Sunscreen is the best way to protect ourselves against skin cancer. But doctors are concerned by a backlash against sunscreen that is spreading on social media.
Each year 84,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with melanoma. About 90% of these skin cancers are linked to the ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Sunscreen does protect the skin, but dermatologists have found six very common mistakes people make when it comes to using it. NPR science correspondent Allison Aubrey talks to host Regina G. Barber about the science behind sunscreen and how to avoid making these mistakes this summer. They also get into which sunscreens may be better than others.
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Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S. and we need all the protection we can get. So why is it so hard to get newer, more effective ingredients approved here?
Sunscreen is crucial for skin protection and the SPF is important. But dermatologists say the key to good summer skin care is applying plenty of lotion and re-applying it often, even when it's cloudy.
The maker of Banana Boat Hair & Scalp Sunscreen Spray SPF 30 said trace amounts of the cancer-causing chemical benzene were found in the propellant that sprays the product from the can.
