Is sunscreen toxic?

Does sunscreen entering the bloodstream mean it is dangerous?

Sunscreen protects at the skin's surface, but some active ingredients are absorbed through skin into the body. The FDA has requested more data to determine whether that exposure carries safety risks. The practical answer is to keep using sunscreen alongside shade and protective clothing, rather than treating an unanswered research question as a reason to leave skin unprotected.3

Oxybenzone has attracted concern about disrupting hormones, meaning interfering with the body's hormone production. There is no conclusive evidence that oxybenzone harms humans through sunscreen use. Animal experiments involving swallowed oxybenzone are not equivalent to applying sunscreen. Oxybenzone can cause allergic reactions in some people, although this is uncommon.2

Does sunscreen cause cancer?

There is no evidence that sunscreen causes skin cancer. Ultraviolet radiation from sunlight is a known cause of cancer, and sunscreen helps protect against that exposure. Some apparent links between sunscreen use and cancer reflect greater sun exposure among people who use sunscreen, not cancer caused by the product. Sunscreen also helps prevent sunburn and early skin aging, but cannot fully protect skin on its own.245

What does non toxic sunscreen mean?

Treat 'non toxic' as a description, not a substitute for checking protection. Look for broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, SPF 30 or higher, and water resistance. SPF and broad spectrum have defined testing meanings, which is more useful than a bottle giving itself a character reference. A 'sport' label has no FDA definition, so the bottle has not actually qualified for anything. Check the tested water resistance time instead: 40 or 80 minutes.6

Mineral sunscreen uses zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or both as active ingredients and is a sensible option for sensitive skin. Chemical and hybrid sunscreens can also provide effective protection. Mineral sunscreen particles have not been shown to travel through the skin into the bloodstream. 'Reef safe' is a separate environmental claim with no FDA definition; the effects of sunscreen ingredients on reefs remain uncertain.256

How should you use sunscreen?

1. 1Apply sunscreen to dry, uncovered skin 15 minutes before going outdoors. Use it every day you will be outside, including cloudy days.
2. 2Use at least one teaspoon for the face. Most adults need about one ounce to cover exposed body skin. Include ears, neck, feet and exposed scalp.
3. 3Reapply about every two hours outdoors and after toweling off. Follow the label's swimming and sweating directions, including its 40 or 80 minute water resistance limit.
4. 4Use shade, clothing, a hat and sunglasses as well. Do not spray sunscreen directly onto the face or inhale the spray.

When does sunscreen need extra caution?

Skin and eye irritation or allergic reactions are different from poisoning. Stop using a sunscreen that causes a rash. Get urgent medical help for wheezing or difficulty breathing. If sunscreen enters the eyes, flush them with cool water for 15 minutes. Keep babies under six months out of direct sun and ask a doctor before applying sunscreen. Medicines including doxycycline and retinoids can increase sun sensitivity, making sun protection especially relevant.134

Swallowing sunscreen is a different exposure from wearing it. It usually causes mild stomach upset or vomiting, but large amounts can cause serious problems. In the United States, call Poison Help at 1 800 222 1222 promptly after swallowing sunscreen; elsewhere, contact your local poison service. Do not induce vomiting unless a poison specialist or clinician tells you to.1