The good, the bad, and the ugly of sunscreens

Clin Pharmacol Ther. 2011 Jan;89(1):31-3. doi: 10.1038/clpt.2010.227.

Abstract

Sunscreens protect against sunburn, but there is no evidence that they protect against basal cell carcinoma or melanoma. Problems lie in the behavior of individuals who use sunscreens to stay out longer in the sun than they otherwise would. Vitamin D inhibition is, at this stage, unlikely due to insufficient use by individuals. Safety of sunscreens is a concern, and sunscreen companies have emotionally and inaccurately promoted the use of sunscreens.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Carcinoma, Basal Cell / epidemiology
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Humans
  • Melanoma / epidemiology
  • Skin Neoplasms / epidemiology
  • Sunburn / prevention & control*
  • Sunscreening Agents / adverse effects*
  • Sunscreening Agents / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Sunscreening Agents