Sun Safety or Health Hazard?
Why Avoiding the Sun and Wearing Sunscreen Is Doing Considerably More Harm Than Good
Sunlight is one of the most vital elements for our health, cutting in half our risk of mortality and cancer, yet we are constantly told by marketing, Dermatologists, and well intentioned aestheticians in the Medical Spa industry to avoid it, to the point of absurdity.
While the importance of vitamin D is widely acknowledged and produced in the human body only through exposure to sunlight, many other critical functions of light, having beneficial effects on health within plants, animals, and humans remain largely a mystery to science. Blood's key function includes conducting light throughout the body, and when this process is disrupted, such as by wearing glasses that block essential parts of the electromagnetic spectrum, significant illnesses can develop, skin cancer not being one of them.
It is well known in the medical profession that dermatology was once one of the least desirable fields. This changed dramatically when dermatologists rebranded themselves as cancer fighters, launching a crusade, urging everyone to get regular skin cancer exams. By labeling completely benign cancers as deadly and claiming that sunlight causes skin cancer (while omitting that lack of sunlight can lead to fatal skin cancer), they transformed dermatology into a lucrative specialty. This rebranding led to widespread fear, despite billions spent annually on skin cancer, the total death rate from skin cancer has actually increased significantly, despite the never ending application of sunscreen. Industries with vested interests lobby to obscure the true causes of skin cancer, diverting attention away from potentially significant contributors to the disease.
Understanding the Chemistry of Sunscreens
Both Chemical Sunscreens and Physical Sunblocks, widely used for their convenience and effectiveness in preventing sunburn, operate by absorbing ultraviolet (UV) radiation and converting it into heat. And yet, this conversion of UV radiation to “heat” does not lead to the burning of our skin. This involves a chemical reaction that dissipates the heat accumulating in our skin, thus, preventing it from burning. The way it does so, is something almost no one thinks to contemplate, question, or evaluate. It’s simply regarded as an unquestioned miracle of chemical science, allowing us to enjoy more time in the Sun without suffering the cost of doing so. Or do we?
Over the past 25 years working in Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, I have had the privilege of collaborating with many talented scientists and researchers. Nearly 20 years ago, during a conversation with a dermatologist in Ohio and his national team who had conducted extensive studies on sunscreens with, I was startled when he shared with me that he actually advised his patients against using sunscreen. Working for a company that sold a sunscreen, I thought that was patently absurd and irresponsible. When I asked why, honestly thinking he’d lost his mind, he began by asking me a simple questions. “Do you know how sunscreens prevent your skin from burning?” I sheepishly responded with a simple, “no, not exactly.” Being considerate and understanding of my ignorance, he began to explain in detail, the chemistry of sunscreens and the science behind how they work. When he finished, suffice it to say my jaw was on the floor. I was astounded by what I heard. Since that time, increasing research has unveiled the risks associated with sunscreens. As a result, I not only refrain from advocating for chemical sunscreens but also strongly advise against their use, recommending alternative sun protection strategies instead, not the least of which is a metered, measured approach to exposure in Spring to capitalize on what the body does best . . . protect you.
Sunscreen Ingredients
Chemical sunscreens contain ingredients like avobenzone, oxybenzone, octinoxate, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and retinyl palmitate. Just like processed foods that contain countless, 5 - 6 syllable word ingredients most would never venture to try and pronounce and have very adverse effects on human health, sunscreens contain an array of chemicals that only compound the effect of the chemicals we put in our body with what we put “on” our body. Since these are all ingredients the average reader cannot possibly understand the chemical structure of, the chemical interactions of, much less understand what they do on your skin, and in the bloodstream, I wanted to provide a detailed breakdown of these ingredients here for you so you can begin to understand the health risks involved with each of them:
Avobenzone
Stability Issues: Avobenzone is a popular UV filter because it provides broad-spectrum protection by absorbing UVA rays. However, it degrades quickly when exposed to sunlight, losing up to 50% of its efficacy within 30 minutes. This degradation leads to the formation of free radicals, which can cause skin damage and premature aging (Cancer information and support ).
Health Concerns: To counteract its instability, avobenzone is often combined with stabilizers like octocrylene, which can further complicate its safety profile. Avobenzone can also cause skin irritation and is suspected to disrupt hormonal functions by mimicking estrogen (Comprehensive Cancer Information) (Stanford Medicine).
Oxybenzone
Penetration and Persistence: Oxybenzone is a UV filter that penetrates the skin and enters the bloodstream. It has been detected in urine, blood, and breast milk, indicating systemic absorption. This chemical is an endocrine disruptor, meaning it can interfere with hormone function, potentially affecting reproductive and developmental health (Stanford Medicine) (EWG).
Environmental Impact: Oxybenzone has been directly linked to coral bleaching and reef damage. Even low concentrations (62 parts per trillion) can cause coral larvae to deform and die, contributing significantly to the decline of coral reefs worldwide (EWG) (Cancer information and support ).
Octinoxate
Endocrine Disruption: Octinoxate, or octyl methoxycinnamate, is readily absorbed through the skin and has been shown to disrupt endocrine functions by mimicking estrogen. This can affect reproductive systems and is particularly concerning for pregnant women and children (Comprehensive Cancer Information) (Stanford Medicine).
Environmental Harm: Similar to oxybenzone, octinoxate is toxic to aquatic life. It can cause coral bleaching and has detrimental effects on marine ecosystems even at low concentrations (EWG).
Octisalate
Stabilizer and Sensitizer: Octisalate is used to stabilize avobenzone, preventing it from breaking down in sunlight. However, it can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Its role as a sensitizer means it can increase the skin’s susceptibility to other allergens and irritants (Comprehensive Cancer Information) (EWG).
Octocrylene
Accumulation and Allergies: Octocrylene absorbs UVB and short UVA rays, converting them into heat. It is often used to stabilize avobenzone but can accumulate in the body over time. This accumulation is concerning because octocrylene can cause skin allergies and has been found to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can lead to oxidative stress and cell damage (Stanford Medicine) (EWG).
Homosalate
Penetration Enhancer: Homosalate is effective in absorbing UVB radiation. It also acts as a penetration enhancer, allowing other chemicals to penetrate the skin more easily. This property raises concerns about its potential to disrupt hormone function, as it can facilitate the entry of other harmful chemicals into the body (Comprehensive Cancer Information) (EWG).
Health Risks: Homosalate can accumulate in the body and break down into toxic byproducts, raising concerns about its long-term safety and its potential role as an endocrine disruptor (Stanford Medicine).
Retinyl Palmitate
Form of Vitamin A: Retinyl palmitate is an antioxidant that is used in sunscreens to improve skin appearance by reducing wrinkles. However, under sunlight, it can break down into retinoic acid, which generates free radicals. These free radicals can damage DNA, accelerate skin aging, and increase the risk of skin cancer (EWG) (Cancer information and support ).
Carcinogenic Potential: Studies have shown that retinyl palmitate can enhance the development of skin tumors and lesions when applied to the skin in the presence of sunlight, raising significant concerns about its use in sunscreens (Comprehensive Cancer Information).
These ingredients all work by absorbing ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, which are high-energy forms of light that can damage the skin. When these chemicals absorb UV radiation, they enter a higher energy state, known as an "excited state." Think of it like a battery that has been charged up with energy from the sun. To get rid of this extra energy and return to their normal state (ground state), the chemicals release the energy as heat.
Though we’ve grown accustomed to applying sunscreens to mitigate sunburn, as you can see in the list above, this process isn't as benign or harmless as one might think. When these chemicals ingredients in sunscreens release the accumulated energy, they do so through the loss of an electron from the molecules that make up the chemical structure of the sunscreen. This loss of an electron leads to the creation of free radicals mentioned in the list.
Atoms in their ground state carry no charge or have a net charge of zero – being neither positively nor negatively charged. They’re neutral. Free radicals, by contrast, in the absence of a lost electron, are unstable, charged, highly reactive molecules that can damage cellular components, including DNA, proteins, and lipids by stripping an electron from the molecules that make up these structures. This stripping of an electron is called “oxidation.” This oxidative stress is a significant factor in the development of skin cancer because oxidation tear these structures apart.
What consumers are largely unaware of, is that while chemical sunscreens protect your skin from sunburn by absorbing UVB light and converting it to heat, the chemical sunscreen preventing burning is doing so through a UV light conversion of the sunscreen into a free radically loaded product covering all your exposed skin – a large body surface area. Because the skin doesn’t burn, people lay out in the sun for hours and hours literally cooking a chemical cocktail on their skin that’s turning more and more carcinogenic with each hour of exposure. The very sunlight you are trying to capitalize on to bronze your skin is the very catalyst that is turning the sunscreen into a carcinogen. Because one laying out in the sun is not burning, they believe they are safe.
Since the introduction and widespread use of chemical sunscreens, the incidence of skin cancer has increased dramatically. According to research, the rate of skin cancer (cutaneous malignant melanoma) has surged by over 550% in males and 250% in females since the early 1980s in England (BSMS). This trend is mirrored globally, with significant increases noted in various populations.
The proliferation of sunscreen use, combined with lifestyle changes that include more recreational sun exposure, has contributed to these rising rates. Despite the intended protective effect of sunscreens, the paradoxical increase in skin cancer rates suggests that other factors, such as longer sun exposure times due to a false sense of security, might be at play.
Vitamin D and Sunscreens
Vitamin D is one of the most vitally important molecules in the human body. It can help prevent skin cancer primarily through its role in regulating cell growth and promoting cell differentiation. Vitamin D enhances the immune system's ability to detect and destroy cancer cells, reducing the risk of cancer development. Moreover, it has anti-inflammatory properties that can prevent the chronic inflammation associated with cancer progression. Adequate levels of vitamin D can inhibit the growth of cancerous cells in the skin by modulating various signaling pathways and reducing the potential for UV-induced DNA damage.
Vitamin D deficiency, exacerbated by the use of sunscreens that block UVB rays, has been found to contribute to the development of skin cancer. UVB rays are essential for the synthesis of vitamin D in the skin, and their blockage by sunscreens (and sunblock) can lead to insufficient vitamin D levels, potentially increasing the risk of various cancers, including skin cancer.
A 20-year study of 29,518 women found that avoiding the sun increased the risk of death by 60%, with those receiving the most sunlight exposure benefiting significantly, particularly by reducing their risk of dying from heart disease by 130%.
Recent studies indicate that the average American spends significantly less than 2% of their lifetime outdoors. According to the American Time Use Survey, the average person engages in outdoor activities for only a small fraction of their day compared to indoor activities, such as watching TV or working indoor. (Bureau of Labor Statistics). This limited outdoor exposure significantly impacts vitamin D synthesis, as UVB radiation from the sun is essential for the skin to produce vitamin D.
While supplements can help maintain adequate vitamin D levels (provided they are combined with Potassium – K2), natural sunlight exposure is the most effective method for ensuring sufficient vitamin D production. However, balancing sun exposure with skin cancer prevention requires a nuanced approach, as excessive sun exposure without protection also poses significant health risks (Stanford Medicine) (EWG).
The modern lifestyle, characterized by minimal time spent outdoors, combined with the widespread use of sunscreens, has led to a significant decrease in natural vitamin D synthesis, potentially contributing to various health issues, including a higher risk of skin cancer in vitamin D-deficient individuals.
Research indicates that skin cancer patients are often more vitamin D deficient compared to healthy individuals. For instance, a study by Stanford University found that skin cancer patients avoiding sun exposure were three times more likely to be vitamin D deficient than the general population. This deficiency is linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disorders, and certain cancers (Stanford Medicine).
Additionally, vitamin D plays a crucial role in maintaining a strong immune system and supporting bone health. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) highlights that low levels of vitamin D are associated with increased mortality from heart disease and colon cancer, as well as a higher risk of breast cancer (EWG). The National Cancer Institute also notes that while some studies have found no direct correlation between vitamin D supplementation and overall cancer incidence, there is ongoing research to determine if vitamin D deficiency might contribute to cancer disparities among different populations (Comprehensive Cancer Information).
Overall, the data suggests that while sunscreens help prevent sunburn, they may not be as effective in reducing the incidence of skin cancer as initially thought, highlighting the need for comprehensive sun protection strategies.
In addition to causing cancer, chemical sunscreens can also act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with hormone function. Ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate mimic the structure of natural hormones, binding to hormone receptors and disrupting the endocrine system. This disruption can lead to reproductive health issues, developmental problems, and increased cancer risk. The risks associated with chemical sunscreens are particularly concerning for pregnant women. Studies have shown that chemicals like oxybenzone can cross the placental barrier, potentially affecting fetal development and increasing the risk of birth defects.
Sprayed-On Sunscreens
Spray-on sunscreens pose additional risks. When inhaled, these aerosols can cause respiratory issues and may lead to systemic absorption of harmful chemicals. The even distribution of spray-on sunscreens is also questionable, potentially leading to inadequate protection and increased exposure to UV radiation.
Safer, Natural Alternatives & Strategies:
Vitamin D synthesis is crucial for bone health, immune function, and overall well-being, and it can only be produced through sun exposure. To safely enjoy the benefits of sunlight:
Gradual Exposure: Start with short periods of sun exposure in the spring to build melanin, the body’s natural UV protection.
Timing: Aim for sunlight during early morning or late afternoon when UV radiation is less intense.
Protective Clothing: Use wide brim hats, sunglasses, and lightweight clothing to protect the skin without completely blocking UV rays.
Physical Sunblocks: Sunblocks containing ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, sit on top of the skin, and though they do absorb sunlight, they reflect a large percentage of UV rays.
Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide in Sunscreens:
What are Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide?
Titanium dioxide (TiO2) and zinc oxide (ZnO) are naturally occurring minerals widely used in sunscreens for their effective sun-protective properties. These minerals provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB radiation (as opposed to sunscreens that only block UVB rays) without penetrating the skin or causing free radical formation.
Function in Sunscreen:
UV Protection:
Titanium Dioxide: Titanium dioxide acts as a physical blocker by sitting on the skin's surface and reflecting or scattering UV rays away from the skin. It is effective in providing broad-spectrum protection, covering both UVA (long-wave) and UVB (short-wave) rays.
Zinc Oxide: Zinc oxide also functions as a physical sunscreen. It offers superior broad-spectrum protection, particularly effective against UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute to premature photo aging and skin cancer. Zinc oxide is often used in higher concentrations in sunscreens to enhance UVA protection.
Safety and Efficacy:
Both titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are considered safe for use in sunscreens due to their photostability. They do not degrade or lose effectiveness when exposed to sunlight, ensuring consistent protection during sun exposure.
They are less likely to cause skin irritation compared to some chemical sunscreen agents, making them suitable for people with sensitive skin and children.
Formulation:
Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are frequently used together in sunscreen formulations to maximize broad-spectrum protection. The combination of these two minerals ensures comprehensive coverage against both UVA and UVB rays.
These minerals are available in micro-sized and nano-sized particles. Nano-sized particles allow for a more transparent application, reducing the white cast that physical sunscreens can leave on the skin. Despite concerns about nanoparticles penetrating the skin, studies have shown that they typically remain on the surface and do not reach deeper layers.
Other Benefits:
Besides their UV-protective properties, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide contribute to the formulation's stability and can improve the texture and spreadability of the sunscreen.
Zinc oxide also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and protect the skin.
Safety Considerations:
The safety of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide in sunscreens has been extensively studied. Regulatory agencies, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Commission, have approved their use based on evidence demonstrating that they are safe and effective for protecting the skin from UV radiation. However, it is important to use sunscreen/sunblocks as directed and reapply them regularly, especially after swimming, sweating, or towel drying, to maintain effective sun protection.
Safe Sun Products
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting human health and the environment. They conduct research and advocacy in areas such as toxic chemicals, agricultural practices, and corporate accountability. EWG is best known for its consumer guides, such as the Skin Deep® cosmetics database and the annual Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce, which help individuals make informed choices about personal care products, food, and household items. Their work emphasizes transparency and safety, aiming to empower people to live healthier lives in a cleaner environment.
Here is a link to their 2024 Top Rated Recreational Sunscreens that includes 228 “Safe” domestic and international sun protection products, that meet their high-standards of products that represent a minimal threat to human health.
While conventional chemical sunscreens offer convenience and protection against sunburn, their potential risks to skin health, hormonal balance, and overall well-being are significant. Choosing safer alternatives like physical, mineral-based sunscreens/sunblocks and practicing mindful sun exposure can help mitigate these risks while allowing the body to produce essential vitamin D.
Environmental Impact of Sunscreens:
Being the environmentalist I am, I’d remiss if I didn’t add this one last consideration concerning the health of the planet.
Chemical sunscreens not only pose risks to human health but also have devastating effects on marine ecosystems, particularly coral reefs. Ingredients such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, commonly found in many sunscreens, are highly toxic to coral reefs. These chemicals can cause coral bleaching, which occurs when the symbiotic algae that provide corals with energy and their vibrant colors are expelled due to stress. Coral bleaching weakens corals, making them more susceptible to disease and death. Studies have shown that even low concentrations of oxybenzone—62 parts per trillion, equivalent to a drop of water in six Olympic-sized swimming pools—can cause significant damage to coral larvae and impede their development. The World Conservation Congress reports that up to 14,000 tons of sunscreen enter coral reef areas annually, with roughly 82,000 chemicals from personal care products contaminating the oceans.
The environmental impact is alarming: it is estimated that nearly 50% of the world's coral reefs have been lost in the last 30 years, with chemical pollution from sunscreens being a significant contributing factor. The National Ocean Service highlights that about 80% of the coral reefs in the Caribbean have been lost in recent decades, with sunscreen pollution playing a substantial role. Coral reefs are critical to marine biodiversity, supporting approximately 25% of all marine species, and their decline threatens the entire oceanic ecosystem. In response, several regions, including Hawaii, Palau, and parts of Mexico, have implemented bans on sunscreens containing harmful chemicals to protect their fragile marine environments. These measures aim to mitigate the ongoing coral reef crisis and promote the recovery of these vital underwater ecosystems.
1. Coral Reef Loss Due to Chemical Sunscreens:
The concentration of oxybenzone causing damage to coral larvae: Downs, C. A., et al. (2016). "Toxicopathological effects of the sunscreen UV filter, oxybenzone (benzophenone-3), on coral planulae and cultured primary cells and its environmental contamination in Hawaii and the U.S. Virgin Islands." Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, 70(2), 265-288.
Annual sunscreen entering coral reef areas and the number of chemicals: International Coral Reef Initiative (ICRI). "Impacts of Sunscreens on Coral Reefs."
Loss of coral reefs in the last 30 years: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). "What are Coral Reefs?"
Caribbean coral reef loss: National Ocean Service. "The Coral Reef Crisis: Causes and Consequences."
2. Bans on Harmful Sunscreens:
Information on bans in regions like Hawaii, Palau, and parts of Mexico: Hawaii State Legislature. "Act 104, Session Laws of Hawaii 2018."
Palau sunscreen ban: Republic of Palau. "Responsible Tourism Education Act of 2018."
These sources provide a robust foundation for understanding the extensive impact of chemical sunscreens on coral reefs and the resulting environmental consequences.
By understanding the dangers of chemical sunscreens and making informed choices, we can protect our health and restore the aquatic environments once teeming with life, to create a healthier planet.
Hope this helps you in your Journey of Discovery and you move towards optimal health.
I would love to hear from you and have you share your thoughts and/or questions in the comment section below. I look forward to hearing your perspectives.
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I am not a medical doctor or a medical practitioner. I am not legally permitted to claim I treat, cure, or heal disease. I can, however, provide educational content with respect to building/restoring and maintaining optimal health through nutrition, diet, sleep support, and exercise, which can reverse health conditions.Any information provided on this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this web site.This website summarizes information on the role of nutrition, diet, and exercise in health, disease and wellness. Readers should be aware that knowledge of nutrition and medicine is constantly evolving. They are encouraged to frequently check the most current information available on preventive and therapeutic measures. It is your designated clinician’s responsibility, relying on their experience and knowledge of the patient, to determine the best course of action in providing care and your choice to follow it or not. The author, editor, and publisher of information on this website accepts no liability for any injury arising out of the use of material contained herein, and makes no warranty, express or implied, with respect to the contents of this online publication, or from the contents of sites or articles we provide links to. 