Sunscreens do not protect from the fatal melanoma, one of the most common forms of cancer, a new research shows.
The study, conducted by researchers at the Cancer Research UK's Manchester Institute, on mice showed that sunscreen slowed down melanoma development. However, it did not prevent the cancer.
Researchers said that the study suggests that using multiple protective measures is advisable rather than depending only on one option.
"We've known for some time that sunscreen, when applied properly, can help protect our skin from the harmful effects of the sun's rays. But people tend to think they're invincible once they've put it on and end up spending longer out in the sun, increasing their overall exposure to UV rays," said Dr Julie Sharp, head of health information at Cancer Research UK, in a press release..
Ultraviolet rays emitted from the sun harms DNA in skin's pigment cells. The changes in the genetic material increase chances of melanoma development. Previously, research has shown that UV radiation damages p53 gene that normally helps the body to resist cancer development.
"UV light targets the very genes protecting us from its own damaging effects, showing how dangerous this cancer-causing agent is. Very importantly, this study provides proof that sunscreen does not offer complete protection from the damaging effects of UV light," said Richard Marais, study author and Cancer Research UK scientist, based at the University of Manchester.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises people to protect themselves from sun's harmful rays between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. (when exposure to UV rays might prove to be most hazardous), wear clothing that cover arms and legs, and use sunscreens to avoid skin cancer.
The study is published in the journal 'Nature'.
