What you may have heard
Concerns have been circulating that sunscreen products contain harmful chemicals that can increase your risk of skin cancer.
What the science tells us
Using sunscreen does not increase your risk of cancer. In fact, sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can damage the DNA in your cells and lead to skin cancer. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), American Cancer Society (ACS), and American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) continue to recommend the use of sunscreen products with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30.
Epidemiological Evidence
Strong evidence shows that sunscreen use reduces the risk of squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma, two of the most serious forms of skin cancer (Sander et al.). A randomized controlled trial in Australia found that adults who used sunscreen daily had half the risk of developing melanoma and a 73% lower risk of invasive melanoma compared to those who used it only occasionally (Green et al.).
Laboratory Evidence/Supporting Evidence
The FDA sets strict safety standards for sunscreen ingredients and continues to monitor their long-term effects. Several ingredients, including oxybenzone, octinoxate, and avobenzone, are currently undergoing further research to understand absorption and safety (ACS). Thus far, no ingredients used in sunscreen have been proven to cause cancer in humans.
Some sunscreens were recalled due to contamination with benzene, an IARC Group 1 carcinogen. However, benzene is not an active ingredient in sunscreen, it is a byproduct of manufacturing contamination which can occur in various consumer products.
How to reduce your risk of skin cancer
When selecting sunscreen, use products with broad spectrum protection (against UVA and UVB rays) and SPF greater than 30. If you are concerned about chemical absorption, choose mineral sunscreens that contain physical blockers like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to reflect UV rays before they penetrate the skin. In addition, take the following precautions:
- reapply sunscreen every two hours, or after swimming or sweating;
- limit sun exposure during peak hours and seek shade when possible; and
- keep babies under six months out of direct sunlight.
Bottom line
Sunscreen is strongly recommended to prevent skin cancer. While concerns have been raised about the safety of certain chemical ingredients, there is no evidence that sunscreen increases cancer risk. To best protect yourself against skin cancer, use a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and combine it with shade, protective clothing, and careful timing of your sun exposure.
To learn more about sunscreen and cancer risk, watch this short video by the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.