Influencers Are Spreading Misinformation About Sunscreen

Misinformation about sunscreen has been spreading among influential content creators, putting people at risk. While the one benefit of sunlight is free vitamin D, the risks of too much UV exposure outweigh this benefit, which is why professionals advocate for using sunscreen. However, influencers are trying to claim—falsely—that sunscreen itself causes cancer.

A disturbing trend has emerged where influencers claim sunscreen causes cancer. This misinformation undermines years of scientific understanding and endangers public health. The American Academy of Dermatology reports that skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, affecting one in five Americans. However, certain influencers have amassed thousands of views by spreading false narratives about this essential cream and sun exposure. One tried to claim there was a correlation between those who wear sunscreen and skin cancer, while another said that a bad diet and sunscreen are to blame for skin cancer, not the sun itself.

Krista M. Rubin from the Mass General Cancer Center pointed out that tans are skin injuries and there's no safe way to tan. She also shared that getting sunburned over and over can not only cause immune suppression but also damage to our DNA, which are factors in developing skin cancer.

The misconceptions perpetuated by some influencers overlook clear scientific evidence and medical advice. Skin protection is vital and without it, we expose ourselves to various risks beyond skin cancer, including premature aging, scarring, eye damage, and immune suppression.