Asked what SPF her sunscreen is, she just laughs. Mine is zero. I don't use any sunscreen. That, coupled with her natural olive coloring, prevents her from being burned. Not according to Martha Wood, cancer control coordinator for the state Department of Public Health.
Tanning is a reaction of the skin to the sun in an effort to protect itself.
Anyone can develop a skin cancer or a melanoma, even people with extremely dark skin. Wood concedes tanning is preferable to burning. With a tan, you're going to end up with wrinkles, and it's still strong sun exposure. Horton said she is aware of all the warnings about wrinkles and cancer. While the kids received a generous slathering of Waterbabies suntan lotion with a high SPF, Hayes had afforded herself less protection.