The Sun Dilemma: Embracing Exposure Safely

The sun isn’t harmful unless you spend too much time under it, particularly between 10 AM and 3 PM during the summer.

Using sunscreen can encourage us to stay in the sun longer than is safe, dulling our body’s natural warning signals—like increased redness or the warming sensation—that tell us it’s time to step away. For this reason, it is not recommended to use sunblocks containing titanium oxide, zinc oxide, chemicals, or tanning lotions with PABA, as they may block the healing effects of sunlight, damage the skin genetically, or even increase the risk of cancer.

Many people expose themselves to more UVA rays than they would without sunscreen. A sunburn, in fact, is a natural protective response of the skin to excess UVA exposure. On the other hand, Dr. Ackerman, recently honored with a top dermatology award, has argued that there is no proven link between sun exposure and melanoma.

A Russian study found that workers exposed to ultraviolet light at their jobs experienced 50% fewer colds.

A weak immune system cannot adequately defend against illness, including skin cancer.

Employees who spend long hours—up to 22 per day—inside air-conditioned office spaces are exposed to dry, cold air that strips moisture from the skin, leaving it vulnerable to the elements. Air conditioning can also promote fungal and bacterial growth. Without access to natural, humid air, the skin’s ability to eliminate waste products is significantly reduced.

Furthermore, dry skin absorbs harmful chemicals from tanning creams and moisturizers more readily—products heavily used in hot, dry environments. This can weaken cells and, in many cases, lead to cellular damage that may become cancerous.

Researcher Dr. Callen Shaw conducted a melanoma survey at a London medical school and a Sydney clinic in Australia. The study revealed that rates of malignant skin cancer were twice as high among office workers compared to those working outdoors. The findings were published in the British medical journal The Lancet. Dr. Shaw also found that people who spent most of their time exposed to natural sunlight rarely developed skin cancer. Additionally, she observed that fluorescent lights can cause mutations in cell cultures.

In other words, spending more time outdoors in natural sunlight is essential for health.