4 Harmful Sunscreen Ingredients Doctors Say To Avoid At All Costs This Summer—#4 Can Increase Risk Of Skin Cancer!

Octocrylene

Considered generally safe in moderate amounts, there has been some research that found octocrylene can break down into potentially harmful compounds when exposed to sunlight. Some research suggests it might have irritating effects on the skin, as well. If you’ve tried using chemical sunscreens in the past, only to find they leave your skin red and irritated, this ingredient may be a contributing factor.

Homosalate

Homosalate is worrisome to some because it may have potential hormone-disrupting effects. Homosalate is also a known irritant that may cause your skin to become red, itchy, and dry. Its safety is currently under review.

Octinoxate (Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate)

This is another ingredient that is under fire as a potential hormone disruptor, but its reputation extends to how it may negatively impact the environment. It has been banned in some places like Hawaii, Thailand, and the Virgin Islands for the way it can harm marine life, including coral reef.

Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3)

When you think about sunscreen ingredients that are potentially harmful to your health and environment, oxybenzone may be the one that receives most of the bad press. It is known as a hormone disruptor and has been linked to allergic reactions. Although this needs much more research, there is some proof that it generates free radicals when exposed to sunlight, which could put your skin at greater risk of skin cancer. It is also banned in some places because it poses a risk to marine life, like coral reef.

One final note: dermatologists and doctors are in agreement that it’s important to wear sunscreen each day. If the ingredients in chemical sunscreen leave you worried about the potential risks, switch to a physical sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. But going without sunscreen is not something that experts recommend.