Is sunscreen harmful due to the chemicals it contains, potentially causing cancer and other health problems? Some argue that sunscreen might even be more dangerous than sun exposure itself. Let’s dive into these claims and see what the evidence really says.

The Rise of Sunscreen Skepticism

Skepticism about sunscreen is not a new phenomenon, but it has gained significant traction in recent years. Wellness influencers and celebrities have been vocal about their beliefs, suggesting that excess sun exposure might not be harmful at all. In fact, some claim that it could even be beneficial and that sunscreen prevents us from enjoying these benefits. While there’s much to unpack in this area, our focus today is on a more pervasive argument: that sunscreen, particularly chemical sunscreens, is inherently unhealthy.

Chemical vs. Mineral Sunscreens: What’s the Difference?

To understand the controversy, we need to know the two main types of sunscreen:

1. Chemical Sunscreens:

   These work by absorbing UV rays from the sun and transforming them into harmless heat, which is then released from the skin. Chemical sunscreens are known for their lightweight, invisible application, making them a popular choice. However, the active ingredients, known as UV filters, can be absorbed into the bloodstream. Research from the FDA has shown that six of these filters can enter the bloodstream and persist for days.

2. Mineral Sunscreens:

   These create a physical barrier on the skin that reflects UV rays away. Mineral sunscreens, which typically contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, are thicker and may leave a white residue. They are often recommended for sensitive skin, including that of young children and pregnant women.

Examining the Evidence

The primary concern with chemical sunscreens involves their potential to be absorbed into the bloodstream and their long-term effects on health. Some studies have linked ingredients like oxybenzone to hormone disruption and altered kidney function, though these effects have been observed mainly in animal research. For instance, rats exposed to large amounts of oxybenzone through their diet showed negative health impacts. To achieve similar exposure through sunscreen, one would need to apply it liberally all over the body every day for 30 years.

Another ingredient, octocrylene, degrades into benzophenone, a chemical suspected of being carcinogenic. Research has detected benzophenone in sunscreens containing octocrylene, raising concerns. While some argue that the amounts of these chemicals are minimal and not clearly harmful, others, including Yale dermatologist Dr. Bunick, warn about the potential for chronic buildup and cumulative effects.

Environmental Concerns

Environmental groups have also raised alarms about certain sunscreen ingredients, particularly octocrylene, which is linked to coral bleaching. Hawaii has responded by banning the ingredient and advocating for a nationwide ban, marking a significant step toward protecting marine ecosystems.

The Importance of Sun Protection

Despite these concerns, it’s crucial to remember that skin cancer remains the most common type of cancer in the US, and UV radiation from the sun is a major risk factor. Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, is strongly linked to UV exposure. Studies show that having five or more blistering sunburns between ages 15 and 20 can increase melanoma risk by 80%.

Even without considering cancer risk, sun exposure can cause visible damage, such as wrinkles and dark patches. There are two types of UV rays:

• UVA Rays:

  These penetrate deeper into the skin and are associated with aging, wrinkles, and dark spots.

• UVB Rays:

  These are responsible for sunburns and are more intense but vary with the seasons and times of day.

Effective sun protection should include both types of UV protection. Some sunscreens may not adequately block UVA rays, so it’s wise to seek additional sun protection measures, like seeking shade or wearing UV-protective clothing.

Sun Protection Beyond Sunscreen

When it comes to sun protection, SPF (Sun Protection Factor) measures how long you can stay in the sun before your skin starts to turn red compared to without sunscreen. For example, SPF 15 protects against 93% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 protects against 98%. On the other hand, UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) measures how much UV radiation can pass through a fabric. A basic cotton T-shirt has a UPF of 5, blocking 80% of UV rays, while a UPF 50 sun shirt blocks 98%.

The Debate on Vitamin D

A concern often raised is that avoiding sun exposure might lead to vitamin D deficiency. While sunlight is a major source of vitamin D, you can get adequate amounts with just 15 minutes of midday sun a few times a week. Moreover, research shows that sunscreen use does not significantly impact vitamin D levels. Vitamin D can also be obtained from dietary sources like salmon and eggs.

The Bottom Line

The debate over sunscreen’s safety is complex. While some chemical ingredients have been shown to be absorbed into the body and linked to potential health issues, there is no conclusive evidence proving that they cause cancer or other health problems in humans. Sunscreen remains a crucial tool in preventing skin cancer and protecting overall skin health. If you’re concerned about specific chemicals, mineral sunscreens offer a safer alternative with ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are generally regarded as safe.

The sunscreen industry is evolving, and there’s a push for better regulations and newer, safer ingredients. In the meantime, it’s important to continue using broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher as part of your sun protection routine.

This claim about sunscreen being inherently harmful rates a 4. While there are valid concerns, the overall benefits of using sunscreen outweigh the potential risks.