Description

Abstract

There remains controversy surrounding the safety and efficacy of sunscreens in the prevention of solar damage. Epidemiological studies have shown that ultraviolet radiation is a major cause of skin malignancy, although the exact part of the solar spectrum that is ultimately responsible is not known. Many factors need to be considered when discussing the relationship between sunscreens and skin cancer, including the adequacy of sunscreen applications i.e. poor and patchy application of sunscreens, failure of sunscreens to afford adequate immunoprotection and failure of users to re-apply their sunscreen. Behavioural patterns of sunscreen users need further evaluation as a false sense of security from sunscreen use can prolong intentional exposure time and increase the risk of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer. The overall relationship between sunscreen use, the sun protection factor and skin cancer remains far from clear. Sunscreen use can reduce photoaging, sunburn, solar keratoses and probably prevent against squamous cell carcinoma when used regularly. No such conclusion can be made about the effects of sunscreens on basal cell carcinoma and melanoma. To date there have been no prospective controlled trials testing whether sunscreens prevent melanoma. Until new investigations have elucidated the intriguing relationship between sunscreen use and skin cancer, emphasis should be placed on the known advantages of sunscreens, the correct method of application and on physical as well as chemical modes of sun protection.