Major news organizations (e.g., NBC, CBS) and NPR are warning consumers about young influencers on social media who are claiming that chemicals in sunscreen are worse than the sun damage they help prevent.
(Brightworks via Flickr Creative Commons)“There have been several high-profile individuals,” says Dr Heather Rogers, a dermatologist based in Seattle, on NPR, “who have talked about how they don’t wear sunscreen, about how it’s not natural to wear sunscreen, about how sunscreen causes cancer. That’s not based on fact, and it’s not accurate information.”
Now, some people may have sensitivities to ingredients like oxybenzone, which can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. If you’re sensitive to one of these chemicals, look for hypoallergenic or sensitive-skin formulas. Some sunscreen ingredients can also harm marine life, particularly coral reefs. Look for reef-safe sunscreens if you’ll be swimming in the ocean.
But although I’m not a dermatologist, I’m also not a promoter or influencer, especially regarding anti-sunscreen products. These are a few important factors I’ve learned over the years for you to consider to ensure proper skin protection from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays:
Types of UV Rays
- UVA Rays: Penetrate deep into the skin and contribute to premature aging and skin cancer.
- UVB Rays: Cause sunburn and play a key role in developing skin cancer.
The most effective sunscreens provide “broad-spectrum protection,” which protects against UVA and UVB rays.
Sunscreen Types
- Chemical Sunscreens: Absorb UV rays. Common ingredients include avobenzone, octinoxate, and oxybenzone.
- Physical (Mineral) Sunscreens: Reflect UV rays. Common ingredients include zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
SPF (Sun Protection Factor)
The SPF rating on sunscreen indicates the level of protection against UVB rays. Higher SPF numbers offer more protection.
- SPF 30: Blocks approximately 97% of UVB rays.
- SPF 50: Blocks approximately 98% of UVB rays.
- SPF 100: Blocks approximately 99% of UVB rays.
Application Tips
The best advice is to use about one ounce to cover the entire body, applying it about 20 or 30 minutes before sun exposure. Then, reapply sunscreen every two hours or immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.
Some Additional Information
Many sunscreens available today are water-resistant. If you’re swimming or sweating, you need one, but no sunscreen is completely waterproof or sweat-proof.
Most sunscreen products lose their effectiveness over time. Check the expiration date and replace old sunscreen.
Wear sunscreen every day, even when it’s cloudy or when you’re indoors near windows. Don’t neglect your lips—many lip balms on the market offer SPF. Finally, let the sunscreen work with your clothing, including hats and sunglasses. And stay in the shade whenever you can.
By remembering these points, you can effectively protect your skin from sun damage and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
