Do We Really Need Sunscreen?

Crunchy Domestic Goddess recently posted a helpful article on harmful chemicals to watch out for in our childrens' sunscreen, as well as resources for finding safe sunscreens. I am wondering about the real need for sunscreen, so I've done a small amount of reading on the subject.

William Cambell Douglass, MD writes in his article Sunlight and Melanoma that sunlight actually reduces your risk of skin cancer. He recommends tossing the sunscreen, saying, "So when you slather on high-SPF sunscreens, not only are you increasing your risk of melanoma, you're also increasing your risk of developing all of the conditions that can arise from a vitamin D deficiency because you're literally blocking vitamin D synthesis in the skin." Some studies, on the other hand, advocate a more balanced approach of exposing unprotected skin to sunlight in small amounts of about 15-30 minutes per day. All of these studies highlight the body's need for the vitamin D generated by the sun.

I think the consensus from what I've read so far is that small amounts of sun is good, but getting burned is bad. So, I guess I'll be looking for safe sunscreen to use for those times when it looks like we risk getting burned. I've also heard rumors that coconut oil may be a sunscreen alternative, but I'm having trouble finding any literature on it. Any ideas?


Related posts/links:
UV Advantage- a variety of articles on sun exposure and vitamin D
Sources of Vitamin D: Sunlight
Sunscreen use actually causes cancer, and others from Natural News
Dr. Mercola on sunscreen
Natural Sun Protection
Is Your Sunscreen Safe?
Best sunscreen choices
Creating a Healthier Home