In today's society, social media influencers hold significant sway over public opinion. What's most concerning is the rise in misleading information about crucial health topics. One such alarming trend is the spread of false claims about sunscreen use. From diet-based protection to dubious homemade remedies, these unproven assertions not only misinform but also pose serious health risks. Let’s talk about a few of the more popular posts and set the record straight.
The Myth of "Natural Protection" Through Diet
In a viral TikTok video, "transformation coach" Jerome Tan discards a commercial cream and boldly claims that eating natural foods allows the body to make its "own sunscreen." With no scientific evidence to back his claim, Tan’s advice is not just misleading but dangerously incorrect.
It's essential to understand that while a healthy diet can improve overall skin health, it cannot replace the need for topical sun protection. Foods rich in antioxidants like fruits and vegetables can provide some protection against oxidative stress from UV exposure, but they do not offer a shield against harmful UV rays. Sunscreen, formulated with scientifically tested ingredients, is necessary to protect the skin from the immediate and long-term effects of UV radiation.
The Beef Tallow "Sunscreen" Fallacy
Another troubling example is an Instagram influencer, bare-chested and clutching a surfboard on a sunny beach, proclaiming his rejection of commercial sunscreens. "Do I worry about skin cancer? I do not," he boldly asserts, promoting "animal-based sunscreen" made from beef tallow.
“I don’t see a problem with using it on the skin as an emollient, but absolutely not as a sunscreen,” Dermatologist Megan Couvillion told AFP. Beef tallow has no properties to block ultraviolet radiation, making it entirely ineffective as sun protection. Such misleading endorsements can lead followers to forego proven sun protection methods, increasing their risk of skin damage and skin cancer.
The Homemade Sunscreen Hack
The allure of homemade, natural products has led to the popularity of DIY sunscreen recipes. A notable example is a viral hack from popular TikToker Nara Smith. Her recipe includes a mix of coconut oil, beeswax, shea butter, cocoa butter, jojoba oil, and zinc oxide powder. While these ingredients might sound appealing for skincare, they do not guarantee effective sun protection.
“Sunscreen formulation is very complicated,” explained dermatologist Dr. Dray in a TikTok reacting to Smith’s video. “You can’t just mix zinc oxide powder into emollients and oils and expect it to protect you properly.” The stability, concentration, and dispersion of active ingredients in sunscreens are meticulously tested to ensure they provide adequate protection. Homemade mixtures lack the rigorous testing and regulation necessary to be deemed safe and effective. Even Health Canada has shared a public advisory warning Canadians about the potential risks of homemade sunscreens.
The Importance of Science-Backed Sunscreen Use
The proliferation of misinformation on social media is concerning, especially when it comes to health and safety. Here are some key points to remember about sunscreen:
- Sunscreen is essential: Sunscreen protects against harmful UV rays that can cause skin cancer, premature aging, and sunburn.
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreens: These protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Look for products with an SPF of 30 or higher.
- Reapply regularly: Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
- Combine with other protective measures: Wear protective clothing, seek shade, and avoid peak sun hours to maximize protection.
Misinformation about sunscreen on social media can have serious health repercussions. It is crucial to rely on science-backed information and consult healthcare professionals for advice on sun protection. As followers, we must critically evaluate the information shared by influencers and prioritize our health and safety over trending but unverified claims. Remember, effective sun protection is not just a trend, it’s vital for long-term skin health.
Credits/Sources:
https://www.premiumbeautynews.com
https://www.verywellhealth.com
