Solar radiation is of vital important for humans. It is through UV-rays that vitamin D is synthesised in the skin, a vitamin important for the absorption of calcium in the intestines, which is necessary for normal bone growth. Sunlight also seems to have a positive influence on our mood, hormonal balance etc. However we should not allow the positive effects of sunlight to mislead us into over-exposing ourselves to UV-rays. As Paracelus discovered, the dosage makes the poison! In too high a dose sunlight and sun beds have a negative effect on our skin. This applies to UV-C rays (250-280 nm), UV-B rays (280-315 nm) as well as UV-A rays (315-400 nm). It we do not overdo our exposure to radiation, under normal circumstances our skin is able to prevent or repair damage through its own protective and reparative systems. Also important in this context is an intact immune system, which has an enduring influence on our nourishment and way of life. When the repair mechanisms are overburdened by strong UV-radiation it has serious and far-reaching consequences for the skin. Premature ageing and the formation of wrinkles are the most of harmless of these consequences. Much worse is the damage to the DNA of the cell nuclei, which alters genetic information and causes cells to proliferate uncontrollably and to form tumours. Particularly serious is the so-called “black cancer” or melanoma, which develops from a proliferation in malignant mutated melanocytes and which quickly forms secondary tumours in the rest of the body. It is important to avoid risks such as excessive UV-radiation and ensure early detection of developing melanomas; otherwise there is no chance of survival whatsoever.

Cosmeticians have a responsibility to send their clients to a dermatologist at the slightest indication of a malignant skin mutation. What should raise suspicions of a melanoma are all pigmented skin anomalies which rapidly increase in size, have an irregular edges, become inflamed, bleed easily, have an uneven surface or are darkly or irregularly pigmented. Dr. Baumann SkinIdent runs dermatological seminars for its cosmeticians, which deal not only with early recognition of skin cancer but also other relevant dermatological illnesses which are relevant to cosmetic practise, and the correct treatment of specific skin problems. Excess exposure to UV-radiation and now more than ever a case of sunburn should be avoided at all costs, as this damage is irreversible and cannot be undone. Today it is considered a fact that serious sunburn during childhood if responsible for melanomas in later life. An important means of protection is skin-protective vitamin E, whereby vitamin E has the capability to clearly reduce the sunburnt cells. This skin-protective vitamin should be taken internally (dietary supplements) as well as externally by applying good skincare and sun protection products.

Inorganic pigments such as the natural minerals zinc oxide and titanium oxide have the benefit of offering effective UV protection and having an exceptional compatibility with the skin. The Dr. Baumann SkinIdent research team used this knowledge to develop a new and improved generation of sun protection products with improved compatibility and protection, without the use of chemical light protection filters. The improved compatibility is due to the avoidance of substances which cause a high rate of allergies, such as perfumes and chemical preservatives.

These sun protection products, based on the latest scientific knowledge, ensure that we are sensible about our exposure to sunlight (and sun beds) and are able to enjoy a lightly tanned skin without fear.