As you’re enjoying the last rays of summer, consider that in a
few years you could be lathering on the coffee to prevent skin
cancer. Findings published in the Proceedings of the National
Academy of Science suggests that chemicals commonly found in
coffee have the ability to absorb UV radiation when applied
directly to the skin. Researchers at Rutgers University
genetically engineered mice to suppress the same enzyme that
caffeine does in humans and have found that they were slower to
develop skin cancer. Because of its ability to suppress ATR, the
enzyme responsible for turning damaged skin cells cancerous,
scientists have suggested that caffeine could be added to
sunscreens to boost protection levels. In a strange twist,
caffeine molecules may also help you develop a nice tan in
addition to protecting your skin from tumors and cancer.
Caffeine has actually been shown to stimulate pigment cells,
urging them to produce more color. So, a safer tan may not be
too far on the horizon.