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Sunlight may help ward off rheumatoid arthritis in women

Regular sunlight exposure is linked to lower risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis in older women due to increased production of vitamin D. However, younger women who cover up with sunscreen may not experience the same protective benefits, according to a large-scale study.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·DateFeb 4, 2013

Caucasians who avoid sun exposure more likely to be vitamin D deficient, Stanford study suggests

A Stanford study found that Caucasians who avoid sun exposure have lower blood levels of vitamin D, with a 40% prevalence among all participants increasing to 53% and 56% among those wearing long sleeves and staying in the shade. The use of sunscreen did not significantly affect vitamin D levels due to insufficient application.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalCancer Causes & Control·DateNov 3, 2011

Promising approach to a more effective sunscreen

Researchers discovered a promising new agent, CP-31398, that restores mutant p53 tumor suppressor function and inhibits skin cancer growth in mice exposed to UVB light. The findings suggest potential for this approach as a sunscreen component for preventing and treating UV light-induced skin cancers.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 3, 2007

Less sun better than using sunscreen

A comprehensive review suggests that wearing protective clothing is a more effective way to prevent skin cancer and sun damage than relying on sunscreen. The review highlights the characteristics of clothing that can provide optimal protection, including tightly woven fabrics like denim and wool.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 2, 2007

Most beachgoers accurately report their sun habits

A recent study found that most adult beachgoers accurately reported their sun habits, with moderate to substantial agreement between self-report measures and objective procedures. The study used a novel sunscreen-swabbing procedure in real-world conditions, providing valuable insights into the validity of self-report sun habits.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateOct 16, 2006

Safer suntans through science

Scientists at the University of Kentucky are testing a lotion that stimulates melanin production, reducing UV damage and increasing skin protection. The treatment has promising results, offering an alternative to traditional sunless tanning products and tanning beds.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalNature·DateSep 26, 2006

Guilt and fear motivate better than hope

A study published in the Journal of Consumer Research suggests that emotions like guilt and regret play a critical role in motivating people to make wise decisions about self-protection. The research finds that appeals combining fear and accountability are more effective than those relying on hope or good intentions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateFeb 10, 2006

Young athletes ignore skin cancer risk

A recent study by Dr. Brian Adams found that 85% of NCAA soccer players and cross-country runners did not use sunscreen during practice, despite being at high risk for sun-related skin cancer. The American Cancer Society estimates that most cases of nonmelanoma skin cancer diagnosed yearly in the US are sun-related.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·DateAug 15, 2005

Chemistry of tanning

Self-tanners contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which interacts with skin proteins to create a brown glow. Newer sunscreens offer greater protection against both UVA and UVB radiation, including those developed by Craig Bonda, who found that adding DEHN to avobenzone extends its effectiveness.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJun 25, 2002