Get updates delivered to you daily. Free and customizable.
GMA
Doctors talk sunscreen as influencers push misinformation
By Dr. Parmida JafariYi-Jin Yu,
2024-06-21
A number of social media influencers have begun spreading misinformation and discouraging followers from using sunscreen, but experts say sunscreen is a vital tool in protecting your skin, the body's largest organ, from cancer.
ABC News medical correspondent Dr. Darien Sutton joined "Good Morning America" on Friday to debunk some of the myths gaining traction online, some of which likely stem from past recalls of sunscreen contaminated with benzene , a known carcinogen.
"If you look at a lot of the products that we put on every day, we might see a chemical called oxybenzone. That is very different from benzene, and there is no conclusive evidence that that is associated to an increased risk of cancer," Sutton said.
Oxybenzone, the typical active ingredient in sunscreen, has caused concern among some social media influencers, but the compound can absorb harmful UVB radiation and some UVA radiation.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends people use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, broad-spectrum protection, and water resistance. For children 6 months and older, parents and caregivers should help them apply kids sunscreen that also offers broad spectrum protection, water resistance and SPF of 30 or higher. Kids younger than 6 months should avoid direct sun exposure, wear light protective clothing and stay in shady areas.
"For kids, honestly at the end of the day, it's whatever they're going to keep on and be OK with reapplying. So, whatever method is best," Sutton said.
"If you're looking for good clothing, you want to look for that UPF signature that [indicates] that it protects against UV rays," Sutton added.
Sunscreen is also now available in different formulations, from sprays and lotions to oils, but as a reminder, Sutton noted that sunscreen needs to be applied before any makeup.
"A lot of people will spray sunblock over their makeup. It only works if you rub it in. So unfortunately, that might be convenient, but that's not effective. We've got to spray and rub in," Sutton said.
Get updates delivered to you daily. Free and customizable.
Welcome to NewsBreak, an open platform where diverse perspectives converge. Most of our content comes from established publications and journalists, as well as from our extensive network of tens of thousands of creators who contribute to our platform. We empower individuals to share insightful viewpoints through short posts and comments. It’s essential to note our commitment to transparency: our Terms of Use acknowledge that our services may not always be error-free, and our Community Standards emphasize our discretion in enforcing policies. We strive to foster a dynamic environment for free expression and robust discourse through safety guardrails of human and AI moderation. Join us in shaping the news narrative together.
Comments / 0