5 Major Side Effects Of Using Sunscreen

Most of us lather on sunscreen whenever we expect to have even the slightest bit of sun exposure. And we’re often told to do just that, because the risk of not doing so is contracting skin cancer from exposure to UV rays. However, new studies seem to suggest that sunscreen may be causing more harm than good.

# Disrupts Hormones

Studies show that oxybenzone, triclosan, parabens, and phthalates, have the ability to disrupt the functioning of hormones. These ingredients are commonly found in commercial sunscreens. Studies showed that when adolescents switched to cleaner products without these compounds, the levels of these chemicals in their systems dropped quickly, so it’s worth switching to products free of these chemicals.

# Damages Cells

Oxybenzone, a popular chemical in commercial sunscreens, is used because it absorbs UV light. However, it can also cause hormone disruptions and cause potential cell damage. It seems to inhibit cell growth and interferes in the process of DNA synthesis as well. Potentially this could cause genetic mutations. Studies have linked oxybenzone to endometriosis in older women. Women with higher levels of oxybenzone during pregnancy had lower birth weight daughters.

# Promotes Growth Of Cancer Cells

The damage that these chemicals do can cause the growth of cancer cells. The genetic mutations that they cause can potentially lead to the development of cancer.

# Increases Risk Of Breast Cancer

Studies show that chemicals used in sunscreen called benzophenones can imitate the effects of excess estrogen in the body. This increases the risk of developing diseases like breast cancer.

# Promotes Skin Tumors And Lesions

Retinyl Palmitate or Vitamin A Palmitate is a substance used in several skincare products due to the fact that it is an antioxidant which reduces aging. However, research shows that rats that were treated with vitamin A formulation topically showed a faster spread of skin tumors and lesions.