Ultraviolet (UV) radiation if responsible for more than half of all human skin cancers (including melanoma), according to researchers from the Boston University School of Medicine, Department of Dermatology.  But without exposure to adequate amounts of sunlight, the human body can’t produce vitamin D: vital to bone, muscular and immune health.

Then there is the issue of sunscreen — a controversial topic because so many of today’s commercial products contain harmful chemicals.  So what’s a sun-sensitive person to do?

The key to a healthy and safe summer, says Dr. Smith is finding a way to protect the skin from cancer without polluting the body with toxic chemicals.

Consider natural ingredients:

• Almond oil – SPF around 5
• Coconut oil – SPF 4 – 6
• Zinc oxide – SPF 2 – 20 depending on how much is used
• Red raspberry seed oil – SPF 35 – 40
• Shea butter – SPF 4-6

Look at wellnessmama.com for a recipe using the above ingredients to make an easy, natural sunscreen.

While using natural oils isn’t ideal for hours of direct midday exposure, it nourishes and protects the skin without putting harmful chemicals on it.