This time of year, every year, newspapers and magazines are filled with articles reminding you to use sunscreen or risk getting skin cancer! However, the mainstream media outlets don’t mention the dangers of the sunscreens themselves or the importance of sun exposure for a healthy and happy life.

I remember reading an article on “the kids of now” Not getting enough sun because parents are over-protecting the kids skin – hats, sunscreen – and kids are not playing outside as much. Therefore, this kids had vitamin D deficiency. And with that a bunch of other issues. 

So, what should we do?

I think the key to getting the health benefits of sun exposure without risking skin cancer is to start slow. Play in the sun for a few minutes at a time, and gradually work your way up. It’s good if you start to tan slightly, because the added melanin offers increased protection for future sun exposure. In other words, a sun tan will help protect you from getting a sun burn. (Obviously this is hard living in Colorado – It was winter and then one day we woke up and it was summer)

Does anyone have any recommendations on what sunscreen is the best for adults and kids?