Overview

• Influencers and celebrities on social platforms have promoted unverified claims that sunscreen contains “toxic” ingredients and that natural sun tolerance makes it unnecessary.
• Cancer Research UK and leading dermatologists confirm that sunscreen use can prevent up to 90% of skin cancer cases by blocking harmful ultraviolet radiation.
• Allegations of sunscreen filters causing cancer or hormonal disruption are based on misinterpreted animal studies under maximal-use conditions and lack support at real-world exposure levels.
• The UK’s Office for Product Safety and Standards plans to reduce the allowable concentration of oxybenzone in full-body sunscreens from 6% to 2.2% in 2026 as part of a broader review of UV filter safety.
• Health specialists stress combining SPF30+ sunscreen—SPF50+ for children in high UV—with protective clothing and shade to address rising melanoma rates.