Surf Clothes 45

Recent research suggests that sunscreen may not prevent melanoma, and may even contribute to the increase in melanoma rates because it gives a false sense of security and it allows people to stay out in the sun longer and be subjected to more damaging sun rays. In fact, melanoma rates have increased dramatically since sunscreens became popular. (See Peter Jaret's article, "Truth, Beauty, and Skin Cancer" in the July/August 1997 issue of Health. Also, see Dr. Phillippe Autier's article, "Sunscreen Use, Wearing Clothes, and Number of Nevi in 6-to-7-Year-Old European Children" in the December 16,1998, issue of the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.)

Indeed, the American Academy of Dermatology predicted a 6% increase in Melanoma for 1999, and a recent John Hopkins University Study has found that between 1973 and 2001 melanoma rates have increased in children by 3% per year.

Research indicates that most people do not apply enough sunscreen to achieve the desired SPF, and in practical use often achieve an SPF protection equivalent to between 3 and 7. The average adult needs to apply more than one ounce per application and frequent reapplication is required. And sunscreen is hard to apply properly--it is easy to miss a spot and end up with sunburn! Water, wind, heat, humidity, and altitude can decrease sunscreen's effectiveness and it rubs off, sweats off, rinses off and fades away making it necessary to reapply regularly. Studies also show that many people apply sunscreen after sun exposure begins and may take up to one hour to apply it to their children. Since sunburn can occur within minutes, a large quantity of sunscreen must be applied to all family members before going outside. Besides the expense of trying to use sunscreen effectively, it is often a hassle--especially with small children!

In addition, sunscreen is chemical based, protective clothing is not; the tight weave of the material provides the sun protection. And a small percentage of people may be sensitive or allergic to some of the active ingredients in sunscreens. Furthermore, experts recommend that parents refrain from using sunscreen on infants under 6 months old and instead rely on protective clothing and keep them out of direct sunlight.

For all these reasons, it makes sense to wear protective clothing... the sunscreen that never wears off!