What you need to know about sun protection from our dermatologist, Dr. Laine Koch: Sun (UV) exposure is one of the most controllable risk factors when it comes to preventing skin cancer and premature skin aging. Making sun safety part of your daily routine is one of the most effective ways to protect your skin from the harmful, carcinogenic effects of ultraviolet radiation.
Daily Sun-Safety Habits
- Wear UV-protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses
- Seek shade whenever possible
- Apply sunscreen if you plan to be outside for more than 10–15 minutes
Does Sunscreen Cause Cancer?
There has been some concern in recent years about sunscreen safety. A few years ago, some products were voluntarily recalled after finding low levels of benzene, a potential carcinogen. It is important to note that benzene is not an intended ingredient in sunscreen; rather, its presence in some products was due to unintentional contamination during the manufacturing process. As a precautionary measure to ensure consumer safety, the affected batches were quickly recalled. The FDA has also studied whether certain chemical sunscreen ingredients (such as oxybenzone) are absorbed into the bloodstream. While absorption does occur, there is currently no evidence that this leads to cancer or other harm in humans.
Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreens
If you have concerns about ingredient absorption, many dermatologists, including myself, recommend physical (mineral) sunscreens, which contain Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide. These ingredients sit on top of the skin and are not absorbed into the bloodstream.
What About Hormone Disruption?
Some chemical sunscreen ingredients—like oxybenzone, avobenzone, homosalate, and octinoxate—have raised questions about potential hormonal effects. Most existing evidence comes from animal or lab studies using very high doses, not typical human use. If you prefer a cautious approach, choosing mineral sunscreens with fewer chemical ingredients is a simple and effective option.
Are Mineral Sunscreens Reef-Safe?
Yes. The sunscreens recommended below are considered reef-safe and marine-friendly, making them a better choice for both your skin and the environment.
Dr. Koch’s Recommended Sunscreens
For the Face
- Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50
- SkinBetter Science Tone Smart Lotion SPF 75
Tinted formulas that can double as makeup—great for melasma-prone skin - ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica SPF 50+
Ideal for those prone to actinic keratoses (“precancers”) - CeraVe Sunscreen Stick or SkinBetter Science Sheer Stick
Excellent for athletes or outdoor use—won’t sting eyes when sweating
For the Body
- EltaMD UV Physical SPF 41
- EltaMD UV AOX Mist Broad Spectrum SPF 40
- EltaMD UV Pure Broad Spectrum SPF 47
- EltaMD Sheer Face & Body Mineral Sunscreen
- Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen
Final Takeaway
Consistent sun protection is far more important than avoiding sunscreen altogether. Whether you choose mineral or chemical formulas, the best sunscreen is the one you’ll use regularly and correctly.