Researchers at the Environmental Working Group, a Washington-based nonprofit, claim that nearly half of the 500 most popular sunscreen products actually increase the rate at which malignant cells develop and skin cancer spreads because they contain vitamin A, and its derivatives retinol and retinyl palmitate.

Tips when using sunscreen products:

• Don't be fooled by a high UV protection filter. It can tempt you to stay in the sun longer, it suppresses sunburn but not other forms of skin damage. So lubricate regularly, even when using products with high UV protection filters.
• Vitamin A in fruit is good for you, but smearing it with vitamin A containing products is not. New data shows that tumors and lesions develop earlier on skin that has been applied with vitamin A containing lotions. 41% of sun products contain vitamin A, listed as retinyl palmitate or retinol.
• Ingredients: Avoid oxybenzone, a chemical synthetic estrogen in sun products that penetrates the skin and pollutes the body. Instead, look for products that contain zinc or a good sun cream based on natural ingredients. Also avoid sunscreens with insect repellants.
• Choose a good sunscreen. Look for a safe, broad-spectrum sunscreen with long-lasting protection and ingredients that reduce health problems.
• Cream, spray or powder - and how often? Sprays and powders atomize the air with small particles of sunscreen that may not be safe to inhale, so opt for creams and apply regularly.

Get enough vitamin D! Sunlight is necessary for our body to produce vitamin D. Enjoy a few minutes of sun without sunscreen.