Munich, June 27 – A leading Munich dermatologist has issued a strong warning about the dangers of sun exposure, stating unequivocally that “there is no such thing as a healthy tan.” Dr. Christoph Liebich’s remarks come as Germany faces a significant increase in skin cancer cases, now the most common form of cancer in the country.
Skin Cancer: A Growing Public Health Concern
With approximately 355,000 new cases and 4,500 deaths annually, skin cancer has become Germany’s most prevalent cancer. Dr. Liebich, who heads the Dermazent practice in Hackenstrasse, stressed that “the alpha and omega to avoid skin cancer is sun protection.”
Doubling of Black Skin Cancer Cases, Tripling of White Skin Cancer
According to the German Dermatological Society, cases of black skin cancer have doubled in the last 25 years, while white skin cancer has almost tripled. White skin cancer is primarily caused by cumulative UV-B exposure over a lifetime, often appearing on “the face or bald head, the sun terraces,” explained Dr. Liebich. Severe sunburns in childhood are identified as the main trigger for black skin cancer.
Key Facts on Sun Protection from the Expert:
- The Myth of a Tan: While a sun-kissed tan was once considered a sign of health, it is now understood that any tan indicates damaged skin cells. The skin changes color as a defense mechanism against sunlight.
- Two Types of Radiation: UV-B radiation primarily affects the skin’s surface, causing sunburn, while UV-A radiation penetrates deep into the skin, leading to premature skin aging.
- Not Age-Dependent: Skin cancer affects all ages. Black skin cancer is now the most common cancer among young women aged 20 to 29, and the third most common among young men in the same age group, according to the German Cancer Aid.
- Midday Sun: Seek shade between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV-B radiation is most intense.
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF): Use a high SPF, such as SPF 50. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UV-B rays, while SPF 50 blocks around 98%. This seemingly small 1% difference provides a crucial protection buffer.
- Best Application Time: Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside to allow it to absorb properly.
- Ingredient Risk: While some sunscreen ingredients, such as certain chemical UV filters, are suspected of posing health risks, the danger of developing skin cancer without sunscreen is far greater than the potential risks from these substances.
- Organic vs. Conventional Sunscreen: Organic sunscreens use mineral filters like zinc oxide, while conventional products use chemical UV filters that are absorbed into the skin. Broad-spectrum UV-A and UV-B protection is essential, indicated by the round UV-A symbol on the packaging. All EU-approved sunscreens, whether organic or conventional, protect against these rays.
- Correct Amount: Two milligrams of sunscreen per square centimeter of skin are recommended. This translates to about one teaspoon for the face and neck, and four tablespoons for an adult’s body. A 200-ml bottle should be empty after five to six uses.
- Skin Aging: UV-A rays destroy connective tissue, leading to premature skin aging. Up to 80% of visible facial aging signs are attributed to UV rays. Untanned skin retains its elastic fibers longer, resulting in significantly fewer wrinkles and pigment spots.
Everyday Protection is Crucial
Sunscreen isn’t just for holidays. The risk of UV exposure exists during daily activities like cycling to work, taking a lunch break walk, or gardening. Individuals with fair skin should use creams with SPF 50. A day cream with SPF 15 is insufficient.
Shade and Water
While shade can significantly reduce UV exposure, a considerable amount can still pass through, depending on its density (e.g., under a parasol). Clouds also do not provide complete protection from UV rays. The water surface reflects UV light, increasing radiation exposure. Submerging oneself does not prevent sunburn, as radiation penetrates up to one meter deep into the water.
No Benefit from Solariums
Solariums lack the UV-B radiation necessary to thicken the skin and build a protective light callus. Artificial tanning offers no protection; solariums are ineffective for pre-tanning. The World Health Organization classifies artificial UV radiation as the highest cancer risk category.
Dietary Supplements Offer Minimal Protection
There is no such thing as internal sun protection. Dietary supplements like carotene tablets provide only minimal inherent skin protection, equivalent to SPF 2. A healthy diet rich in vegetables and fish is a better alternative.
Sunburn Relief
Aspirin, due to its anti-inflammatory acetylsalicylic acid, or creams with low-dose hydrocortisone can help relieve sunburn. A home remedy involves applying quark (a type of fresh dairy product) for no longer than ten minutes to prevent heat buildup.
Regular Screenings for Early Detection
Early detection can save lives. In Germany, those with statutory health insurance are entitled to a free skin cancer screening every two years from the age of 35. Many health insurance providers cover this examination even earlier. Screenings are performed by dermatologists and specially trained general practitioners. Dr. Christoph Liebich is pictured examining Bavarian sprinter Maximilian Achhammer.
Stiftung Warentest: Sun Protection for All Ages
Stiftung Warentest, a German consumer organization, recently tested 23 creams, sprays, and roll-on products for children with SPF 30, 50, and 50+. The results, published in issue 7/2026 (prices from April), showed that 18 of the 23 products offered good UV protection, while five failed. Six top-rated products for children include:
- Cien Sun Kids Sonnenspray (Lidl, SPF 50): Good (1.7)
- Tabaluga Sonnenspray für Kinder Sensitiv (Netto, Edeka, Budni, SPF 50+): Good (1.7)
- Babylove Sonnencreme Ultra Sensitive (dm, SPF 50+): Good (1.8)
- Sunozon Kids Sonnenmilch (Rossmann, SPF 50+): Good (1.8)
- Garnier Ambre Solaire Kids Sensitive Expert+ Sonnenschutz Roll-on (SPF 50+): Good (2.0)
- Nivea Sun, Kids Schutz & Pflege 5in1 (SPF 50+): Good (2.0)
In summer 2025, Stiftung Warentest also analyzed 26 sunscreens for adults, with eight receiving an “excellent” rating. Six examples (current prices) are:
- Lacura Sun Sonnenspray (Aldi, SPF 50): 1.5
- Sundance Sonnenmilch (dm, SPF 50): 1.5
- Ladival Allergische Haut Sonnenschutz-Gel (SPF 30): 1.6
- Cien Sun Sonnenmilch (Lidl, SPF 30): 1.5
- Lavozon Sonnenmilch (Müller, SPF 30): 1.5
- Nivea Sun Schutz & Pflege Invisible Finish (SPF 50+): 1.5
Water-Resistant and SPF: According to Stiftung Warentest, “water-resistant” means that half of the SPF remains effective after two 20-minute periods in water. SPF extends the skin’s natural protection time. For example, if your skin’s natural protection time is ten minutes and you use SPF 30, you theoretically have 300 minutes of protection. However, experts advise against fully utilizing this time. Reapply sunscreen approximately every two hours, especially after swimming!
Source: https://www.tz.de/muenchen/stadt/muenchner-arzt-warnt-vor-hautkrebs-es-gibt-keine-gesunde-braeune-zr-94367405.html
