Debunking TikTok’s Anti-SPF Claims: Is Sunscreen Really Bad for You?

The misinformation epidemic on TikTok is more rampant than ever.

Wellness influencers are back at it, now challenging the necessity of sunscreen. 

After advocating for monthly hair washing, dry scooping pre-workout, and drinking alkaline water, they’ve sparked a new debate: Should you ditch your sunscreen?

The SPF Debate

In an era where we’re highly aware of the dangers of UV rays and have moved past the era of tanning beds, this question seems odd. Yet, TikTok has become a breeding ground for anti-SPF misinformation, with some influencers claiming that sunscreen isn’t just unnecessary but potentially harmful and cancer-causing.

However, no evidence supports these claims! 

Sun damage can lead to skin cancer, but the FDA has not found that sunscreens cause cancer. 

If you’re still thinking, But the chemicals!…well, there’s nothing wrong with considering non-chemical SPF options, either, if only for the environment. But since viral misinformation tends to lack nuance, it can be tough to figure out what’s what. Multiple dermatologists and plastic surgeons have debunked this harmful trend.

Myths Surrounding SPF

So, why do some believe sunscreen is harmful? The FDA has noted that some chemical sunscreen ingredients can linger in the bloodstream after use. This includes ingredients like oxybenzone and avobenzone, which can remain in the blood plasma for days or even weeks. But the presence of these ingredients in the bloodstream doesn't equate to them being harmful. More research is needed to fully understand their effects, but current studies have not shown a definitive link to health issues.

Much of the scepticism stems from misinformation, often propagated by non-experts on social media. For instance, Dr. Keith Kimberlin, a chiropractor, claims that most sunscreens are toxic and more dangerous than sunburns. However, only board-certified dermatologists have the advanced medical training to accurately diagnose and treat skin conditions.

Is Sunscreen Bad for You?

In short, no. Claims against sunscreen lack substantial scientific backing. Sachin M. Shridhar, MD, FACS, a board-certified plastic surgeon in NYC, states, "While there is no actual proof that sunscreen 'is bad for you' or causes cancer, there is substantial evidence affirming the risks of not using it."

Excessive sun exposure is significantly more dangerous. High rates of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma are directly linked to sun exposure. These skin cancers can be life-threatening if untreated or caught late. 

Does Sunscreen Prevent Vitamin D Absorption?

Concerns about vitamin D deficiency are another reason some avoid sunscreen. However, wearing sunscreen doesn't block vitamin D absorption. Studies show that it doesn’t significantly affect vitamin D levels. 

You can still get enough vitamin D with sunblock on, as a small percentage of UVB rays penetrate the sunscreen.

Sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays and preventing skin cancer. Despite the rise of anti-SPF rhetoric on social media, the benefits of using sunscreen far outweigh any unproven risks. 

Enjoy the sunshine safely with proper sun protection and make informed choices based on science, not social media trends.