Skin Cancer Awareness Month: The Importance of Protecting Your Skin from the Sun and Blue Light

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a time when we focus on the importance of protecting our skin from the harmful effects of the sun. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and it is largely preventable. 30 years ago, the options for full body protection were limited. Now we have so many choices, it can feel overwhelming. Though we have been (correctly) conditioned to focus on the sun as the major culprit for skin cancer, we also must consider protecting the skin from blue light, or HEV emitted from devices, as well as protecting the environment from irreversible damage.

The Importance of Mineral Sunscreen on the Environment:

Mineral sunscreen, also known as physical sunscreen, is a type of sunscreen that uses natural minerals such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to block or reflect the sun rays. Unlike chemical sunscreens, which absorb the UV rays and convert them into heat, mineral sunscreens work by creating a physical barrier on the surface of the skin.

Many traditional sunscreens contain harmful chemicals that can harm marine life and damage the environment. For example, oxybenzone and octinoxate, two commonly used sunscreen ingredients, have been found to cause coral bleaching and harm marine ecosystems. In contrast, mineral sunscreens, which contain natural minerals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, are a safer and more environmentally friendly option. These minerals create a physical barrier on the skin that reflects both UVA and UVB rays, providing effective sun protection without harming the environment.

Reef-Safe: As mentioned earlier, mineral sunscreens are considered reef-safe because they don’t contain chemicals that can harm marine life. By using mineral sunscreen, you’re helping to protect coral reefs and other marine ecosystems.

Biodegradable: Many mineral sunscreens are biodegradable, which means they break down naturally in the environment. This is important because some chemicals found in traditional sunscreens can take years to break down and can accumulate in the environment.

Sustainable Ingredients: Mineral sunscreens often use sustainable and natural ingredients, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These ingredients are less harmful to the environment and are often sourced in an environmentally responsible way. Anhydrous mineral SPF is a great and sustainable product as it is formulated without water. This results in a concentrated formula that is easily toted from the office to the beach, or a backyard cookout.

The Importance of Protecting Your Skin from Blue Light:

In today’s digital age, we are all spending more time than ever in front of electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers. While these devices offer many benefits, they also emit blue light, which can have negative effects on our skin. Blue light is a type of light emitted by electronic devices and is also present in natural sunlight, which is responsible for regulating our circadian rhythms. However, exposure to blue light at night can disrupt our sleep patterns and lead to a host of other health problems (infringes on beauty sleep). While blue light is not as damaging to our skin as UV rays from the sun, it can still have negative effects. Blue light can penetrate the skin more deeply than UV rays, which can lead to increased oxidative stress and inflammation. This can cause premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and other skin problems.

To protect your skin from blue light, consider using a sunscreen that contains ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which can help block blue light. Another super protective ingredient in the fight against blue light degradation is lipid soluble vitamin C (BV-OSC). Additionally, you can limit your screen time, use blue light blocking glasses, and eat a diet rich in antioxidants to help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation caused by blue light exposure.

As summer approaches, many of us are looking forward to spending more time outdoors, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the warm weather. However, with increased sun exposure comes an increased risk of skin damage and cancer. That’s why sunscreen is an essential part of any outdoor activity. Skin cancer is a serious issue that affects millions of people each year. Fortunately, it is largely preventable by taking simple steps like wearing mineral sunscreen, limiting sun exposure, and protecting your skin from blue light. By making these small changes, you can protect your skin and help to create a healthier and more sustainable environment for all. So, this Skin Cancer Awareness Month, make a commitment to protecting your skin and spreading the word about the importance of sun safety, protecting your skin from blue light, and protecting the environment from Fun in the Sun.

Not all sunscreens are created equally when it comes to environmental sustainability. Lira Clinical has many formulations, from oil free and full coverage BBs, not to mention the new anhydrous SPF EliōDrops. Pick one or layer both, just be sure you are protected. Be Bright, Be Beautiful, be protected.