“I’m a little tired of reading and writing about sunscreen. Maybe it’s not the actual reading and writing that has me worn out. Maybe it’s the realization that I keep reading and writing about sunscreen yet the information is just not sinking in with the masses of sun-hungry people out there — according to the EPA, there has been a staggering 1,800 percent increase in malignant melanoma cases since 1930. Recent figures show a shocking rise in skin cancers among those in their 20s and 30s.” http://www.thecancerblog.com/2007/07/21/worthy-wisdom-suncreen-sunscreen-sunscreen/

“Sunscreens not only reduce sunburns, but the author knows from decades of patient care that sunscreens also definitely reduce precancers of the squamous type and they definitely reduce basal and squamous-cell cancers. No wonder these patients felt protected. They could see the results for themselves, less cancers and better-looking skin. Even if Dr. Berwick is right, there is no reason to abandon sunscreens just because they might be ineffective against melanoma, a cancer that affects only 1 in 100 to 125 Americans. Sunscreens certainly work against other cancers, as well as prevent painful sunburns. However, Americans who are susceptible to, or at risk, of melanoma should be concerned…”

http://www.skincancerinfo.com/sectiong/sunscreens.html

Without overloading you with the same old sunscreen admonitions, the gist of everything I read was that if you have a history of melanoma in your family, then sunscreens are not a true safeguard for you to abuse your skin. You or your loved one(s) are at a much higher risk with or without sunscreen so wear the appropriate clothing and reduce your time in the sun. This limits your activities but extends your life. Whether on a high mountain lake, the tropical flats, a high desert river or a remote bay in Alaska the sun is often welcomed for a sense of well being and vitality. But, we all know how harsh it can be. How many passes do we get until there are consequences?