Sunscreen: Friend or Foe? Part 1

Why do I always have to go so deep... Here is the brief history of heliotherapy, skin cancers and traditional sunbathing remedies that used to be prescribed. Part 1 of 2

I love the topic of the sun. Probably because for as long as I can remember, I have been addicted to the feeling it gives me when it touches my skin. Its warm, loving, glowing embrace keeps me coming back day after day. Which is funny because we live in Washington, and us Pacific Northwest’ers only have so many sunny days in a year. But for as long as I can remember, I have always chased the sun. I find myself chasing it around our deck, following it into the garden, running in between the trees. I leave one arm out on the airplane to try and get closer to the window, and I leave our winters to find the sun in our gloomy months when it likes to hide. Currently, I am sitting outside soaking up the sun while writing.

Over the years, I have watched and listened to the sun become demonized. It went from the beaming, warm, illuminating light that I used to lay on the grass and enjoy to the big bad skin cancer-causing bully. It seems the more I paid attention to the craze for sun protection, the more I notice it being unescapable. Sunscreens and tinted SPF all shoved down my throat by social media influencers and skincare professionals, I sunscreens conveniently placed in some of the hottest (pun intended) TV shows, I see it on trays at all the nice hotels, and it seems to be the topic of much overheard poolside conversation. At this point, I can’t escape the abrasive fumes of sunblock spewing from their aerosol cans and floating into my nostrils as I lay by the water #nonconsensual.

But have we ever taken a moment to question why, now, after thousands of years of our species existing on our planet, is sunscreen a necessary component of our outdoor exposure?

The Real Role of Sunscreen

Many of us have been led to believe that sunscreen is a lifesaver, protecting us from deadly skin cancers. However, the truth is more nuanced. Sunscreen is primarily effective in preventing sunburn, not malignant melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Surprisingly, malignant melanoma represents only about 6% of all skin cancer cases in the U.S. annually. The remaining 94% are generally non-life-threatening, yet there's a widespread lack of understanding about the different types of skin cancer. This ignorance is frequently exploited by various organizations, leading to a skewed perception of the risks associated with sun exposure. Alarmingly, some studies even suggest that sunscreen use might increase the risk of developing melanoma.

In part 2 I will breakdown the different types of sunscreens, how to understand the ingredients that make them up and the impact that vegetable oils have on our body and how that contributes to dangerous sun activity.

The Forgotten Power of Heliotherapy (Phototherapy)

Before the advent of antibiotics in the 1930s, sunlight was a cornerstone of medical treatment. Heliotherapy, or sunlight therapy, was widely recognized for its remarkable healing properties. From the late 19th to the mid-20th century, Heliotherapy was the go-to treatment for infectious/ skin diseases. Heliotherapy involves intentional exposure to natural sunlight and has been shown to offer a myriad of health benefits.

Patients with conditions such as gout, rheumatoid arthritis, colitis, arteriosclerosis, anemia, cysts, eczema, acne, psoriasis, herpes, lupus, sciatica, kidney problems, asthma, and even burns have all experienced significant improvements through heliotherapy.

Sunlight and Cancer Treatment

Even today, heliotherapy is utilized in cancer research for DNA repair. Observations have shown that cancer cells begin to die within hours of light treatments, while healthy tissues remain unharmed. Remarkably, 70-80% of tumors treated with sunlight therapy respond positively after just one session. This highlights sunlight as possibly the most powerful natural broad-spectrum treatment available.

*Look to the end of the post where I give traditional explanations on how to practice sun bathing techniques that used to be more readily utilized by doctors to treat specific illnesses.

The Decline of Sunlight Therapy

By 1933, sunlight was proven effective in treating over 100 diseases. The death of prominent Heliotherapist Auguste Rollier in 1954 and the rise of the pharmaceutical industry contributed to the decline of heliotherapy, overshadowing its gentle effectiveness. Another note on the decline is the use of sunglasses, the medical community discovered that the sun's healing rays were far less effective when patients wore sunglasses. These glasses block crucial rays needed for essential biological functions.

More in part 2 but I ditched sunglasses back in 2019 when I started diving into hormone healing.

The Biological NECESSITY of Sunlight

Sunlight's UV rays stimulate the thyroid gland to increase hormone production, controlling metabolism. This boost in metabolism aids in weight loss and muscle development. Without adequate sun exposure, people can become weak and suffer from mental and physical health issues, reflecting diminished vital energy and reduced quality of life.

UV light activates solitrol (vitamin D), a hormone that influences the immune system and various regulatory centers in the body. Alongside melatonin, it affects mood and daily biological rhythms. Hemoglobin in red blood cells also requires UV light to bind to oxygen, essential for all cellular functions. A lack of sunlight can therefore contribute to various illnesses, including cancer.

Interested in what the sun is providing you? Here’s a list to breakout at your next dinner date!

• Vitamin D Production: triggers the production of vitamin D3 in the skin.

• Bone Health: Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption, promoting strong bones and preventing diseases like osteoporosis and rickets.

• Mood Enhancement: increases serotonin production, helping combat depression and anxiety. It also alleviates symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

• Immune System Support: boosts the production of white blood cells, crucial for fighting infections.

• Skin Health: improves conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and acne.

• Cardiovascular Health: helps lower blood pressure by promoting nitric oxide production in the skin.

• Improved Sleep: helps regulate circadian rhythm by increasing melatonin production at night.

• Enhanced Mood and Mental Clarity: triggers the release of endorphins, improving mood and providing a sense of well-being.

• Stimulates the metabolism: by enhancing thyroid hormone production, facilitating vitamin D synthesis, improving insulin sensitivity, activating brown fat, and regulating circadian rhythms.

The Hidden Dangers of Indoor Living…spooky

In August 1982, an article published in the British Medical Journal The Lancet titled "Malignant Melanoma and Exposure to Fluorescent Lighting at Work?" explored the link between indoor fluorescent lighting and melanoma. The study found that working under fluorescent lights doubled the risk of melanoma compared to those with regular sun exposure. In countries like Australia and England, indoor workers suffered from melanoma more than their outdoor counterparts. This suggests that tanned skin from regular sun exposure actually provides protection against the harmful effects of fluorescent lights.

The demonization of the sun in modern society is largely driven by corporate interests and misconceptions. While it's crucial to protect against overexposure, we must also recognize the numerous health benefits of moderate sun exposure. By understanding the true role of sunlight and the historical context of heliotherapy, we can make more informed decisions about our health and well-being. Sunlight, in its natural and balanced form, remains an indispensable ally in maintaining a healthy life.

This post is continued in part 2 which will be released next week :) I will link it here once I post it.

I’m off to enjoy the sun,

Cass

In the meantime, feel free to enjoy these tanning rituals…

Traditional sunbathing protocols:

Did you know there are dedicated ways to sun bath? These used to be prescribed for folks to promote health and well-being. Pioneers like Louis Kuhne, Auguste Rollier, and others cultures have developed various methods to harness the healing power of the sun. Let’s dive into it:

1. Kuhne Sun Bath

Developed by: Louis Kuhne

How to Perform:

• Preparation: Find a sunny outdoor spot. Wear loose, easily removable clothing.

• Initial Exposure: Start with 5-10 minutes of sun exposure, lying or sitting comfortably.

• Gradual Increase: Gradually increase the exposure time by 5 minutes each day.

• Body Rotation: Rotate your body to ensure even exposure—lie on your back, stomach, and sides.

• Cooling Down: After sunbathing, cool down with a lukewarm or cool shower and drink plenty of water.

Benefits: Detoxification, immune boost, mood enhancement, vitamin D synthesis, and improved skin health.

2. Rollier Sun Bath

Developed by: Auguste Rollier

How to Perform:

• Preparation: Choose a sunny outdoor area with fresh air.

• Exposure Method: Gradual exposure similar to Kuhne’s method. Start with short periods and increase over time.

• Positioning: Ensure the entire body receives sunlight. Patients typically start in shaded areas and gradually move to full sun.

• Supplementary Care: Rollier combined sun baths with a nutritious diet, fresh air, and physical exercise.

Benefits: Effective for treating tuberculosis and various skin conditions, improving overall health and well-being.

3. Atapa Snana (Indian Sun Bath)

Origin: Traditional Indian practice

How to Perform:

• Preparation: Find an open, sunny space, preferably early morning or late afternoon.

• Initial Exposure: Begin with 5-15 minutes of sun exposure. Sit or lie down comfortably.

• Gradual Increase: Gradually increase exposure time, similar to other methods.

• Body Focus: Focus on exposing the back, chest, and limbs. Rotate positions for even exposure.

• Breathing Exercises: Combine with deep breathing exercises to enhance benefits.

Benefits: Balances doshas (body energies), boosts immunity, improves digestion, and enhances mood.

4. Rickli Sun Bath

Developed by: Arnold Rickli

How to Perform:

• Preparation: Choose a sunny location, ideally surrounded by nature.

• Exposure Method: Rickli emphasized the importance of air baths (exposure to fresh air) along with sun baths. Begin with short sun exposures and increase gradually.

• Positioning: Alternate between sun and shade. Use light clothing or be nude for full-body exposure.

• Duration: Sessions typically last from 15 minutes to an hour, depending on individual tolerance.

Benefits: Improves respiratory health, boosts circulation, enhances mood, and promotes detoxification.

The overarching key with all of these bathing rituals is to start with gradual exposure and increase your time based on your skin’s tolerance. Remember to stay hydrated, rotate your body for even exposure, and enjoy the revitalizing benefits of sunlight safely.