HONOLULU (KHON2) — It’s National Sunscreen Day, and it’s the unofficial start to summer. So, KHON2.com decided to give you a few pointers on how to select sunscreens for your summer fun activities and holidays.
National Sunscreen Day, observed annually on May 27, raises awareness about the importance of sunscreen in protecting against skin cancer and sunburns.
Regardless of your skin tone, everyone is advised to wear sunscreen while outdoors. Whether you are pale or dark or a visitor or a resident, your skin needs protection from the sun.
But there is a lot of information out there and too many warnings. This is why we created this handy guide. Now, you can confidently purchase the right types of sunscreen and enjoy your adventures outside.
Environmentally harmful sunscreens
Certain sunscreens contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are harmful to coral reefs and marine life. But with little information specifically on what sunscreens are harmful, KHON2.com decided to provide a list of the ingredients that you need to avoid.
Oxybenzone: A common sunscreen ingredient that is found in 97% of Americans and has harmful side effects, including being an eye irritant, skin allergen and disrupting hormone production. It’s linked to thyroid problems, potential skin cancer and reproductive issues. Environmentally, oxybenzone causes coral bleaching and death, damaging DNA in young coral and affecting their development. Due to these harmful effects, Hawaiʻi has banned sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate. All Good sunscreens are entirely free of oxybenzone to avoid these issues.
Octinoxate: Also known as Octyl methoxycinnamate (OMC), it often accompanies oxybenzone as a UV-filtering chemical. It is rapidly absorbed through the skin and mimics the hormone estrogen, potentially causing thyroid issues and cardiovascular disease. Like oxybenzone, it is also linked to endocrine disruption. Because of these risks, octinoxate is considered harmful, similar to oxybenzone.
Octocrylene: It’s another chemical absorbed through the skin that can cause harmful cellular reactions that may lead to cardiovascular disease. Additionally, it is toxic to marine life, accumulating in coral tissue as fatty acids and disrupting coral metabolism and functioning. If it’s detrimental to coral health, it is likely not beneficial for humans either.
PABA (Aminobenzoic Acid): Also known as Para-Aminobenzoic Acid (PABA), it’s an organic compound found naturally in grains, eggs, milk and meat. While non-toxic to humans in small amounts, it has been listed by the Haereticus Environmental Laboratory (HEL) as harmful to coral reefs. When worn in the ocean, PABA contributes to coral damage, making it an undesirable ingredient in sunscreens for those concerned about reef health.
Enzacamene: It’s another endocrine disruptor that mimics estrogen and disrupts thyroid and reproductive functions. It’s non-biodegradable and harmful to coral reefs, causing bleaching and death. Common in sunscreens and cosmetics, it’s important to read labels to avoid this ingredient.
Octisalate: It’s a colorless liquid used in sunscreens for UV absorption and water resistance. It enhances skin permeability, facilitating the entry of other UV absorbers. Studies indicate that octisalate can negatively impact the immune system and trigger allergies. Recognized as an environmental toxin in Japan and Canada, it’s a concerning ingredient in chemical sunscreens.
Homosalate:Homosalate is a UV absorber commonly used in SPF cosmetic products. It helps other sunscreen ingredients penetrate the skin but has been shown to affect hormone function. Specifically, homosalate mimics estrogen, potentially leading to issues like contaminated breast milk and an increased risk of breast cancer. This pattern of endocrine disruption is a recurring concern with many chemical sunscreen ingredients.
Avobenzone: Often used as a UV-ray blocker instead of oxybenzone, it can penetrate the skin and allow other chemicals to enter. It can cause skin allergies when it breaks down in the sun and is toxic to the liver and kidneys if exposed to chlorine, commonly found in pools and tap water. This makes it a concerning ingredient for those with sensitive skin.
Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide: Mineral sunscreens contain titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, usually as nanoparticles. The FDA proposed classifying these minerals as Generally Recognized as Safe and Effective (GRASE) in 2021. Studies show minimal skin penetration by these particles. However, inhalation of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide in spray or powder forms may pose cancer risks, prompting concerns. Mineral sunscreens generally rate better than chemical ones. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) advocates for stricter guidelines on zinc and titanium use in sunscreens to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Legal and illegal sunscreens in Hawaiʻi
In Hawaiʻi, sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate are banned due to their environmental impact. Legal sunscreens must use mineral-based ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are safer for marine ecosystems.
While there is no definitive list of illegal sunscreens. There is a list of legal sunscreens.
For a look at what non-environmentally friendly sunscreen does to Hawaii’s marine life, click here.
Where to find eco-friendly sunscreens
Eco-friendly sunscreens can be found at health stores, pharmacies, and online retailers specializing in natural and organic products. Look for labels indicating “reef-safe” or “biodegradable”.
Sunscreens produced in Hawaiʻi are marked with an * asterisk.
*Kokua Sun Care Hawaiian SPF 50 Natural Zinc Sunscreen.
*Mama Kuleana Waterproof SPF 30 Reef-safe Sunscreen.
*Little Hands Hawaiʻi SPF 35+ All-natural and Organic Sunscreen.
Manda Organic SPF 50 Sun Paste.
*Raw Love SPF 35 All-natural Mineral Sunscreen.
Thinksport SPF 50 Sunscreen.
All Good SPF 30 Sport Sunscreen Lotion.
Babo Botanicals SPF 30 Clear Zinc Lotion.
Suntegrity Natural Mineral Sunscreen.
Badger SPF 30 Unscented Sunscreen Cream.
Raw Elements SPF 30 Certified Natural Sunscreen.
Stream2Sea SPF 30 Mineral Sunblock.
Loving Naturals Clear Body SPF 30+ All-natural Sunscreen.
Banana Boat Simply Protect SPF 50+ Sunscreen (spray, not lotion).
Olita Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30.
You can click here for more information.
Sun exposure and cancer
Connection between sun exposure and cancer
Sun exposure, particularly ultraviolet (UV) radiation, is a significant risk factor for skin cancer. UV radiation damages the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations that can cause skin cancers such as melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. The risk increases with the intensity and duration of exposure, as well as factors like skin type and family history of skin cancer.
UV radiation Ttypes:
UVA: Penetrates deep into the skin, contributing to aging and long-term skin damage.
UVB: Causes direct DNA damage, leading to sunburn and playing a key role in skin cancer development.
DNA damage: UV radiation induces thymine dimers in DNA, leading to mutations during cell replication. If the body’s repair mechanisms fail, these mutations can accumulate and lead to cancerous growths.
Risk factors:
Fair skin: Higher susceptibility due to less melanin, which provides some protection against UV radiation.
History of sunburns: Severe sunburns, especially during childhood, significantly increase the risk of skin cancer.
Genetic predisposition: Family history of skin cancer can elevate risk.
Connection between using sunscreen and avoiding cancer
Sunscreen acts as a protective barrier against harmful UV radiation, reducing the risk of skin cancer. By blocking or absorbing UV rays, sunscreen helps prevent DNA damage in skin cells.
Types of sunscreens:
Physical (mineral) sunscreens: Contain active mineral ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that sit on the skin’s surface and deflect UV rays.
Chemical sunscreens: Contain organic compounds that absorb UV radiation, converting it into heat, and then releasing it from the skin.
Broad-spectrum protection: Effective sunscreens offer broad-spectrum protection, shielding against both UVA and UVB rays. Regular use of broad-spectrum sunscreen can significantly lower the risk of developing skin cancer.
Application guidelines:
SPF Rating: Sun Protection Factor (SPF) measures how well sunscreen protects against UVB rays. An SPF of 30 or higher is recommended for effective protection.
Reapplication: Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, and more frequently if swimming or sweating.
Evidence of efficacy: Studies have shown that regular use of sunscreen reduces the incidence of melanoma and other skin cancers. For example, a study in Australia found that daily sunscreen use cut the risk of melanoma by 50% compared to occasional use.
Comprehensive sun protection:
Additional Measures: Alongside sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, and avoiding peak sun hours are crucial steps in comprehensive sun protection.
By understanding the mechanisms through which UV radiation induces skin cancer and how sunscreen can mitigate these risks, individuals can make informed decisions to protect their skin health and reduce the likelihood of developing skin cancer.