Your risk of malignant melanoma

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Sun creams


This is becoming a subject of more and more debate. There are doctors and
researchers who are beginning to think that sun creams could be harmful because
they encourage people to stay out in the sunshine for longer.They think that
the protection the creams give you against burning may not actually stop you
increasing your risk of malignant melanoma. The only way to be absolutely sure of
reducing your melanoma risk is to keep out of the sun. And if you must get a
tan, do it very gradually so that you don't damage your skin.

Having said all that, using a sun cream is better than getting burnt so here
is what is currently known about them.



What to buy


Cheap suncreams are just as good as expensive ones. They are all tested the
same way and it is the SPF that matters most. Do check the 'use by' date.
Most creams will last about 2 or 3 years - so it is OK to use last year's, but
not a bottle from 5 years ago!

Sun creams have changed a lot in the past 15 years. There is a huge range and
it can be difficult to know what to buy. You should choose one that says it
protects against both UVA and UVB radiation from the sun. This may be labelled
'broad spectrum'.

Then you need to choose the right sun protection factor. We recommend at
least factor 15. This is because it gives the best balance between protection
and cost. The higher factor creams are more expensive, but do not give much
more protection than factor 15. If you use


Factor 15, only 7% of the harmful rays will get through
Factor 30, only 4% of the harmful rays will get through
Factor 60, only 2% of the harmful rays will get throughSoyou can see, you are
getting some more protection with the mostexpensive creams, but not that much
more. There is no suncream thatcan give you total protection. 98%
protection (with factor 60) isabout the best you will get.

Don't assume that because you have put on suncream, you can stay out without
burning. Keep an eye on your skin (and your children's skin) atall times.
Children have thinner, more delicate skins than adults and are at higher risk of
burning. It is best to use waterproof suncream because it will wear off more
slowly.