Posted on 03/08/2021
1 min read
A new study by Franco-American researchers reveals that octocrylene, a frequently used sunscreen, could cause cancer.
An ingredient present in sun protection and anti-aging products is said to be potentially carcinogenic. This is the result of a survey carried out by Franco-American researchers and published this Monday in the journal Chemical Research in Toxicology. After analyzing around fifteen sunscreen and anti-aging creams from France and the United States, the study concludes that octocrylene protects against UV rays, but is also the cause of cancer.
A danger for the environment and health
Research shows that octocrylene gradually converts into benzophenone as the product begins to age. However, benzophenone is an ingredient considered to be an endocrine disruptor and is classified as “Possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B)” by the WHO International Agency for Research on Cancer. According to them, there is sufficient evidence in animals to conclude that this ingredient is harmful to health (liver cancer, lymphoma).
Not only could this substance cause cancer, it is also harmful to corals. It is for these reasons that certain territories where there are coral reefs have prohibited this product for several years now. According to Professor Philippe Lebaron, biologist and co-author of the study, benzophenone is easily absorbed by the skin and its presence in sun products increases by up to 200% when the product ages. A significant phenomenon, which according to researchers, must be taken into account by manufacturers of sunscreens.
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