On social networks, several influencers advocate alternatives to sunscreen. “Anti-sunscreen” people go even further and claim to no longer protect themselves from the sun’s rays. A very dangerous practice, doctors remind us.
A trend that is cause for concern as the sun sets in. On social networks, many Internet users are suggesting that they no longer use sunscreen to protect themselves. The reason: “enjoy the benefits of the sun”, according to them. However, it is a dangerous behavior that concerns health professionals.
“Influencers are spreading false and misleading information about sunscreen, claiming that its ingredients are harmful to the skin. These assertions, devoid of any scientific basis, can endanger public health,” detailed the Order of Chemists of Quebec in a press release.
In fact, many influencers claim that sunscreen is a dangerous product for your health. Some explain that the total screen would contain “harmful chemicals” (@primalphysique), “carcinogenic active ingredients” (@paulsaladinomd2) or even, as analyzed by @sproutwiz, that the vitamin D produced by exposure to the sun would be blocked by sunscreen.
While these anti-sunscreen influencers, without any scientific degree, relate all the harms of sun protection, some dermatologists respond to these numerous videos on social networks. Like Dr. Azadeh Shirazi who quips on the subject: “Sunscreen is toxic. “Don’t eat the tube, fill your bathtub, or bathe in it multiple times a day, as it is toxic in both circumstances,” warning against misinformation being spread by making fun of it.
Some influencers offer, without any scientific or medical perspective, alternatives to the total screen. @katiemaike recommends protecting your skin with coconut oil, just like @shannonfairweatherr who only uses the latter product to protect against UV rays. Some even advocate exposure to the sun without any protection.
An increase in skin cancer
However, the National Cancer Institute warns: “More than 80% of skin cancers are linked to excessive exposure to the sun, mainly regular and intense exposure during childhood.”
The Ordre des chimistes du Québec warns: “Sunscreens are developed to protect the skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. The active ingredients, whether mineral or chemical, act by absorbing, reflecting or scattering UV rays. Scientific research demonstrates the effectiveness and safety of these ingredients when used as directed.”
According to the League Against Cancer, the number of skin cancers is increasing. The risk of developing one is now 1 in 100.
