We all know that when the sun is out we need to slather on some sunscreen, but recent research suggests that some sunscreen ingredients soak in more than originally thought.
New research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that some of the active ingredients in sunscreen are absorbed into the body.
The research was carried out by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), who tested six of the main ingredients — avobenzone, oxybenzone, octocrylene, homosalate, octisalate and octinoxate — in lotions, sprays and pump varieties of sunscreens. All six active ingredients tested were absorbed into the body at levels which exceeded the safe amount set by the FDA.
This study builds on a prior trial from FDA researchers, which also found that chemicals from sunscreen can seep into the bloodstream. But before you go ditching the SPF altogether, further experts have claimed it’s nothing to worry about as sunscreens in Australia are thoroughly tested.
“The researchers behind this study themselves say that these results should not discourage people from using sunscreen,” Heather Walker from Cancer Council Australia said.
“In Australia, sunscreens are closely regulated by the government’s Therapeutic Goods Administration to make sure they are safe and effective — but sunscreen alone is not enough. When the UV is three or above, everyone needs to slip, slop, slap, seek (shade) and slide (on sunglasses).”
Meanwhile, Rodney Sinclair from the University of Melbourne said more research is needed.
“This does not mean that they are unsafe at these levels, merely that additional testing is required,” he said. “The FDA will now conduct more research to determine the maximum levels of sunscreen ingredients that are safe to use.
“The TGA will monitor this and consumers will be alerted if there are any safety concerns identified by the FDA. Until then, people should continue to protect themselves and their children from the harmful effects of UV radiation by using shade, clothing, hats and where necessary, sunscreen.”
If you’re concerned about possible health effects from wearing sunscreen, Bruce Armstrong from the University of Sydney suggests you choose a mineral-based product.
While traditional chemical sunscreens use a cocktail of chemical sun blockers that sink into your skin to absorb UV rays, mineral sunscreens contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide which sit on top of your skin to physically block the sun’s rays.
IMPORTANT LEGAL INFO This article is of a general nature and FYI only, because it doesn’t take into account your personal health requirements or existing medical conditions. That means it’s not personalised health advice and shouldn’t be relied upon as if it is. Before making a health-related decision, you should work out if the info is appropriate for your situation and get professional medical advice.