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There is a raging debate on whether or not sunscreen causes cancer. Naturally, the companies who manufacture sunscreen creams are vociferously claiming that it does not. On the other side are experts who point out that certain chemicals like OMC, Titanium dioxide and Oxybenzone found in sunscreen lotions are indeed carcinogenic and can increase the risk of skin cancer.
Statistics pertaining to the rise of skin cancer also seem to support the views of the experts. In the pre-War 1930s, studies showed the risk of developing invasive melanoma was 1 in 500; in the US (where people regularly use sunscreen lotions), the risk has currently increased dramatically to 1 in 55. True, there are various underlying factors like the thinning of the ozone layer and the American preference for outdoor lifestyles – but one important development is the popularity of sunscreen creams and lotions in present times. It would, therefore, be logical to look upon sunscreen lotions as a contributory factor.
In fact, one of the leading authorities on skin cancer, Dr Leonard Coldwell, strongly asserts that the chemicals in sunscreen cause most skin cancers – not exposure to the sun, as many people tend to think.
In India, we don’t have to worry. Mother Nature in her generosity has given us a 100 percent natural sunscreen with zero risk of cancer: Mustard Oil. If you are going out in the tropical sun, just apply a thin layer of mustard oil on your face, hands and other exposed parts. The high levels of Vitamin E will protect you from the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun while the natural antioxidants will protect the skin from cellular damage caused by free radicals in the air (because of the high levels of air pollution in India).
So, don’t fear the sun… after all, you have one of the best natural sunscreens – right there, on your kitchen shelf!
