While sunscreen is just one preventative measure you can take against skin cancer, its importance in daily wear cannot be overstated, as it provides essential protection against UV rays that contribute to skin damage over time. 

In recent years sunscreen has become a widely discussed topic on social media, with implications suggesting its use might be harmful. The primary concern stems from a perceived lack of research declaring any product to be 100% safe, leading some to conclude that it must be "unsafe".

We’re here to bust the top five myths we've seen circulating social media surrounding sunscreen use. These misconceptions can mislead individuals into skipping or improperly using sunscreen, which remains crucial for protecting against skin cancer and premature aging.

Myth: "Sunscreen is toxic and causes cancer."

Let’s first start by saying many concerns around toxicity of sunscreens are often based on misunderstandings of scientific data. 

Sunscreen ingredients are strictly regulated. Some studies say some common ingredients used in sunscreens can disrupt hormones or lead to cancer. However, the evidence supporting this is weak, as most studies have been conducted on animals, not humans, at doses often far above what humans would typically be exposed to with regular sunscreen use. These claims often overlook the fact that the ingredients in sunscreen are used at concentrations well within safety limits established by regulatory authorities, such as the TGA. 

Absorption does not equal harm. Some studies have shown that sunscreen ingredients can be absorbed into the bloodstream, however this does not mean they are toxic or cancer causing at the regulated levels found in sunscreens. More evidence is required before this can be determined. It’s important to note that wearing sunscreen is far different to eating it or injecting it.

Conclusion: TGA approved sunscreens like ours, are rigorously tested and regulated for safety, and their benefits in preventing skin cancer far outweigh any minimal risk from ingredients. The primary purpose of sunscreen is to prevent skin cancer and the visible signs of aging – the bottom line is wearing sunscreen will help prevent cancer.

 

Myth: "You don’t get enough Vitamin D when you wear sunscreen."

Some may believe sunscreen blocks all vitamin D production, but this isn't true. Where sunscreen primarily blocks UVB rays - the UV rays responsible for vitamin D production - it doesn’t completely block them. Studies show there is sufficient evidence to confirm UVB will still penetrate the skin to allow for vitamin D synthesis.

In fact, most people will get sufficient sun exposure for vitamin D production during daily activities, even while wearing sunscreen. Often spending 10-15 minutes outside, a few times per week is all you need!

Conclusion: Everyday sunscreen use, when applied in optimal conditions, provides a sufficient amount of UVB light for Vitamin D production in as little as 10-15 minutes outside.

If you suspect that you may have low vitamin D levels, it’s recommended to consult your physician. It is possible to receive enough Vitamin D through diet or by taking supplements, however you should always seek medical advice before taking supplements. 

Myth: "Mineral sunscreens are ‘all natural.”

Mineral, or physical sunscreens are often referred to as “all natural” as they use naturally occurring minerals (like Zinc Oxide or Titanium Oxide) as their active UV filter. However, there are a few reasons they don’t deserve this generalisation.

Zinc Oxide and Titanium Oxide undergo extensive processing in order for them to assume their role in sunscreens. “Purification” of the minerals may involve chemical treatments, solvents or high temperatures. This process is crucial to make the minerals safe, effective, and cosmetically suitable for sunscreen products, transforming them from a raw mineral to a skincare-safe, UV-blocking ingredient.

Many mineral sunscreens also include various synthetic compounds, preservatives and stabilisers to enhance texture, stability and performance. These ingredients can improve spreadability and skin feel but often do not qualify as “natural”.

Regulatory bodies around the world do not monitor the term “all natural”, which can allow for varied interpretations. This lack of oversight means that manufacturers can label products as “all natural” even if they contain some synthetic ingredients, as there is no standardised or legal requirement for what qualifies as “natural.” As a result, companies may use this label freely, leading to a wide range of interpretations.

Conclusion: There is no such thing as an "all natural" sunscreen.

If you prefer using mineral SPF formulations, here are a few things to look for:

• Always look for the term “broad spectrum”, as many mineral sunscreens are only formulated to offer UVB protection.
• Look for “non-nano” formulations; for example our Mineral SPF Range uses micronized zinc technology to achieve its lightweight, non-greasy application.
• If you’ll be swimming or sweating, choose a mineral sunscreen labelled as water resistant.
• If you are choosing mineral because you have sensitive skin, look for a formula that is fragrance free and dermatologically tested like our Mineral Sunscreen SPF50+.

 Myth: "Sunscreen is unnecessary if you have darker skin."

This is a dangerous misconception. While melanin does offer some natural protection, people with darker skin can still develop skin cancer. Those with darker skin can and do develop skin cancers, including melanoma.

While individuals with more melanin have some natural protection against UV rays, it does not eliminate the risk of sun damage or skin cancer. Melanin offers some defense, particularly against UVB rays, but UVA rays—which penetrate more deeply—can still harm deeper layers of the skin. Both types of UV radiation contribute to skin aging, DNA damage, and skin cancer, regardless of skin tone.

It is true that those with darker skin have a significantly higher threshold for UV exposure compared to those with lighter skin. According to Dr. Ade Adamson, more evidence is needed before we can determine a direct link between increased sun exposure and skin cancers in dark skinned individuals.

It is known that darker skin tones can be more prone to early signs of aging, such as hyperpigmentation (how dark skin tends to age) and uneven skin tone when exposed to UV rays. This is because excess melanin is produced as a protective response. - NPHIC

Conclusion: Sunscreen can and will help prevent skin cancer in people with dark skin, despite the risk level being lower compared to those with lighter skin.

Myth: “You can get UV protection by eating certain foods.”

First, let’s address that there is not a single study proving that any food will help you avoid sunburn and skin cancer.

Yes, it is true that consuming antioxidant-rich foods can support your skin’s health and may help reduce the risk of skin cancers over time. Antioxidants from foods, like vitamins C and E, polyphenols, and carotenoids, work by neutralising free radicals—unstable molecules created when your skin is exposed to UV rays—that can damage DNA and lead to skin cancer. By reducing oxidative stress, these nutrients contribute to the skin’s ability to repair and protect itself from some cellular damage.

However, this internal support does not block UV radiation, which is the main cause of sunburn and DNA mutations that increase skin cancer risk.

Wearing sunscreen provides substantiated protection that shields the skin from both UVA and UVB rays (if labelled as broad spectrum), preventing the DNA damage and sunburn that can lead to long-term skin issues and cancers.

Conclusion: While an antioxidant-rich diet may support skin health and provide some degree of protection against UV damage, it should not replace daily sunscreen use. Sunscreen is essential for direct sun protection and the prevention of skin cancer.

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It’s important to approach what you hear on social media with caution. Social platforms often amplify sensationalised content, including “fear-mongering” narratives, which can lead to confusion and misconceptions. This is especially true when it comes to health-related topics like skincare or sun protection. Stick to getting your information from credible, science-backed sources (more specifically, the relevant expert in that area). Expert opinions are grounded in research and clinical experience, which can guide you toward healthier, evidence-based practices like wearing SPF.