Scientists have urged the public to continue using sunscreen to protect against skin cancer, after a study showed the body can absorb ingredients found in common sunblock products.
At the end of the study, the team found concentrations of the active ingredients in participants’ blood. These exceeded the levels set by the Food and Drug Administration which determine whether a product needs safety testing.Past studies have found oxybenzone and octocrylene have been found in human breast milk, the authors wrote. Oxybenzone has also been identified in urine, blood and amniotic fluid. But scientists aren’t sure what this means for the health of sunblock users.
In a statement, the Food and Drug Administration said: “The fact that an ingredient is absorbed through the skin and into the body does not mean the ingredient is unsafe. "It is important to note there is no evidence from this study that there is any health risk. And even at maximal use, any theoretical risk is almost certainly far smaller than the reduced risk of skin cancer that has been shown to be associated with sunscreen use."
“The first line of defense against the sun should be shade and clothing, with sunscreen used for additional protection," said Birine.