Despite a recent study that said limited unprotected sun exposure is OK in order to increase the body’s manufacture of vitamin D, medical experts agree that the risks outweigh the rewards and you should always apply sunscreen.
While virtually no one uses sunscreen on every exposed part of the body every day, wearing it greatly reduces the risk of all types of skin cancers.
Sunscreens block the UVB, or burning rays. Look for the ingredient Parsol, also called avobenzone, presently the only Food and Drug Administration-approved substance that also blocks the UVA, or tanning rays, which penetrate the skin more deeply and cause signs of aging.
Several European UVA blockers are pending FDA approval, including the active ingredient Mexoryl.