What People Need to Know to Stay Safe and Healthy in the Summer Sun

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - June 3, 2014) - Recent reports from the Canadian Cancer Society show that skin cancer rates have risen over the past two decades, despite increased awareness of the sun's risks.

Consumers are also increasingly leery of the chemicals of which many sunscreens are comprised. These sunscreens use specific chemicals that absorb UV light to prevent burning. They can be absorbed into the skin - and that's where the question of safety is raised. The Environmental Working Group warns consumers to avoid products with chemicals oxybenzone and retinyl palmitate.

Barrier sunscreens are made with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which provide a physical, rather than chemical, barrier against the sun. Barrier sunscreens offer a number of benefits, including reducing the chemical load on our bodies (and reducing the likelihood of allergic reaction), and keeping harmful chemicals out of our waterways.

Many barrier sunscreens are made by smaller Canadian businesses, which do not test products on animals; a range of these sunscreens is carried by Ottawa-based retailer terra20.

Here are some sun safety tips from terra20:

• Particularly if you have sensitive skin, avoid products that contain oxybenzone or retinyl palmitate.
• Check the label to see that the product offers UVA and UVB protection (or "broad spectrum protection").
• Be aware that SPF protection does not increase proportionally with an increased SPF number. An SPF of 15 absorbs 93 per cent and an SPF of 30 absorbs 97 per cent. The Canadian Dermatology Association advises Canadians to opt at least SPF 30.
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
• Opt for lotions over sprays, as lotions provide more even coverage.
• Limit time spent in the sun (particularly at midday), wear a hat and cover up.
• Keep babies six months and younger out of the sun - cover them up and opt for shady spots to sit or picnic. Keep kids and children out of the midday sun to prevent burns. Health Canada studies show that people who suffered severe sunburns in childhood are at greater risk of developing skin cancer.

About terra20

A pioneer in green department store retailing, terra20 works closely with brand partners and guests to find the healthiest and most sustainable products available. terra20′s first two stores and head office are in Ottawa. Founded in Ottawa, the company plans to open additional stores across Canada in the near future and has an online store with more than 8,000 product offerings. Visit www.terra20.com for more information.