Feeling the warm embrace of the summer sun on your skin is a wonderful sensation, but protecting yourself with sunscreen is vital to guard against skin cancer. However, concerns have been raised about whether the chemical ingredients in sunscreen could potentially lead to other types of cancer. To shed light on this issue, experts were consulted by Fortune to provide guidance on staying safe while enjoying sunlight.
Sunscreen typically contains various active ingredients that offer broad spectrum protection against the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays, as outlined by the American Academy of Dermatology. There are two main types of sunscreen: physical and chemical. Physical sunscreens, also known as mineral-based, utilize zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as active ingredients to create a physical barrier between your skin and the sun. On the other hand, chemical sunscreens contain a blend of different active ingredients excluding zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
The potential risks associated with sunscreen use largely depend on the type of sunscreen you choose. Most concerns pertaining to sunscreen focus on the active ingredients found in chemical sunscreens. A recent study conducted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2020 revealed that six active ingredients in various chemical sunscreens were absorbed into the body. The FDA emphasizes the importance of understanding the effects of these absorbed ingredients on the human body, particularly in relation to cancer and developmental issues.
Emily Spilman, a safety scientist with the Environmental Working Group (EWG), advocates for stronger FDA regulations based on her research into the chemical components of sunscreen. Some of these ingredients have been linked to skin allergies, immunotoxicity, hormone disruption, and endocrine disruption. Specifically, octinoxate and oxybenzone have been associated with disrupting the endocrine system, which plays a crucial role in hormone regulation.
Recent studies have highlighted the potential risks of exposure to certain chemicals in sunscreen, with some being classified as hormone disruptors and even carcinogens. While the direct link between hormone disruptors and cancer is not definitive, researchers caution that some common contaminants in sunscreens have been linked to carcinogenicity. Consumers are advised to be mindful of ingredients like octinoxate and oxybenzone, which have raised concerns regarding their impact on health.
Octocrylene, as noted by the EWG, is often found to be contaminated with benzophenone, a known carcinogen. Aerosol sunscreens have also been detected to contain benzene, a cancer-causing chemical, according to the EWG. In 2019, the FDA requested data from the manufacturers of these chemicals to assess their safety. However, Dr. Theresa Michele, Director of the FDA’s Office of Nonprescription Drugs, informs Fortune that as of now, none of the manufacturers of sunscreen active ingredients in the U.S. market have provided this data to the FDA.
Although the FDA currently does not have evidence indicating safety risks associated with the sunscreen active ingredients on the market, Dr. Michele emphasizes the importance of determining any potential risks. This is why the FDA has requested the missing safety information from manufacturers.
Regarding the safest sunscreen options, Spilman suggests that consumers can find it challenging to avoid endocrine-disrupting chemicals but not impossible. The safest choice, she says, is to use broad-spectrum mineral-based sunscreens to steer clear of potentially harmful active ingredients in chemical sunscreens. Mineral sunscreens typically contain only zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as active ingredients.
Spilman recommends opting for cream-based lotions or sunscreen sticks within mineral sunscreens, as aerosol sunscreens can be a risk if inhaled. Additionally, she advises avoiding sunscreens with “fragrances” listed in their inactive ingredients, as they may contain harmful chemicals like phthalates.
When it comes to choosing sunscreen for children, Spilman suggests selecting products formulated with higher safety standards. However, she warns that some children’s sunscreens might contain hidden phthalates. It is better to choose fragrance-free options and products that are not plastic-based whenever possible.
In addition to adhering to EWG’s sunscreen guidelines, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends looking for products that offer broad-spectrum protection, SPF 30 or higher, and water resistance. Reapplication every two hours or after swimming or sweating is also advised.
Despite concerns about sunscreen ingredients, the AAD underlines the importance of wearing sunscreen due to the risks of skin cancer from UV exposure. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., and protection against UV rays is crucial.
According to the research, there is no evidence to suggest that chemical sunscreens have any impact on a person’s health. Individuals who are worried about the ingredients in chemical sunscreens may choose to use physical sunscreens instead. The FDA, EWG, and AAD all recommend wearing sunscreen when outdoors, as the link between UV rays and cancer is well-established. For more information on skincare, a recent study highlights potential dangers in children’s skincare products and lists eight harmful ingredients commonly found in skincare and hair products. Skin cancer affects millions of Americans each year, so it’s important to know when and how often to get checked. This article was originally published on Fortune.com.
