Sunscreen safety in South Africa is under scrutiny again as viral posts claim it is toxic, unnecessary or even dangerous. Dermatologists warn that believing these myths could put South Africans at serious risk, especially in a country with some of the highest UV radiation levels in the world.
From claims that chemical sunscreen causes cancer to the idea that dark skin cannot burn, misinformation is spreading rapidly. And while it may sound harmless, experts say these myths are leading people to skip the one product proven to reduce the risk of sunburn, premature ageing and skin cancer.
Sunscreen safety in South Africa: What experts say you’re getting wrong
South Africans face exceptionally high UV index, especially in summer. According to CANSA, sunburn can occur in minutes during peak UV hours, significantly increasing the risk of melanoma and long-term skin damage.
Dr Alek Nikolic, aesthetic medical practitioner and founder of SkinMiles, says social media has resurrected long-debunked SPF myths, particularly around chemical ingredients such as oxybenzone. But studies often cited to support these claims involved animal testing using unrealistically high doses, far beyond what humans would ever encounter.
One dermatology review found that a person would need the equivalent of 277 years of daily sunscreen use to reach the same chemical exposure levels seen in those studies.
How sunscreens are regulated
For those still uneasy, Nikolic explains that South African manufacturers follow strict safety standards through CANSA, the South African National Standard, and the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications. Responsible brands voluntarily subject their formulations to rigorous testing, from broad-spectrum protection to stability and safety assessments.
Sunscreen in Australia recently made the news after several brands were removed following inaccurate SPF claims. These recalls highlight the importance of strong regulation.
Are South Africans using enough sunscreen?
An American study shows that 37% of Gen-Z adults only wear sunscreen when reminded. While there is no similar South African Gen-Z data, older surveys and research suggest inconsistent sunscreen use. In a past Cape Town beach survey, only around half of participants carried SPF, and usage among Black and Indian South Africans has historically been lowCombined with South Africa’s intense UV levels, this inconsistent protection creates a real risk of sun damage and skin cancer.
Low sunscreen use, combined with South Africa’s intense UV index, creates a dangerous combination.
Do people with dark skin need sunscreen?
Darker skin provides some natural protection due to higher melanin levels, but it will not prevent the damage caused by UV exposure. Anyone, regardless of race or skin tone, can develop skin cancer.
“The increased levels of melanin in dark skin provide some protection, but there are still frequent incidences of skin cancers in black South Africans – especially on the lower limbs, palms and soles of the feet,” says Dr Nikolic.
As highlighted in a recent study, UV radiation degrades a protective protein inside skin cells, weakening their ability to control inflammation and potentially increasing skin cancer risk.
Modern sunscreens have come a long way
Many people still avoid SPF and picture the old chalky formulas, but today’s sunscreens are far more advanced. Lightweight gels, invisible fluids, tinted mineral options and mineral powders now offer effective protection without a white cast.
These modern textures also make daily SPF use more practical, especially for people with darker skin tones who previously struggled with residue.
While misinformation about sunscreen ingredients spreads quickly online, experts agree that the real danger is choosing not to protect your skin at all. Whether you prefer mineral or chemical sunscreens, gels or fluids, the most important action is consistent use.
