Mitos del sol y filtros

Trending Sun Protection Myths: Addressing Misinformation in Clinical Practice

12–15 minutes

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For most, sunscreen is considered the foundation of basic skin care. Yet years of hard-won progress in embracing sun safety among the public has taken a hit from recent misinformation spreading online about sun protection practices.

A 2025 study found an abundance of TikTok videos with the hashtag #nosunscreen that support many of the growing myths about sun protection, including the belief that sunscreen use is not important or may even be harmful to one's health.¹ This misinformation is quickly gaining traction, as Nikookam and colleagues reported that the #nosunscreen hashtag had surpassed 11.7 million views on TikTok while the #AntiSunscreen hashtag had garnered more than 5.3 million views at the time of their writing. These authors also reported a surge in Google searches for anti-sunscreen content.²

Dermatologist Perspectives on Sun Protection Myths

The myriad of myths regarding this topic have increasingly made their way into the dermatologist's office, with physicians reporting a growing number of patients espousing these inaccurate views.

"We are encountering an alarming rise in myths regarding sunscreen and sun protection," said Annie Grossberg, MD, associate professor of dermatology and director of pediatric dermatology at Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore, Maryland.^1-3 "Some of these include misinformation about the dangers of sunscreen and the necessity of wearing sunscreen."

[T]he benefits of sunscreen in preventing melanoma and other skin cancers far outweigh theoretical risks in studies that have shown no harm of sunscreens in humans. 

Additional myths in this realm include the notions that one can develop a solar callus for sun protection or simply use coconut oil, beef tallow, or other oils in place of sunscreens approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA).

"The rise in misinformation is likely multifactorial, but the viral nature of social media is a major contributor," Dr Grossberg said. "Influencers with broad audiences can post anecdotes or opinions and present this as factual and in a sensationalist manner, despite a lack of supporting evidence."

"Algorithm-driven platforms reward sensational natural health narratives, and influencer anecdotes travel faster than peer-reviewed data, while distrust of chemical ingredients dovetail with broader wellness and clean-beauty marketing," added dermatologist Swati Kannan, MD, associate professor of dermatology and Mohs surgeon at the University of California San Diego.

Veena Vanchinathan MD, a dermatologist and member of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), says that she most often hears these misconceptions from younger patients and those active on social media platforms. "Patients may ask if natural oils are better, express concerns about chemical sunscreens, or mention tanning as a way to build protection from UV damage," she shared. "These conversations often present an opportunity for me to thoughtfully partner with my patients and share impactful education."

Dr Kannan has also experienced an increase in similar questions in her practice. "Patients increasingly ask if they can swap to coconut oil, voice fears that sunscreen causes cancer, or request guidance on beef tallow recipes circulating on TikTok," she said. "My response to all of this is that we have so much evidence to support the use of sunscreen to prevent skin cancers and melanomas, and we do not have any evidence that sunscreen is carcinogenic or that natural treatments provide enough sun protection."⁴

Dr Grossberg recalls many instances of patients and parents asking about the safety of sunscreens and seeking more natural alternatives. Some parents are genuinely afraid to use sunscreens on their children due the misinformation they have heard about on social media, she explained. 

"These are well-meaning parents who want to do the best and safest things for their children and themselves, but these scenarios reflect how deeply some of this social media-driven misinformation has permeated everyday decision making," Dr Grossberg continued. "The challenge lies in redirecting these concerns towards evidence-based solutions."

6 Common Myths and Truths About Sun Protection

Below are the most common myths that dermatologists may encounter in clinical practice, as well as the accurate, evidence-based take on each point.

"Sunscreen is only necessary at the beach, on vacation, or if it's sunny outside." 

"Sun protection is essential every day, not just on vacations, at the beach, or on the hottest days of the summer," Dr Grossberg advised.⁵ "UV exposure and damage from the sun is cumulative, begins in childhood, and happens during everyday activities."

Additionally, "Up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds, and UVA penetrates glass, so daily use is recommended regardless of the weather," Dr Vanchinathan noted.⁵

"Along with sun protective clothing, sunscreen remains one of the most effective tools we have for prevention of skin cancer and skin aging," Dr Grossberg said.

Both the AAD and the American Cancer Society recommend using a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with a minimum of SPF of 30.^6,7

"People with darker skin tones don't need sunscreen."  

"While skin cancer risk may be lower in patients with skin of color, these individuals are still at risk for photoaging, pigmentary disorders, and UV-induced skin cancers," Dr Vanchinathan explained.⁸ "Daily photoprotection helps prevent pigmentary disorders such as melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, in addition to skin cancers."

"When we eventually diagnose melanomas in darker-skinned patients, it tends to be later-stage and more aggressive disease," Dr Kannan noted.⁸ "Although melanin provides some natural SPF, it is insufficient against cumulative UV damage, so consistent sunscreen use is still recommended for all skin types."

"Sunscreen is toxic and causes cancer." 

"Approved UV filters have never shown carcinogenicity in humans, whereas UV radiation is a proven human carcinogen," Dr Kannan emphasized.⁹

"Decades of safety data and FDA evaluation support the use of both mineral and chemical sunscreens as safe and effective when used as directed," Dr Vanchinathan added. Mineral (or inorganic) sunscreens contain filters such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, while chemical (or organic) sunscreens contain filters such as avobenzone and octocrylene. Unlike inorganic sunscreens, organic sunscreens are designed to absorb into the skin completely.¹⁰

Patients may express concerns about the systemic absorption of chemical filters and potential associated risks, including endocrine-disrupting effects observed in some studies.^4,11,12 Although findings on this topic have been mixed overall, experts have noted the need for further study and industry testing of these potential risks linked to chemical sunscreens.^4,12,13 

"Both chemical and mineral options are safe, and patient preferences can guide their choice of which kind they want to use," Dr Kannan said. "Mineral filters remain an alternative for patient who prefer a non-absorbing option."

Dr Grossberg reiterated that the available evidence overwhelmingly shows that UV radiation from the sun is a proven carcinogen. "UV radiation is classified by the World Health Organization as a Group 1 carcinogen — in the same category as tobacco — and it is directly implicated in the development of skin cancers in humans," she said.⁹ "In contrast, concerns about sunscreen or certain sunscreen ingredients are largely theoretical and unproven, and the benefits of sunscreen in preventing melanoma and other skin cancers far outweigh theoretical risks in studies that have shown no harm of sunscreens in humans." 

"Sunscreen blocks all vitamin D production." 

"Real-world studies show that typical sunscreen use does not cause vitamin D deficiency," Dr Kannan commented.

Findings of a cross-sectional study published in 2022 showed negative correlations between sun exposure and self-reported vitamin D deficiency among US adults. No association was found between sunscreen use and vitamin D deficiency, similar to results observed in previous studies.¹⁴

"Brief incidental sun exposure, oral vitamin D supplementation, and certain foods maintain adequate 25-OH vitamin D levels without sacrificing skin integrity," Dr Kannan explained. Food sources of vitamin D include egg yolks, fatty fish, and red meat, as well as fortified foods and beverages including cereals and milk.¹⁴

"Natural oils like coconut oil or beef tallow provide adequate sun protection."

"The idea that natural oils, such as coconut oil, offer meaningful protection from the sun's harmful UV rays is simply false," Dr Grossberg stated. "While some natural oils may have SPF ranging from 2 to 8, this is well below the protection needed to prevent skin cancer or sun damage."¹⁵

These oils also "lack UVA coverage, degrade quickly, and fail water-resistance standards," Dr Kannan added. "Relying on these oils for sun protection invites cumulative DNA damage, skin cancers, and photoaging down the road."

"Coconut oil and similar substances cannot replace FDA-approved sunscreens," Dr Vanchinathan said.

"Developing a solar callus can protect the skin from UV damage." 

"The idea that you can build up a natural resistance to UV exposure over time is another that has become popular recently," according to Dr Grossberg. "However, a solar callus — or skin hardening, as it's sometimes called — is really just another term for a getting a tan and does not meaningfully increase resistance to or provide protection from solar radiation."

"While melanin provides a minimal degree of additional protection, tanning reflects DNA damage and does not prevent further UV harm," Dr Vanchinathan said.

"A tan does not provide protection against the sun, and there is no such thing as safe tan," Dr Kannan stated. "It's better to use clothing and sunscreen for sun protection."

Dr Grossberg emphasized the need for clinicians to correct misconceptions about sun protection while acknowledging patient concerns and remaining non-judgmental. "Often, when our patients or their family members learn they may be putting themselves or their children at increased risk for skin cancer, they are open to more discussion on how to mitigate these risks," she said. "Taking the time to explain the safety data behind our sunscreen recommendations goes a long way."

To address sun protection myths in the clinic, providers should "invite questions, acknowledge concerns, then share concise data and provide take-home infographics in plain language," Dr Kannan recommended.⁹ "Partner with colleagues who specialize in primary care, pediatrics, and obstetrics and gynecology to ensure consistent messaging across specialties."

To counter sun protection myths on social media, "Clinicians engaging credible voices online and also creating their own dynamic, evidence-based social media content can help counteract misinformation," Dr Vanchinathan explained.

For dermatologists creating their own content, "Produce short, engaging reels debunking single myths (for example, beef tallow ≠ sunscreen), use trending audio for reach, and link to peer-reviewed summaries," Dr Kannan advised. She further suggested working with social platforms to "flag demonstrably false health claims and boost evidence-based content."

Public Health and Community Efforts

Along with efforts to correct sun protection myths in the clinic, ongoing public health measures and community-based approaches are needed.¹⁶

"Public health campaigns that are modernized and accessible can help counter this misinformation trend," Dr Grossberg said. "These may include leveraging social media with dermatologist-backed content, promoting sun safety in schools, as well as regulating marketing that falsely promotes some of these unsafe or less effective products." She also cited the need to encourage companies to share product safety data transparently.

Dr Kannan suggested the implementation of national UV-safety campaigns modeled on anti-tobacco efforts, featuring real melanoma survivors and clear calls to action. Additional recommendations include the integration of photoprotection education into school curricula, engagement in community outreach by offering brief sun-safety sessions at local schools and community centers, and provision of free skin cancer screenings at workplaces, beaches, and sporting events to normalize sunscreen as routine health care.

Dr Kannan also noted that sunscreen is 1 pillar of sun protection and that "UV protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, midday shade, and behavior change can multiply protection and lessen dependence on any single modality."¹⁷  

References:

 

1. Herman C, Harb N, Ghazarian M, Belzile E, Morena N, Meguerditchian AN. BIO25-022: why don't they want to wear sunscreen? quantifying anti-sunscreen messaging on TikTok. J Natl Compr Canc Netw. 2025;23(3.5):BIO25-022. doi:10.6004/jnccn.2024.7105
2. Nikookam Y, Potluru A, Guckian J. Comment on 'a cross-sectional analysis of TikTok content relating to sunscreen conspiracy theories and correlation with published evidence on sunscreen risks': debunking sunscreen myths and trends – lessons for dermatology educators. Clin Exp Dermatol. 2025;50(5):1025–1027. doi:10.1093/ced/llae492
3. Silva HM. Misinformation about sunscreens on Brazilian social networks: a risk to public health. Trends in Medical Research. 2024;19(1):285-292. doi.org:10.3923/tmr.2024.285.292
4. Sander M, Sander M, Burbidge T, Beecker J. The efficacy and safety of sunscreen use for the prevention of skin cancer. CMAJ. 2020;192(50):E1802-E1808. doi:10.1503/cmaj.201085
5. Dale Wilson B, Moon S, Armstrong F. Comprehensive review of ultraviolet radiation and the current status on sunscreens. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2012;5(9):18-23. Accessed August 9, 2025. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3460660/pdf/jcad_5_9_18.pdf
6. American Academy of Dermatology. What to wear to protect your skin from the sun. Accessed August 9, 2025. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/sun-protection/shade-clothing-sunscreen/what-to-wear-protect-skin-from-sun
7. American Cancer Society. Spend time outside and stay sun-safe. Published March 7, 2025. Accessed August 9, 2025. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/latest-news/stay-sun-safe-this-summer.html
8. Brar G, Dhaliwal A, Brar AS, et al. A comprehensive review of the role of UV radiation in photoaging processes between different types of skin. Cureus. 2025;17(3):e81109. doi:10.7759/cureus.81109
9. The World Medical Association. WMA statement on solar radiation and photoprotection. Published October 26, 2021. Accessed August 9, 2025. https://www.wma.net/policies-post/wma-statement-on-solar-radiation-and-photoprotection/
10. Raymond-Lezman JR, Riskin SI. Sunscreen safety and efficacy for the prevention of cutaneous neoplasm. Cureus. 2024;16(3):e56369. doi:10.7759/cureus.56369
11. Matta MK, Florian J, Zusterzeel R, et al. Effect of sunscreen application on plasma concentration of sunscreen active ingredients: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA. 2020;323(3):256-267. doi:10.1001/jama.2019.20747
12. Jaskulak M, Cinkusz M, Franchuk K, Zorena K. Endocrine and reproductive health considerations of sunscreen UV filters: insights from a comprehensive review 2014-2024. Curr Environ Health Rep. 2025;12(1):28. doi:10.1007/s40572-025-00492-9
13. US Food and Drug Administration. FDA In Brief: FDA announces results from second sunscreen absorption study. Published January 20, 2020. Accessed August 9, 2025. https://www.wma.net/policies-post/wma-statement-on-solar-radiation-and-photoprotection/
14. Andrade JM, Grandoff PG, Schneider ST. Vitamin D intake and factors associated with self-reported vitamin D deficiency among US adults: a 2021 cross-sectional study. Front Nutr. 2022;9:899300. doi:10.3389/fnut.2022.899300
15. Arkhipenko Z, Shah SC, Yi RC, Feldman SR. A review on homemade sunscreen. Journal of Integrative Dermatology. Published online April 7, 2025. Accessed August 9, 2025.
16. Love B, Ghosh C, Oestman K, et al. Understanding the impact of community-based sun safety interventions on a college campus in Texas. J Am Coll Health. 2024:1-8. doi:10.1080/07448481.2024.2367989
17. American Academy of Dermatology. Sunscreen FAQs. Last update February 11, 2025. Accessed August 9, 2025. https://www.aad.org/media/stats-sunscreen

Tori Rodriguez, MA, LPC, AHC