Unfounded fears about sunscreen have gone viral on social media, leading dermatologists and cancer organizations to issue warnings in this time of misinformation. Advocates such as Kelly Johnston are alarmingly pushing these thoroughly debunked conspiracy theories that sunscreen products are toxic. These unfounded assertions are dangerous to the public’s health and stoke fear without reason. As skin cancer rates rise, dermatologists and public health officials emphasize the importance of sun protection. By doing so, they help to lower the dangers associated with ultraviolet radiation.
In fact, the World Health Organization lists tanning beds and overexposure to the sun as some of the greatest avoidable public health threats we face. They predict these modifiable factors result in 500,000 new cancer diagnoses per year in the United States, Europe, and Australia combined. This shocking statistic further reinforces the importance of staying alert to unsafe sun safety behavior.
Considered a form of skin cancer, melanoma is like the tip of an iceberg Kelly Johnston, who was diagnosed with melanoma in 2022. Widely known as the deadliest form of skin cancer, Johnston’s recent experience has fueled further advocacy from her, even as it has affected her personally.
“Skin cancer, the risk of melanoma – this is serious stuff that is just not worth sitting in the sun or in a tanning bed for,” – Kelly Johnston
Prof. Timothy Caulfield is research director at the Health Law Institute. He’s on the cutting edge of research, studying how misinformation fuels dangerous public perceptions about sunscreen. His department and ministry’s focus has shifted to influential digital media, citing famous online personalities like American podcaster Joe Rogan as one of the worst purveyors of false information. Rogan’s show highlighted the very real potential of sunscreen to cause harm, especially to brain health. Opponents, including specialists from Melanoma Canada, say those claims don’t hold up scientifically.
Prof. Caulfield wants to focus here on the overwhelming evidence that sunscreen works really well to prevent skin cancer. Rosso explains that since most melanomas are caused by UV radiation exposure, prevention is imperative.
“Why would we not take the opportunity to prevent a potentially deadly cancer?” – Falyn Katz
Health advocate Falyn Katz, CEO of Melanoma Canada reflects fears about the impact of such lies and misinformation found online. On May is Melanoma Awareness Month, Evans implores the general public to be aware that melanoma can affect anyone, at any age, sex, or race. Giving out misleading information about sunscreen is a grave risk to everyone’s health. It weakens the federal government’s ability to promote public health initiatives that aim to lower skin cancer incidence.
Recent studies indicate a troubling trend: Canadians are spending more time in the sun while simultaneously using less sun protection. A study led by McGill University, released in 2021, revealed an unexpected reality. Despite increased sun exposure, people are still applying—or more specifically—not applying or reapplying sunscreen correctly.
Sunscreen should have a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 50 like Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch, Experts recommend. Reapply 20 minutes before swimming. Apply at least every two hours, more often if you’re sweating or in the water. Planning outdoor activities during times when ultraviolet rays are less intense—between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.—can decrease the risk of sun exposure.
