SPF Sunscreen Conspiracy Theory
As seen in The Independent
After decades of campaigning in favour of wearing sunscreen, 2025 saw a surprising backlash with the emergence of ‘conspiracy theories’ against the idea of sunscreen with a number of influencers, TikTokers and even celebrities sharing their anti-sunscreen stance.
Health insurance provider Vitality surveyed and found that 18% of Gen Z respondents thought you don’t need sun protection if you tan easily.
GP and skin/mole health expert Dr Ross Perry has been invited to give his expert advice to top UK publications including The Independent and The Times.
Dr Perry explained to The Independent how sunscreen works to protect the skin:
“The sun emits ultraviolet radiation in the form of UVA and UVB rays, both of which can cause damage to the skin.”
While UVA rays are associated with the signs of ageing such as wrinkles and pigmentation, it is the UVB rays which are associated with skin cancer. Dr Perry added:
“UVB rays affect the surface, causing sunburn and direct DNA damage, which increases the risk of skin cancer.”
Background on Sunscreen and SPF Controversies:
- Health Concerns : Over the years, there have been various concerns about the chemicals contained in some sunscreens, such as oxybenzone and avobenzone. Some studies suggested potential hormonal effects or ecological impact, particularly on coral reefs. This has led to calls for certain chemicals to be banned or labeled, particularly in locations like Hawaii and Florida.
- Efficacy of SPF : There are debates about the actual effectiveness of different SPF levels and whether higher SPFs provide significantly better protection. Misconceptions can arise about what SPF ratings mean, and people may underestimate the importance of reapplication.
- Skin Cancer Myths : Some conspiracy theories have centred on the belief that the skin cancer epidemic is being exaggerated to promote sunscreen sales, or that the pharmaceutical industry is suppressing information about natural sun exposure benefits.
- Natural vs. Chemical Sunscreens : Some proponents of natural or mineral-based sunscreens argue that chemical sunscreens are dangerous, which can lead to conspiracy-like narratives regarding the safety of conventional products versus natural alternatives.
Dr Ross Perry told The Independent that the nature of medical advice can lend itself to conspiracy theories, as it can be:
“technical or confusing, so myths and conspiracies offer an easier narrative, often framed as ‘big companies’ trying to hide the truth.”
However, doctors and experts are hugely concerned about any move away from sun protection, which provides protection for the skin when exposed to the sun.
Broad Spectrum Sunscreen
Dr Ross Perry recommends a broad spectrum SPF product, which is designed to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. This can be either:
- Chemical, which work by
“absorbing UV radiation and converting it into harmless heat” - Mineral filters, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which provide a more physical barrier
“sit on the skin’s surface to reflect and scatter rays away”
Dr Perry told The Independent that ingredients like oxybenzone had “shown hormone-like effects” in “very high laboratory doses”. However, he reiterated:
“The amounts used in sunscreens are far lower and there’s no evidence they cause harm in real-world use”
In addition, Dr Ross Perry reminded readers that sunscreens
“Have been rigorously tested and approved by regulatory authorities in the UK, Europe and the US”.
What’s more, the ‘controversial’ ingredients such as benzophenones are quite common in other makeup and skincare products too.
Home Made Sunscreen
Another worrying sunscreen trend for 2025 is DIY sunscreen.
Model Nara Smith has shared her own recipe with followers, which included coconut oil, shea and cocoa butter, jojoba oil, beeswax and zinc oxide.
Dr Ross Perry’s perspective was clear:
“These homemade concoctions are not tested for UV protection, may offer inconsistent coverage, and could result in uneven or insufficient protection, raising the risk of burns and long-term damage.”
Other influencers have suggested using beef dripping as a more natural protection ingredient. However, Dr Ross Perry described the idea as
“Complete nonsense and potentially very dangerous.
“Beef tallow has absolutely no SPF or UV-blocking properties, so applying it to your skin gives you zero protection against sunburn, sun damage or skin cancer”.
He further warned that home remedies were especially worrying
“because they give people a false sense of security in the sun, and that’s when real damage occurs”.
To read this article in full, please visit https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/sunscreen-conspiracies-spf-skin-cancer-b2812532.html.
The Truth About Sunscreen
Sunscreen is widely recommended by dermatologists and health organisations to reduce the risk of skin cancer and prevent sunburn. Key points include:
- Efficacy : Sunscreens with a minimum SPF of 30 are effective in providing protection against UVB rays, which cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer.
- Reapplication : It’s crucial to reapply sunscreen every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating for optimal protection, regardless of the SPF.
- Broad Spectrum : It is advisable to use broad-spectrum sunscreens that protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Ingredient Safety : Regulatory agencies like the FDA and EPA have evaluated the safety of sunscreen ingredients. While some ingredients may have specific concerns, many mainstream sunscreens are considered safe when used as directed.
Dr Ross Perry
Dr Ross Perry is a GP as well as founder of Cosmedics Skin Clinics, leading provider of private mole removal. He also works in the NHS in skin cancer reconstruction surgery. His expert advice has been featured on TV as well as regularly appearing in printed and online press.
Skin Surgery Laser Clinics
Cosmedics’ Skin Surgery Laser Clinic offer private mole removal at a selection of clinics based in London and Bristol. Moles are removed using the latest surgical techniques including laser mole removal; with trained doctors and surgeons.
Our team of qualified and experienced doctors and surgeons also treat other skin blemishes, including sebaceous cysts, skin tags, warts and lipoma using freezing, laser or surgical techniques.
For ultimate peace of mind, Cosmedics Skin Surgery Laser Clinic offer a thorough top to toe mole check carried out by their trained and experienced doctors.
Cosmedics Skin Clinics was founded in 2003 by Dr Ross Perry, a qualified and experienced London GP who has an excellent reputation in skin treatments and has removed thousands of lesions/blemishes in his career.
For more information or to book a consultation, please complete the form on this web page or call 020 7386 0464.
