Stay Tan
For most of my career I have recommended getting a good tan to pro-
tect the skin against excess sun damage. In fact, tanning provides pro-
tection similar to sunscreen, and with protection specifically against
the potentially dangerous UVA. A recent issue of Science(March 2,
2007) says the same: “A dark natural tan offers unparalleled protec-
tion against skin cancer.” Not everyone can tan. Very fair-skinned
people, those with red hair and those with freckles, can burn quite
easily, and these individuals must be very cautious.
Following are three important factors to consider when it comes
to the sun:
- Use the Sun Wisely.Everyone knows that spending the
afternoon lying on the beach in the strong summer sun is
not healthy (although people continue doing it). But we
need sun exposure. Children need sun too, from an early
age. But like adults, they should never stay in the sun
long enough to burn. If you work in the midday summer
sun you should cover yourself — a hat and light, long
sleeves are usually sufficient, but some people may need
more protection. Those who are sun-sensitive should
avoid midday sun, and sometimes even late morning
and mid-afternoon summer sun. Most people who are
sun-sensitive already know it. In this case it’s important
to take a natural vitamin D supplement as food sources
of this nutrient are inadequate. - Eat Right.The very best skin care products are nutrients
found in the healthy foods we eat. Essential fats, antioxi-
dants, vitamin A and other dietary nutrients offer the
greatest skin care andthe best protection from natural
sun. Vegetables and fruits provide most of these nutri-
ents, with fish oil, egg yolks and whey products offering
other valuable factors. - Don’t Eat Sunscreen!Again, my recommendation has
always been to not put anything on your skin you’re not
willing to eat! That’s because sunscreen, along with so
LET THE SUN SHINE! • 155