The short answer for those who like to get straight to the point is NO! No, your sunscreen is not causing cancer. In fact, it's well-established and backed by extensive research that sunscreen serves as a protective shield against the harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. These rays can otherwise lead to DNA mutations, eventually resulting in skin cancer.

As a dermatologist who focuses a large portion of her time treating and managing skin cancers, I know how skin cancers can be frustrating, distressing, and even disfiguring when advanced. That's why I am ALWAYS encouraging my patients to wear sunscreen and to practice sun protection. This isn't just about maintaining a youthful appearance and preventing premature aging; it's a crucial step in safeguarding against life-threatening skin cancers such as melanoma and merkel cell carcinomas, as well as more common types like squamous cell and basal cell carcinomas!

So, let's break down how sunscreens work. 

Sunscreens come in two types: mineral and chemical. Mineral sunscreens not only absorb but also block harmful UV rays by using inorganic ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Chemical sunscreens use organic formulations like oxybenzone, avobenzone, and others to absorb harmful UV rays from the sun. Some chemical sunscreens are more effective than others at blocking UVA rays, which have longer wavelengths capable of penetrating glass and windows. In general, mineral sunscreens are effective in blocking UVA rays overall.

So, where did the misconceptions come from that sunscreen causes skin cancer?

In 2021, Valisure, an independent for-profit lab, examined personal beauty products and discovered high levels of benzene in 78 out of 300 commercially available sunscreens and after-sun products. Benzene is not a normal component of sunscreens or personal beauty products, and the contamination was found across various brands. This contamination was thought to occur during the manufacturing process, especially with aerosolized products. Fortunately, many companies acted promptly to identify and address the source of the contamination, conducting internal testing to ensure the safety and absence of benzene in their products.

Although benzene is a known carcinogen and is present in everyday life due to pollution, cars, smoke, and other sources, it remains unclear if using products containing benzene contributed to any increased side effects. While the benzene issue from 2021 has largely been resolved, if you are concerned about benzene contamination in your sunscreen products, stick with non-aerosolized sunscreens (i.e., avoid sprays).

Another study that people quote when concerned about sunscreen found that sunscreen chemicals were absorbed into the bloodstream after use. As dermatologists, we understand that our skin can absorb substances applied to it, so it's not surprising that sunscreen chemicals would be absorbed. However, this study didn't reveal any harmful effects or suggest any dangerous side effects from this absorption. We do know that babies have a higher body surface area to weight ratio than adults, which is why we recommend physical sunscreen for children under 6 months old, as they can absorb more. If you're worried about this absorption, choose a physical sunscreen like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

Finally, some papers that looked at non-human subjects suggested endocrine disruption and even cancer from the use of certain chemical sunscreens when ingested in large quantities. Fortunately this has not been shown to be true in humans when applied topically to the skin and sunscreen remains safe to use. Despite this, concern and speculation remains so if this worries you, opt for a physical sunscreen,

Science relies on thoroughly researched and validated data that can be reproduced. We're always learning new things and updating what we know. The bottom line is that we have plenty of evidence indicating the harmful effects of the sun's radiation on our cells and body. We also know that sunscreen and photo protection are key. Choose a sunscreen that has at least an SPF of 30 or higher, that's broad spectrum (covers UVA and UVB wavelengths) and feels right for you—your skin, your body, and your health deserve it!

Don't miss this week’s podcast episode featuring Dr. Mamina where we delve deep into the world of sunscreen, exploring its significance and debunking common rumors surrounding it! 

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