in relation to sunburn, as well
as skin cancer reduction and prevention, one must suggest 'Consumer, be
aware!' You do have options.
(1)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Para-Aminobenzoic_acid
(2) Ibid.
(3) Ibid.
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