Will SPF give you cancer?

This subject rears its ugly head every summer and I usually avoid drawing attention to it, however, I’ve had a number of people message me this week and ask about this topic directly…

So, I thought it was time we had the chat about whether or not SPF causes cancer.

Before we get into this, I’m going to immediately put your mind at rest and let you know that there isn’t a single piece of evidence that suggests this could be true. So, where the heck are these rumours coming from?!

Over the past couple of decades we’ve seen a rise in skin cancer cases which has led some people to think this has been caused by the chemicals in sunscreen. However there is absolutely zero scientific research to backup these claims and in fact, everything is a chemical - Including water and oxygen which are essential for life on earth!

A more logical explanation about the rise in skin cancer diagnoses is that technology has advanced hugely, there are now (sadly) holes in the ozone layer, people are living longer and the development of the internet now means you come across people like me. We try to warn you of the dangers of UV rays and encourage you to go and get any unusual lumps and bumps checked. This means more people are being tested than ever before and it’s caused the numbers to reach an all time high.

These aren’t just theories though, everything mentioned above is based on fact. Recent studies have proven that between 80-90% of skin cancer cases are directly related to the sun. The other 10-20% have been connected to genetics or lifestyle choices. Research has also shown that applying SPF every day reduced the chances of developing skin cancer by a whopping 50%.

So what we know for definite, without any shadow of a doubt, is that the sun DOES cause cancer and sunscreen DOES prevent it. There isn’t a single ounce of proof of it being the opposite way around. Unfortunately, the people spreading this misinformation have at best, simply misunderstood the situation and at worst, are deliberately trying to frighten people.

Having been through the process of developing Sunbeam Cream - SPF 50, I can tell you that these things are tested to within an inch of their lives. If there was even the tiniest chance that these formulas may be in someway harmful, they’d be immediately rejected - No ifs, buts or maybes.

The other thing to be mindful of is that both Aestheticians and Dermatologists would make far more money if we never recommended SPF. The alternative treatments for sun damage involve laser treatments, IPL, skin peels and in some cases, surgeries, all of which could cost you thousands of pounds! Sunscreen is literally the cheapest way to avoid this and we all actively encourage you to apply it.

So, although it’s incredibly difficult to block out the noise, just make sure all the information you gather about skin is coming from a fully qualified, licensed professional.

Our job is to keep you and your skin as safe, happy and healthy as possible. Which is why Sunbeam Cream will forever be the last step in the 5 Minute Kit and why it’s always the most important too ❤️