Sun Tan Lotion: A Lucrative Industry Under Scrutiny

The sunscreen industry is a multi-billion-dollar enterprise.

One that is built on skin protection and cancer prevention promises.

Yet, despite noble intentions behind products, many manufacturers disregard the facts

Mounting evidence suggests some sunscreen ingredients pose significant health risks.

No matter where you stand on the sunscreen debate, one fact remains indisputable.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the leading cause of skin cancer.

With this in mind, the good folks at HQ NC have done some digging.

So that you can begin to make informed decisions about the sunscreen you use.

Chemical vs. Physical Sun Tan lotion

Suntan lotion falls into two broad categories: chemical and physical.

Each has a unique mechanism for skin protection, but they have distinct advantages and drawbacks.

Physical Sun Tan Lotion

Physical or mineral lotion creates a barrier on your skin’s surface that reflects UV rays.

They typically contain inert, non-chemical active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These particles act like a hat or veil, shielding your skin from harmful rays.

Upon application, they often appear opaque or slightly white but can become transparent once rubbed in.

While effective, physical sun tan lotions are not without controversy regarding the environment, mineral-based sunblocks can devastate marine ecosystems, which you can read here.

Titanium dioxide, for example, reacts with water to produce hydrogen peroxide, a substance toxic to coral reefs and other marine life.

This ecological impact extends up the food chain, threatening ocean biodiversity.

Chemical Sunscreens

Chemical sun tan lotion, on the other hand, absorbs UV rays and converts them into heat, which is then released from the skin.

Common ingredients include oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, and avobenzone.

However, these ingredients have come under scrutiny for their potential health risks; let’s unpack one of these oxybenzones.

Oxybenzone

This is one of the most powerful free radical generators known. It converts UV light into heat and causes oxidative stress in the skin.

Research suggests it may disrupt hormones, damage cells, and distort genetic information (Downs et al., 2016).

Studies also indicate that oxybenzone can bind UV radiation to DNA, triggering harmful biochemical reactions that may increase the risk of skin cancer (Environmental Working Group [EWG], 2021).

Adding to the concerns, oxybenzone’s impact extends beyond human health; this chemical has been shown to contribute to coral bleaching, further highlighting the need for more environmentally responsible formulations (Downs et al., 2016).

Two Further Studies

The FDA published these in 2019 and 2020, revealing that certain chemicals are absorbed into the bloodstream after just one use (Matta, 2019; Matta, 2020).

Alarmingly, traces of these chemicals were detected in the skin and blood weeks after the application ended. Despite these findings, the FDA has stated that more research is needed to determine whether these chemicals cause harm. (Matta et al., 2020).

In the same 2019 proposal, the FDA flagged PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid), aminobenzoic acid, and trolamine salicylate as unsafe for use (FDA, 2019).

The proposal deemed only two active ingredients—zinc oxide and titanium dioxide—safe and effective for sun tan lotion. This has left consumers questioning the safety of many widely available products.

Paradox of Sunscreen and Skin Cancer

Here’s the troubling paradox: despite the widespread use of sun tan lotion, skin cancer rates continue to rise globally.

This raises an uncomfortable question: Could the products designed to protect us from UV damage be doing more harm than good?

One theory is that sun tan lotion provides false security, encouraging prolonged sun exposure. By suppressing the skin’s natural warning signs, such as redness or discomfort, they may inadvertently cause more significant UV damage.

This psychological effect underscores the importance of using sunscreen responsibly and in conjunction with other sun-safe practices.

Adopting a Safer Sun Care Routine

While the risks associated with certain sun tan lotion ingredients are concerning, it’s important not to abandon sun protection altogether. Instead, consider the following steps to minimise harm:

Choose Mineral-Based Suntan lotion: Opt for formulations containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are generally considered safe and effective.

Read Labels Carefully. Familiarise yourself with ingredient lists and avoid products containing controversial chemicals such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, and retinyl palmitate.

Adopt Complementary Sun Protection Measures: Wear protective clothing, seek shade during peak sun hours, and use wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses to shield your skin.

Be a Label Detective: Conduct research and prioritise transparency when selecting products. Look for certifications that ensure eco-friendliness and safety.

Respect the Sun’s Power: Practice moderate sun exposure and never rely solely on suntan lotion for protection.

To conclude. The naked truth

The sunscreen industry, though lucrative, is fraught with complexities. While it is critical in preventing UV-induced skin damage, they are not without risks.

The downsides of certain ingredients cannot be ignored, from hormonal disruptions and oxidative stress to environmental harm.

At The Naked Chemist, we advocate for a balanced approach to sun care.

By combining safer sunscreen options with sensible sun habits, you can protect your skin without compromising your health or the planet.

Remember, the ultimate goal isn’t just to shield yourself from UV rays but to foster a more profound respect for the sun’s power and its impact on life.

So, shop wisely, wear your sun protection thoughtfully, and always be mindful of the ingredients you’re putting on your skin.

With caution and awareness, you can enjoy the sun responsibly and sustainably.

References — Sunscreen Active Ingredients & Safety

1. 1. Matta, M. K., Zusterzeel, R., Pilli, N. R., Patel, V., Volpe, D. A., Florian, J., … Strauss, D. G. (2019).
      “Effect of Sunscreen Application Under Maximal Use Conditions on Plasma Concentration of Sunscreen Active Ingredients: A Randomised Clinical Trial.”
      JAMA, 321(21), 2082–2091.
      jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2733085
      · PubMed: 31058986
   2. Matta, M. K., Florian, J., Zusterzeel, R., Pilli, N. R., Patel, V., Volpe, D. A., … Strauss, D. G. (2020).
      “Effect of Sunscreen Application on Plasma Concentration of Sunscreen Active Ingredients With Chronic Use: A Randomised Clinical Trial.”
      JAMA, 323(3), 256–267.
      jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2759002
      · PubMed: 31961417
   3. Environmental Working Group (EWG).
      “What Scientists Say About Vitamin A in Sunscreen.”
      EWG Research.
      ewg.org/research/what-scientists-say-about-vitamin-sunscreen
      Note: linked to EWG’s current live research page on vitamin A in sunscreen. EWG’s annual “Guide to Sunscreens” is republished each year — the latest edition is at ewg.org/sunscreen.
   4. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2019).
      “Sunscreen Drug Products for Over-the-Counter Human Use” (Proposed Rule, 84 FR 6204; Docket No. FDA–1978–N–0018).
      Federal Register, February 26, 2019.
      federalregister.gov/documents/2019/02/26/2019-03019
   5. Downs, C. A., Kramarsky-Winter, E., Segal, R., Fauth, J. E., Knutson, S., Bronstein, O., … Loya, Y. (2016).
      “Toxicopathological Effects of the Sunscreen UV Filter, Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3), on Coral Planulae and Cultured Primary Cells and Its Environmental Contamination in Hawaii and the U.S. Virgin Islands.”
      Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, 70(2), 265–288.
      link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00244-015-0227-7
      · doi:10.1007/s00244-015-0227-7
   6. National Toxicology Program (NTP). (2012).
      “Photocarcinogenesis Study of Retinoic Acid and Retinyl Palmitate in SKH-1 Mice (Simulated Solar Light and Topical Application Study).”
      NTP Technical Report Series No. 568.
      ntp.niehs.nih.gov/publications/reports/tr/500s/tr568
      · Full PDF: tr568_508.pdf · PubMed: 23001333