Skin Cancer Prevention and Facial Surgery in Cheshire and Shrewsbury

Mineral vs chemical suncream and sunscreen:

When it comes to sun protection, choosing the right SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is crucial, especially in the ever-changing climate of the UK. When we talk about UV we tend to mean UVA, UVB and UVC, with UVC being absorbed by the ozone layer. UVB penetrates only into the epidermis layer of the skin. It is responsible for redness and blistering associated with sunburn. UVB impacts on DNA in the cell creating damages which may lead to skin cancer as non-melanoma skin cancer.

UVA penetrates deeper into the dermis and is responsible for photoageing. UVA acts through oxidative stress forming reactive oxygen species  that will damage the DNA and lead to cancer. Free radicals lead to breakage of DNA (mutations, renewal failure, cell death), collagen, elastin, glycosaminoglycans (skin firmness) and lipids (membrane or structural).

Photoaged skin shows wrinkling,  dryness,  brown spots and a dry leather purse type texture. To help you make an informed decision, let's explore the differences between chemical and mineral sunscreens and their benefits.

Mineral Sunscreens

Mineral sunscreens rely on active ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which physically block and scatter UV rays. They form a protective barrier on the skin's surface and are particularly suitable for those with sensitive skin. Here are the key features of mineral sunscreens:

1. Broad-Spectrum Protection: Mineral sunscreens offer reliable protection against both UVA and UVB rays, shielding your skin from sun damage and reducing the risk of sunburn and skin cancer.

2. Gentle and Soothing: The gentle nature of mineral sunscreens makes them an excellent choice for individuals with sensitive skin, rosacea, or other skin conditions. They are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions.

3. Immediate Protection: Mineral sunscreens start working as soon as they are applied, providing immediate protection upon application. There is no need to wait for them to absorb into the skin before sun exposure.

4. Environmentally Friendly: Mineral sunscreens are considered reef-safe and environmentally friendly. They do not contain the chemical filters that can harm marine life, making them a responsible choice for both your skin and the planet.

Chemical Sunscreens

Chemical sunscreens in the UK are formulated with active ingredients such as avobenzone, octinoxate, and oxybenzone. These ingredients work by absorbing UV radiation and converting it into heat, reducing its impact on your skin. Here's what you need to know about chemical sunscreens:

1. Broad-Spectrum Protection: Chemical sunscreens offer comprehensive protection against both UVA and UVB rays, shielding your skin from sunburn, premature aging, and the risk of skin cancer.

2. Lightweight and Transparent: The texture of chemical sunscreens is typically light and non-greasy, making them ideal for everyday use. They blend seamlessly into the skin, leaving no visible residue or white cast.

3. Enhanced Skin Compatibility: Chemical sunscreens are formulated to be gentle and suitable for most skin types. However, individuals with sensitive skin or specific allergies may want to perform a patch test before applying it to the entire face or body.

4. Cosmetically Versatile: Chemical sunscreens provide an excellent base for makeup application, allowing you to layer cosmetics without compromising their performance or appearance.

There is evidence published in JAMA of systemic absorption of some of the active ingredients with the chemical sunscreens, so perhaps some caution should be advised. Paper details are below.

Skin Cancer Prevention with Vitamin B3

Did you know that preventing common skin cancers and precancers is now possible with a simple, affordable solution? A simple Vitamin called nicotinamide, a Vitamin B3 supplement in an Australian clinical study  demonstrated remarkable results. Patients at high risk for skin cancer who took nicotinamide twice daily experienced a 23% reduction in new squamous-cell and basal-cell skin cancers compared to those who took a placebo.

In addition to reducing the risk of skin cancers, nicotinamide also proved effective in preventing actinic keratosis, a common precancerous skin condition. These findings are groundbreaking and have the potential to significantly lower healthcare morbidity.

It's important to note that these results specifically apply to individuals who have previously had skin cancer and are at high risk for developing new skin cancers. Therefore, this skin cancer prevention program is tailored to this specific patient population.

Note other forms of vitamin B, such as niacin, do not provide the same benefits, and continuous treatment with nicotinamide is advised to ensure ongoing protection.

Sun cream recommendations

I'm often asked my thoughts on suncream, below are a few that I typically recommend

Skingredients Skin Shield - SPF 50 mineral  sunscreen

boots.com/skingredients-skin-shield-moisturising-priming-spf-50-pa-sunscreen-refillable-primary-pack-73ml-10312895p  (no affiliation, kick back, funding, support or otherwise with the brand or with Boots)

Hawaiian Tropic - mineral sun screen 

https://www.boots.com/hawaiian-tropic-mineral-sun-milk-spf30-100ml-10290562

(no affiliation, kick back, funding, support or otherwise with the brand or with Boots, sadly)

Blue Lizard - mineral sun cream 

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Blue-Lizard-Sensitive-Suncream-SPF/dp/B000EY4YLS/ref=sr_1_3?qid=1692354276&refinements=p_4%3ABlue+Lizard&s=beauty&sr=1-3

(no affiliation, kick back, funding, support or otherwise with the brand or with Amazon, disappointingly)

Contains:  

• Zinc oxide: a mineral that works as a physical SPF filter 
• Niacinamide (vitamin B3): an antioxidant that may improve skin tone and texture
• Vitamin E: a potent antioxidant that may protect the skin from free radical damage
• Allantoin: a moisturising ingredient that helps to smooths the skin

A more affordable, albeit chemical sun cream is the Boots Soltan kids range. Great because it's 5 star UVA as well as high UVB SPF. Available at  Soltan Kids Protect & Moisturise Lotion SPF50+ 200ml - Boots  (again - no affiliation, kick back, funding, support or otherwise with the brand or with Boots)

And finally, for oilier skin  La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Oil Control Fluid 50ml - Boots 

 (still - no affiliation, kick back, funding, support or otherwise with the brand or with Boots) this is still a chemical sun cream, but more affordable than the current mineral creams available.

Choosing the Right SPF for You:

Ultimately, the choice between chemical and mineral sunscreens depends on your personal preferences and skin's needs. Both options provide effective protection against harmful UV rays, allowing you to enjoy the great outdoors while keeping your skin healthy. Remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours and use additional sun protection measures like seeking shade and wearing protective clothing.

Regardless, prioritise your skin's well-being in the UK's varying climate by incorporating SPF into your daily skincare routine. Whether you opt for the invisible effectiveness of chemical sunscreens or the natural gentleness of mineral sunscreens, you'll be making a wise investment in your skin's long-term health.

Effect of Sunscreen Application on Plasma Concentration of Sunscreen Active Ingredients

A Randomized Clinical Trial (JAMA 2020; 3223(3): 256-267

Question:  What is the maximum plasma concentration of 6 sunscreen active ingredients from 4 commercially available sunscreen products (formulated as lotion, aerosol spray, nonaerosol spray, and pump spray)?

Findings:  In this randomized clinical trial with 48 healthy participants, maximum plasma concentrations (geometric mean [coefficient of variation %]) for the active ingredient avobenzone (primary end point) were 7.1 ng/mL (73.9%) for lotion, 3.5 ng/mL (70.9%) for aerosol spray, 3.5 ng/mL (73.0%) for nonaerosol spray, and 3.3 ng/mL (47.8%) for pump spray following a single application of these products on day 1 and multiple applications through day 4.

Meaning:  Sunscreen active ingredients are systemically absorbed, which supports the need for additional studies to determine the clinical significance of these findings.

Facial Surgery Excellence

In addition to the skin cancer prevention program, I offer a comprehensive range of facial surgery procedures. Specialising in various treatments to enhance your facial features, restore balance, and address specific concerns, from reconstructive procedures to cosmetic enhancements, I am committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for my patients.

I understand that each individual has unique needs and goals, which is why the approach is personalised and tailored to your specific requirements. Our team will guide you through the entire process, providing detailed explanations, answering all your questions, and ensuring that you have realistic expectations.

Note: The information provided is for general purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalised guidance regarding your specific condition and treatment options.