When 24 volunteers were exposed to lamps with UV rays, researchers found that they had higher levels of nitric oxide and lower blood pressure, according to the research presented this week at the International Investigative Dermatology 2013 conference in Edinburgh. What’s more, this didn’t hold true when UV rays were blocked. (Note: The reduction in blood pressure can’t be attributed to vitamin D—the levels stayed the same.) The conclusion: Researchers believe the heart–healthy effects may outweigh the risk of skin cancer. Don’t throw away your sunscreen just yet. We consulted Marguerite Germain, MD, and dermatologist in South Carolina for the real deal. “Nitric oxide may reduce blood pressure, but this study only shows that the effects last for 50 minutes,” says Dr. Germain. “We know nothing about whether or not it reduces the risk of heart attack in the long-run.” Dr. Germain also notes that 1 in 5 people get skin cancer, so she would never advise people against sunscreen based on these preliminary findings. Besides, you know what else lowers blood pressure? Exercise. Sign up for our 28-Day Challenge to get healthy, better your body, and live longer. And keep slathering on the sunscreen: Here’s how to Decode Sunscreen Ingredients and How Much Sunscreen You Should Use.
