On Instagram and TikTok, numerous videos are circulating, featuring influencers claiming that sunscreen does more harm than good. If you search for “anti-sunscreen,” you’ll come across a flood of content supporting this idea.
John Shaff, a physician assistant at Stockton Dermatology, notes that patients frequently ask him about the chemicals in sunscreen and their potential link to cancer. “You really need to weigh the pros and cons of using sunscreen,” he explains. “There are uncertainties, but the benefits far outweigh the risks.”
Shaff acknowledges that the complicated names of some ingredients can raise doubts, but he is not convinced they are enough to cause cancer, given the low amount of chemicals present. He nevertheless recommends mineral-based sunscreens over chemical ones. “We always advise our patients not to go out without protection, whether it’s a spray, a chemical or mineral sunscreen, or protective clothing,” he says. “In the end, something is better than nothing.”
Since many individuals forget to reapply sunscreen, Shaff also advises wearing clothing that blocks off the sun. Here are some more suggestions for successfully shielding yourself from the heat this week: Avoid being outside between the hours of 2 and 4 PM, when it’s the warmest of the day; if you must be outside, wear protective gear and a hat. Drink lots of water to stay hydrated. Applying sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapplying it after 90 minutes or after swimming is also advised.
