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Sunscreen: this summer’s most controversial social media topic

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A woman with curly red hair applies sunscreen to her face while at the beach.

Social media influencers are known for giving skin care advice, but the latest trend taking aim at sunscreen has dermatologists on high alert.

A quick search on TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube will lead you to an alarming number of influencers claiming that sunscreen is toxic and causes cancer. Dermatology experts say these viral messages are misleading audiences and the results could be dangerous. 

“Many social media influencers who may not be medically trained communicate potentially false information about sunscreen use,” said Clinton Enos, M.D., Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University. “Evidence supports the use of sunscreen to protect you from the harmful effects of the sun that could contribute to your risk for developing skin cancer.”

Recommendations are to use SPF 30 sunscreen or higher to help minimize short-term and long-term damage to the skin that can contribute to your risk of developing skin cancer. Sunscreen may also help to prevent premature aging related to photo-damage.

“Utilize sun protection to help reduce the risk of skin cancer,” said Dr. Enos. “This includes the use of sunscreen, protective clothing, or seeking shade. Ask your dermatologist if you have any questions about the safety of sunscreen or any of the claims you hear on social media.”

Is sunscreen safe to use?

Sunscreens, whether they use physical or chemical barriers, have been tested as safe and effective. Many sunscreens today combine physical and chemical ingredients to protect skin against both UVA and UVB rays. 

Will I have an allergic reaction?

Allergic reactions are very rare. The National Institutes of Health states that allergic reactions occur in less than 1% of the population. Ask your dermatologist how you can safely test to see if you are allergic.

Doesn’t sunscreen block vitamin D?

Using sun protection may decrease your skin’s production of vitamin D but is not expected to cause vitamin D deficiency. If you are concerned that you are not getting enough vitamin D, you should discuss your options for getting vitamin D with your doctor.

How much should I use with each application?

Many expect their one purchase of sunscreen will be enough to last all summer, but just one four-ounce tube of sunscreen has only approximately three full-body applications. Apply enough sunscreen to cover all skin not covered by clothing, at least one ounce or two tablespoons full for each application.

Contact our office at 757-446-5629 to make an appointment with a provider at EVMS Medical Group Dermatology, part of Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University.