Don't buy body creams that have an SPF rating for daily use as moisturizers. Dermatologists never recommended the inclusion of sunscreens in body lotion and creams for daily use. Not simply because they can cause vitamin D deficiencies, but recent research indicates that the use of sun screening compounds is accompanied by other health hazards.

Doctors are seeing increasingly high numbers of melanomas in people who regularly use body creams with sunscreen. A melanoma is a deadly form of skin cancer. It seems that most sunscreens protect against some UV radiation, but not all of it.

It also appears that the organic and synthetic compounds were approved by regulating agencies in the European Union and the United States before they were tested for safety. Several of the compounds may actually increase free radical damage, the root cause of skin cancer.

Researchers have proven that one of the organic compounds, oxybenzone, damages DNA strands and increases free radical production. It's a naturally occurring chemical, but apparently Mother Nature never intended it for use as a sun block since it only does damage when exposed to UV light.

There are still many body lotion and creams on the market that contain oxybenzone, even though the research was published over two years ago. At some point, the use of the compound may be banned, but it's not likely to happen any time soon.

It is particularly common to see sunscreen chemicals in anti-aging skincare products. Whenever possible, you should avoid those products.

If you expect to spend extended periods in direct sunlight, use a broad spectrum sun block that contains zinc oxide. For daily use, look for body lotion and creams that contain vitamin B5 and antioxidants.

Vitamin B5 provides some natural protection against sunburns while moisturizing. Body creams that contain it can also be used to soothe existing burns whether from the sun or other sources.

Antioxidants prevent and repair free radical damage. Coenzyme Q10, natural vitamin E, grape seed extract and honey enzymes are all effective antioxidants.

All body lotion and creams should counter the signs of aging. This is not simply because you don't want to look older before your time, but also because the good ones protect the skin's overall health. The outside of your body needs nourishment just like the inside does.

Body creams can provide the needed nourishment if they contain the proper ingredients in the right formulation. You should avoid anything that contains petrolatum, preservatives or added fragrances. None of them are good for your skin's health.

You should look for body lotion and creams that contain jojoba, a natural liquid wax that's similar to the skin's own sebum. Natural vitamin E is an effective preservative. There's no need for companies to use other preservatives, but natural vitamin E is more expensive than the synthetic type. Cosmetic companies are always trying to save money on ingredients, so they can spend more on advertising campaigns.

There are some excellent new body creams on the market. You just have to know where to look for them.