According to the Skin Cancer Foundation more than 600,000 new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed yearly and the figure is rising. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States and is responsible for 8,500 deaths annually.
A hypothesis for this increase is harmful sunscreen chemicals are doing more harm than good. In 2007 the Environmental Working Group (EWG) analyzed 785 sunscreens and 84% provided inadequate protection from the sun's harmful rays or contained ingredients with safety concerns. One range stood out - EWG ranked naturally derived UV Natural #1 safest and most effective sunscreen.
Some experts suggest that sunscreen formula may be cancer causing. The harmful chemicals identified include allergy-creating PABA, benzophenone-3, homosalate, octyl-methoxycinnamate (OMC) and 4-methyl-benzylidene camphor (4- MBC). While these chemicals protect skin from sun damage, experts have indicated OMC, which is present in 90% of sunscreen brands, was found to kill mouse cells even at low doses. Recent studies on childhood illnesses linked these findings to a possible cause of ADHD, asthma and allergies. Some ingredients change the body's estrogen levels affecting DNA and causing cell damage by creating free radicals.
To satisfy consumer demand UV Natural founder Shirley Livesay created a range with no harmful ingredients for longevity, fragrance or moisturising purposes.
UV Natural consists of: powerful anti-oxidants such as green tea and grape seed extract; macadamia, grape seed and colloidal Silica to fight environmental stressors; moisturising and skin-conditioning oils; and vitamin E to assist with skin reconstruction at a cellular level. These ingredients also help combat the signs of photo ageing.
The range is a result of extensive research and development and features an improved formula that is non-greasy, gentle, hydrating and moisturising. Products include: SPF 15, SPF 30+, Baby, Sport and in September 2007: Lip Sunscreen, Sport Lip Sunscreen and Sun & Body Oil. These products have been tested and proven to have a sensitivity rating of zero which makes them ideal for all skin types. UV Natural products are cruelty free and stringently adhere to Food and Drug Administration (USA) requirements.
