PABA sunscreen was the first commercially available sunscreen, but its use has been restricted due to reports of cellular damage and allergic reactions. While it effectively blocks UVB rays, it does not protect against UVA rays and is linked to an increased likelihood of skin cancer. PABA-free sunscreens that reflect both UVA and UVB rays are recommended.
Para-amino-benzoic acid (PABA) sunscreen is a commonly used lotion to absorb the sun’s ultraviolet B (UVB) rays to prevent sunburn. It was developed in the 1970s and was considered the first commercially available sunscreen. In the late 1980s, a report was published stating that PABA can cause cellular damage. It has also been reported to cause allergic reactions in some people and has been known to stain clothing. As a result, PABA sunscreen and the use of PABA as an ingredient in any type of cosmetic product has been restricted.
There are some distinct benefits to using a PABA sunscreen. For example, it easily attaches itself to the cells that make up the skin or epidermis. Because PABA sunscreen sticks so tightly to the skin, it doesn’t come off easily with a damp towel or rinse off with water. This means you don’t have to reapply it every 90 minutes, like most PABA-free sunscreens do.
In most cases, PABA sunscreen effectively blocks UVB rays. UVB rays are rays from the sun that burn the skin. These rays are the main causes of skin cancer and sunburn. However, there are also ultraviolet A (UVA) rays that are emitted by the sun, causing wrinkles and age spots. PABA sunscreen does not protect against UVA rays.
Besides not protecting your skin from the harmful UVA rays of the sun, there are other disadvantages to using PABA sunscreen. For example, an allergic reaction is possible in a small percentage of the population. Some symptoms of a PABA allergy include red patches on the skin, itching, burning, and acne breakouts.
Scientific reports linking PABA to skin cancer are the main reasons PABA sunscreens are rarely produced today. For example, one report indicated that PABA actually damaged people’s cellular DNA. As a result, it has been linked to an increased likelihood of skin cancer. While there has never been any direct evidence that PABA causes cancer, many companies have stopped using PABA in sunscreen.
Most researchers and health professionals advise people to use PABA-free sunscreens. They argue that sunscreens that reflect the sun’s rays, rather than absorbing them, are better for the body. Additionally, it is believed that people should use sunscreens that reflect both UVA and UVB rays. Although PABA is rarely used, there are some derivatives, such as octyl-dimethyl-para-amino-benzoic acid, that are used in some brands of sunscreens. While it’s important to read the label on any cosmetic or skincare product, many sunscreen brands clearly state whether or not they’re PABA-free.
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