Ever head of “sunxiety” It’s when a person is fearful of damage from the sun, and according to one dermatologist, it’s a growing trend. NBC Chicago’s Health and Wellness Reporter Lauren Petty reports.
While some relish the summer sun, others are taking sunblock a step further by staying out of the sun completely.
"Some people are so fearful of the sun that they're actually either covering up completely when they do go out or they're staying indoors essentially throughout all of the day," said Dr. David Reid, the dermatology chair at Rush University Medical Center.
"Sunxiety" is real, according to the doctor.
"It's a fear of the sun or of damage from the sun, and this is increasingly common amongst our patients," he explained.
In a survey from behavioral research firm Veylinx, while 71% of people cherish moments in the sun, 38% of people report never feeling fully relaxed in the sun and 41% expressed concerns about sun damage.
"There's evidence that sun exposure, especially excessive sun exposure, does cause skin cancer or is associated with it," he said. "Also, it is associated with accelerated aging of the skin."
While there are very good reasons to be concerned about too much exposure to the sun, there are also benefits that can't be overlooked, as well.
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Many benefits of the sun including vitamin D production, increased mood, regulation of the sleep-wake cycle, the doctor explained.
Even as a dermatologist, Reid believes sun in moderation is best for one's physical and mental health.
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"Withdrawing exclusively and not getting any sun exposure, not exercising outdoors, not meeting friends and family for outdoor activities, that's not beneficial either," Reid said.
Sun safety includes paying attention to the time of day, and sunscreen is a must.
For most people, a minimum of SPF 30 is recommended - somewhere between 30 and 50 is sufficient, Reid stated.
The Veylinx survey found more consumers are looking for multitasking products that offer sun protection and anti-aging benefits like vitamin C, but do they work?
"We're seeing more of those on the market, and overall, they're very effective at preventing sun damage and preventing skin cancer and the aging of skin," Reid said.
Experts say the best sunscreen is the one you're going to use. If you're going to be outdoors for a while, the recommendation is that you reapply every two hours.
"We know that most people don't apply enough as well as the importance of reapplying," the doctor stated.
