We came across a post on X claiming that mainstream media has finally admitted that sunscreen is toxic, which seems to reference long-standing concerns about the safety of sunscreens.

The post features a video that opens with a news snippet, which discusses potentially harmful chemicals in sunscreens that can be absorbed into the bloodstream, followed by what appears to be a podcast segment featuring Barbara O’Neill, who refuses to use sunscreen and adopts an alternative approach where she manages her time exposed to the sun instead.

Barbara O’Neill is a controversial figure whose claims we have fact-checked previously. One such debunked claim is her assertion that starving cancer cells of sugar will cause them to die.

 

Origins of the videos

The portion of the news clip was taken from a segment that aired on ABC15 (KNXV-TV), a television station based in Phoenix, Arizona, US. The clip, which was uploaded to their YouTube channel on 8 May 2019, discusses research indicating that certain chemicals in sunscreen can enter the bloodstream within just one day of application. The segment highlights specific ingredients—avobenzone, oxybenzone, ecamsule, and octocrylene—which may be absorbed into the skin and bloodstream, potentially leading to health concerns such as reproductive issues although the exact risks were unclear.

The clip featuring Barbara O’Neill is from an episode titled “Healing What Doctors Can’t | EP. 77” of The George Janko Show, which was uploaded on 26 July 2024. The George Janko Show is a podcast and YouTube series hosted by George Janko, a content creator. The show covers a diverse range of topics, including faith, self-improvement, and mental health, along with interviews featuring prominent guests such as Dr. Paul Saladino, Andrew Tate, and celebrities like Russell Brand and Bobby Lee.

In this particular episode with O’Neill, various health-related topics were discussed, including methods for eliminating varicose veins and the implications of mouth breathing. One of the key points raised by O’Neill is her stance against using sunscreen. Instead of relying on sunscreen for protection, she advocates for controlled sunbathing, recommending specific time limits in the sun, suggesting that gradually increasing sun exposure can build tolerance, allowing individuals to be in the sun for longer periods without adverse effects.

O’Neill’s advice stands in contrast to mainstream medical guidance, which emphasises the importance of using broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect against the risks of skin cancer. Experts warn that prolonged unprotected exposure to the sun can pose significant health risks, particularly in the long term.

Are sunscreens unsafe?

Sunscreens are broadly categorised into two types – mineral and chemical – each with a different method of protecting the skin from harmful UV rays. Mineral sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens, contain ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide which act as a physical barrier by sitting on the skin’s surface and reflecting UV rays away from the skin. These are often recommended for people with sensitive skin as they are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions.

On the other hand, chemical sunscreens contain organic compounds such as avobenzone and oxybenzone which absorb UV rays and convert the rays into heat, which is then released from the skin. This process prevents UV rays from penetrating and damaging the deeper layers of the skin.

A 2019 study involving 24 participants, focused on four chemicals – avobenzone,  oxybenzone, ecamsule, and octocrylene – and found that the chemicals were detectable in the participant’s blood after just one day of sunscreen application. However, the study had limitations such as being conducted indoors, where variables like sunlight, heat, and humidity which might affect how these chemicals are absorbed or react on the skin, were not considered. Nonetheless, the study did prompt the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to review its guidelines on the safety and effectiveness of these chemicals in sunscreens.

In 2021, additional concerns emerged over the presence of benzene, a known carcinogen linked to leukaemia and other blood disorders, in certain batches of sunscreen. However, investigations found that the benzene contamination was due to manufacturing issues rather than being a deliberate ingredient in sunscreen formulations, which led to a product recall.

The FDA has continued to investigate sunscreen ingredients, including the four chemicals mentioned in the news clip, to better understand their absorption into the body and potential long-term effects. While it has been confirmed that certain sunscreen ingredients, including oxybenzone and avobenzone, can be absorbed into the bloodstream, the FDA states that these findings do not automatically indicate that these ingredients are unsafe for use in sunscreens. Current data from studies examining the absorption of chemical sunscreen ingredients has not demonstrated any direct harm to human health.

Additionally, Black Dot Research recently did a deeper analysis of octocrylene and whether sunscreen causes cancer. While some studies demonstrated the need for further research into the ingredients used in sunscreens, we found no evidence to support the claim that sunscreen causes cancer.

Has mainstream media admitted that sunscreen is toxic?

The full news segment on sunscreens, as aired by ABC15 Arizona, highlighted that while chemicals like avobenzone, oxybenzone, ecamsule, and octocrylene can be absorbed into the bloodstream, experts stress that sunscreen is still crucial in preventing skin cancer and sunburn. They advised consumers to be mindful of ingredients, recommending mineral-based sunscreens with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide for those concerned about chemical absorption.

As research continues, the guidance on sunscreen safety evolves, but the overwhelming consensus remains that sunscreen plays a vital role in protecting against UV radiation. Experts agree that sunscreens are effective in reducing the risk of skin cancer especially when combined with sun protective clothing and limiting sun exposure.

Given this context, the claim that mainstream media has admitted that sunscreen is toxic is false. While there are concerns about certain sunscreen ingredients, the media has not suggested that all sunscreens are inherently dangerous. To avoid falling into the trap of misinformation, consumers should consult reputable sources, and critically assess the claims made by manufacturers or other social media users, enabling them to make informed choices that prioritises both safety and efficacy in their personal care routines.