There is lots of controversy regarding the use of sunscreen lotion to prevent from burning under the sun's rays. Sun tan lotion companies claim that their products will decrease our chances of developing skin cancer. The next time you head out to the beach and slather some sun tan lotion, re-evaluate why you put it on. Is it because you believe it actually works? Or is it because we have been led to believe that it works?



Numerous studies have shown that sunlight prevents cancer and gives plenty of natural, non-toxic Vitamin D, which is good for the immune system and for bone density. The Vitamin D supplement found in milk and other food products is actually toxic and can cause liver failure and eventually death. The sun also acts as an anti-depressant; it is believed that places that receive the least amount of sunlight have a higher percentage of depressed people.

It is a necessity in our daily lives and not getting enough sunlight every once in a while has been linked to poor digestion, weight gain, high cholesterol, body odor and bad breath, poor sleep, lack of energy, and much, much more. Our skin is the largest organ of our body. Anything we put, spray, rub, or massage into is immediately absorbed into our bloodstream. So why is it that we are so willing to put chemicals on our skin? Take a look at the ingredients on the bottle you can't even pronounce half of the ingredients listed on it!

Some research has shown that wearing sun block may increase your chances of a heat or sunstroke. When you get a regular burn, it is not a good idea to use an oil-based product because it will trap the heat inside. The same rules apply with sunscreen lotion. It prevents the dissipation of body heat and absorbs the sunrays, giving your body a more concentrated dose.

In addition, when we perspire, cancer-causing toxins emerge on our skin from our pores. These toxins are left on our skin after the sweat evaporates and must be washed off. If there is this thin barrier of sunscreen, the toxins stay trapped underneath the skin. With waterproof sunscreen, the toxins will stay trapped until the body is washed.

I believe there is a link between the myth that sunlight is bad for you and the claim that sunscreen is crucial. That link is money. The sun's rays cannot be patented. It cannot be collected in a jar, sent to a factory to be packaged, and distributed in grocery stores. These companies are making money out of the fear they instill in people about skin cancer. Quite simply, these companies would go out of business.

Too much of anything is bad for you. If you drink too much soda, that's bad for you. If you eat too much red meat, that's bad for you. The key is moderation. Spend some time in the sun and get a healthy dose of natural Vitamin D, but don't overdo it. Use your judgment. Be smart about it. Make sure you stay hydrated and get plenty of breaks in the shade if your stay at the beach or at any outdoor place is an all-day event.