Chemical sunscreen is not safe

Other View vs Mainstream View

There is a non-mainstream point of view that "chemical sunscreen is not safe". Let's take a look into pros and cons of this statement:

1. Pros: Some studies have suggested that certain chemical UV filters commonly used in sunscreens, such as oxybenzone, homosalate, and octinoxate, may have endocrine-disrupting effects in animal studies or laboratory settings. However, the evidence for human health impacts at typical exposure levels is not conclusive.
   – Cons (Mainstream View): The FDA has determined that two mineral sunscreen ingredients, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, are generally recognized as safe and effective (GRASE) for use in sunscreens. However, more safety data is still needed for 12 other chemical sunscreen ingredients before a final GRASE determination can be made.

2. Pros: After applying chemical sunscreen, active ingredients like avobenzone are absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin. The long-term health implications of this systemic exposure are not yet fully understood, warranting further research.
   – Cons (Mainstream View): While absorption of sunscreen ingredients has been demonstrated, the mere presence of a chemical in the body does not necessarily indicate harm. The FDA and medical experts emphasize that the benefits of using sunscreen to prevent skin cancer still outweigh the potential risks based on currently available data.

3. Pros: Animal studies have found that some chemical sunscreen ingredients, when administered in high doses, can have adverse effects on the endocrine system. This raises questions about their safety for human use, especially with regular application starting from a young age.
   – Cons (Mainstream View): Many animal studies use doses significantly higher than typical human exposure from sunscreen use. Most experts believe the weight of real-world evidence does not currently suggest these ingredients pose a serious health risk when used as directed.

4. Pros: Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are considered safe and effective by the FDA.
   – Cons (Mainstream View): Recent research has shown that mineral sunscreens also work primarily by absorption, not just by physically blocking UV rays. Additionally, there is some evidence that nanoparticles of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide can be absorbed into the skin, although to a lesser extent than chemical filters.

5. Pros: The long-term safety of chemical sunscreens, particularly for daily use starting in childhood, has not been definitively established. Continued research and ongoing evaluation of new data is needed to ensure these products are safe for public use.
   – Cons (Mainstream View): Based on the currently available scientific evidence, the FDA and medical community still recommend using sunscreen, including products with chemical filters, as an important tool for preventing skin cancer. The known benefits are believed to outweigh the hypothetical risks at this time. Avoiding sunscreen altogether is ill-advised.

Terms

• Endocrine disruptors: Chemicals that can interfere with the body's hormonal (endocrine) system. Some studies suggest certain sunscreen ingredients may have endocrine-disrupting effects, but more research is needed to confirm human health impacts at typical exposure levels.

• Chemical UV filters: Ingredients like oxybenzone, avobenzone, homosalate, and octinoxate that work primarily by absorbing UV radiation to prevent skin damage. They are organic (carbon-based) compounds.

• Systemic absorption: The process by which a substance enters the bloodstream and is distributed throughout the body after being absorbed through the skin, lungs, or digestive tract.

• Mineral (inorganic) sunscreen: Sunscreens that use mineral UV filters like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These ingredients are less systemically absorbed compared to chemical filters and work mainly by absorbing UV rays, with some physical UV blocking properties as well.

• GRASE (generally recognized as safe and effective): An FDA designation for over-the-counter drug ingredients that have sufficient evidence of safety and efficacy based on scientific data and expert consensus.

Analogy

The debate over chemical sunscreen safety is reminiscent of early concerns about cell phone radiation. While some studies suggested potential health risks, the overall scientific consensus based on available evidence was that the benefits of this technology outweighed the hypothetical dangers. Regulatory agencies and health organizations continue to monitor the research and update recommendations as needed. Similarly, while questions have been raised about chemical sunscreens, the medical community currently believes their skin cancer prevention benefits justify their use while further safety data is collected.

History

1. 1970s: Chemical sunscreens gain popularity as research links UV exposure to skin cancer.

2. 1990s-2000s: Studies begin to examine potential endocrine effects of some sunscreen ingredients.

3. 2019: FDA determines that zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are GRASE for use in sunscreens. More safety data is requested for 12 other chemical sunscreen ingredients.

4. 2020: FDA study shows systemic absorption of chemical sunscreen ingredients, prompting further evaluation of health impacts and additional safety studies.

5. 2021: Independent testing finds benzene contamination in some sunscreen products, leading to voluntary recalls. FDA later emphasizes that benzene is not an intended ingredient.

How to use this information

1. For infants and young children, mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are preferred as a precaution. Their developing bodies may be more vulnerable to potential endocrine-disrupting effects. Adults can use either mineral or chemical sunscreens as recommended by the FDA and medical organizations.

2. Stay informed about sunscreen safety research, but be cautious of alarmist headlines or definitive claims not supported by scientific consensus. Consult reputable health resources and regulatory agencies for the most reliable, up-to-date information.

3. If you have concerns about specific sunscreen ingredients, talk to your doctor or dermatologist. They can provide personalized guidance based on your health history and skin cancer risk factors.

Facts

• The FDA has determined that zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are GRASE for use in sunscreens. More safety data is still needed for 12 other chemical sunscreen ingredients before a final GRASE determination can be made.

• In 2021, benzene contamination was discovered in some sunscreen products during independent testing, triggering voluntary recalls. The FDA later stated that benzene is not an intentionally added ingredient.

• Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Using sunscreen regularly, along with other sun protection measures, can significantly reduce your risk.

• While some studies have suggested endocrine-disrupting effects from certain chemical sunscreen ingredients, most were conducted on animals or in laboratory settings, using doses much higher than typical real-world exposure from sunscreen use.