Amidst ongoing discussions about sunscreen, questions arise about its potential effects. But what are these claims, and do they hold any truth?

Despite concerns raised, experts strongly advise against avoiding sunscreen. It remains a critical defense against skin cancer, a significant health risk. The Cancer Council reassures that most people obtain sufficient vitamin D through incidental sun exposure, so sunscreen use does not pose a threat to vitamin D levels.

The debate touches on the presence of endocrine-disrupting chemicals in some sunscreens. These substances can mimic, block, or interfere with hormones that regulate essential bodily functions like growth, organ operation, reproduction, and metabolism. However, the scientific consensus emphasizes that the benefits of sunscreen far outweigh the potential risks.

In Australia, the widespread use of sunscreen has played a pivotal role in stabilizing skin cancer rates, showcasing its effectiveness in public health. Therefore, while it’s important to be informed about what we put on our skin, sunscreen remains a key player in cancer prevention strategies.

Can ingredients in sunscreen disrupt our hormones?

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals are chemicals that mimic, block or interfere with the body’s hormones, which control vital functions such as growth, organ function, reproduction and metabolism.

High sunscreen use in Australia has helped to plateau skin cancer rates. Source: AAP / AP

While some animal studies have shown some chemicals contained in sunscreen can have endocrine-disrupting effects, experts say it’s highly unlikely these effects would be seen in humans using these products.

Frederic Leusch, a toxicology expert from Griffith University, echoed this sentiment, saying these experiments are performed with unrealistically high doses.

“A very, very rough back-of-the-envelope calculation … we would basically need half-a-litre of sunscreen a day to come anywhere near those effects that we see in animals. So, we’re talking really high doses,” he said.

Putting recent TGA review into context

Leusch said that while the TGA recommended reducing the permitted levels of oxybenzone and homosalate in sunscreens, the levels currently present are still safe.

The TGA told The Feed an interim decision on whether to impose further restrictions on homosalate and oxybenzone will be published in early 2026 and a final decision will be made after public consultation.

Why are people saying sunscreen causes cancer?

Wong also noted that regions that have reassessed the safety of 4-MBC haven’t “rushed to get it off the shelves because the evidence isn’t really there”.

Wong said the EU’s ban was simply part of a process of “making already very safe products even safer, which is always something that regulatory agencies should be doing”.

Experts say sunscreen is effective in preventing cancer and maintaining skin appearance over time. Source: AAP / Mick Tsikas

Leusch also said while people may be concerned that chemicals in sunscreen cause cancer, there is far greater evidence that failing to use sunscreen causes cancer.

The effectiveness of sunscreen in protecting against skin cancer is well-established in scientific literature.

“It reduces premature ageing, it can help with acne, it can help with dark spots, it really is the most important thing to make your skin look nicer, as well as protecting your skin’s health.”