First I didn't know that UVA being dangerous was
NEW research
, we have been using UVA/UVB blocking high SPF sunscreen (the Alba which now may actually BE paraben free - somewebsites may have been misinformed). ANyways, I have known since before kids that you need UVA/UVB blockage. I learned when my BIL got a melanoma removed from his back
.
On the back of our ALBA it says "a broad spectrum UVA and UVB shielf providing high protection against sunburn". Oh and broad spectrum is important too because it blocks many colors on the light spectrum
FOr our family, as far as sunscreen usage, we don't have a choice this year. 3 of Luke's chemos cause BAD sunburn. We are talking possiblity of blisters and QUICKLY and honestly at 6 weeks old, ALyssa got sunburnt even when we kept her ONLY in the shade
It was crushing to me. She has the complection of a red head. That said, I am hoping that some year we are able to reduce/eliminate? our sunscreen usage. Hopefully that will be next year
. I will say I don't apply sunscreen till we are in the sun because it gives about 15 minutes of absorption and I want them to be exposed to the good things in the sun. Only on heavy chemo weeks does Luke get sunscreened 15 minutes before leaving the house.
As far as titanium dioxide. I have read that it is a carcinogen. But I just googled and it looks similar to the dairy/no dairy, soy/no soy. We all have to look at both sides and "make our choice"
. For my family, having a child that already has cancer, if something is labeled a carginogen by some and not by others, we still avoid it if we can!