“Sunscreens contain carcinogens,” says one TikTok user. This topic is increasingly controversial as sunscreens are supposed to protect us from skin cancer. In the continuation of her video, she states that chemical sunscreens are carcinogenic and people should only use natural sunscreens, which are better for health. He then gives a promotional code for the purchase of a natural sunscreen.

DW Factcheck: Unproven

This statement cannot be substantiated. “Sunscreens generally do not contain carcinogenic substances,” explains dermatologist Uta Schlossberger in an interview with DW. The same is confirmed by Dr. Hope Mitchell speaking to DW. “There is no evidence that sunscreen causes cancer.” But why do so many social media users identify with this claim?

The main difference between the two types of sunscreen is how they deal with the sun’s rays. Natural sunscreens create a barrier on the skin that reflects UV light so it doesn’t penetrate the skin. On the other hand many people prefer chemical sunscreens because they are almost invisible on the skin. However, their use must be repeated at regular intervals because their protection is quickly eliminated. They contain chemicals but there is no scientific evidence that chemical sunscreens contain carcinogens.

However, some sunscreens contain the synthetic UV filter octocrylene. A 2021 study found that octocrylene can break down into benzophenone over time. Dermatologist Schlossberger states that this filter can harm animals and is “probably carcinogenic” to humans according to the World Health Organization. In any case, dermatologists recommend not to use an old chemical sunscreen from last year if it contains octocrylene, but to buy a new one.

There are many concerns that certain chemicals in sunscreens can cause cancer, but aside from whether sunscreens are carcinogenic or not, potentially harmful ingredients have come under the scientific spotlight in recent years.

“Sunscreen leads to vitamin D deficiency,” say many users on social media, including dermatologists like this one on TikTok.

DW Factcheck: False

The experts concluded that sunscreen does not cause vitamin D deficiency. In fact, the specific scientific article states that: “Clinical studies have never proven that daily use of sunscreen leads to vitamin D deficiency. In fact, the prevailing studies show that those who use sunscreen daily can maintain vitamin D levels’. According to dermatologist Schlossberger, vitamin D deficiency is not possible through the use of sunscreen as it does not block 100% of UVB rays. The percentage that gets through is enough to maintain vitamin D levels. “People of color don’t need sunscreen,” says one

DW Factcheck: False

This claim, which is repeatedly circulating on social media, is not true. People with dark skin can actually stay in the sun without sunscreen a little longer and without suffering the harmful effects of the sun’s rays, Schlossberger points out. But no one has complete sun protection. People with hyperpigmentation are less sensitive to the sun, but according to the American Academy of Dermatology, all people regardless of their skin tone should wear a sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30.

Can a vegan diet protect from the sun?
Several TikTokers claim that you don’t need to wear sunscreen. The compared Influencer explains in several videos that she and her baby do not use sunscreen as the vegan diet protects them.

DW Factcheck: False

Experts strongly disagree with this statement. “I think it’s very dangerous,” Schlossberger told DW. According to the dermatologist, a balanced diet can improve the skin’s repair mechanism but does not create sun protection. Carrots are said to have a positive effect, but they are by no means a substitute for sunscreen. The German Cancer Society also confirms that secondary plant substances contribute a little to sun protection, but are not recommended as sole protection.