Sunscreen is hailed as a necessary tool to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun. However, there is growing concern that some sunscreens may actually be doing more harm than good.
There are a variety of reasons why sunscreen might be harming you, from skin irritation to potential endocrine disruption. In this article, we’ll explore the dark side of sunscreen and investigate whether or not it’s truly safe to use.
What is Sunscreen?
Sunscreen is a mixture of chemicals that works by absorbing or reflecting UV rays from the sun. It’s meant to protect your skin from both UVA and UVB radiation, which can cause sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging.
Most sunscreens on the market today contain a combination of ingredients, including:.
- Oxybenzone
- Avobenzone
- Octisalate
- Octocrylene
- Homosalate
- Octinoxate
The Potential Problems with Sunscreen
While sunscreen is meant to protect your skin, there are a variety of potential problems associated with using it.
Skin Irritation
Some people may experience skin irritation from using a particular type of sunscreen. This can manifest as redness, itching, or a rash on the skin.
Oxybenzone
Oxybenzone is a common ingredient in many sunscreens, but it’s been linked to endocrine disruption. Studies have shown that oxybenzone can mimic estrogen in the body, potentially leading to hormone imbalances and infertility.
Nanoparticles
Some sunscreens use nanoparticles to help make the product less visible on the skin. However, these nanoparticles can potentially be harmful if they enter the body.
One study found that titanium dioxide nanoparticles could cause DNA damage in human lung cells.
Related Article
Is your sunscreen damaging your skin?
Absorption into the Body
There is growing concern that some of the chemicals in sunscreen can be absorbed into the body and potentially cause harm.
A study published in the journal JAMA found that after just one application of sunscreen, some of the chemicals could be detected in the bloodstream.
Alternatives to Traditional Sunscreen
If you’re concerned about the potential harm associated with traditional sunscreen, there are a few alternatives that you might consider.
Clothing
Wearing long-sleeved clothes and a hat can provide excellent protection from the sun. There are also many companies that produce clothing designed specifically for sun protection.
Natural Sunscreens
There are a variety of natural sunscreens on the market that use mineral-based ingredients instead of chemical ones. These are less likely to cause irritation or endocrine disruption.
Physical Barriers
Physical barriers like umbrellas or shade structures can provide excellent protection from the sun. These are particularly helpful if you’re going to be spending a lot of time outdoors.
Conclusion
While sunscreen is an important tool for protecting your skin from the harmful effects of the sun, there are some potential downsides associated with using it.
From skin irritation to endocrine disruption, it’s important to weigh the risks and benefits of using sunscreen. Fortunately, there are a variety of alternatives available, from natural sunscreens to physical barriers, that can help keep you safe in the sun without putting your health at risk.
