Recently, you might have seen headlines questioning the effectiveness and safety of sunscreens in Australia. To provide clarity and expert advice, our very own leading Sydney dermatologist, Dr Ritu Gupta, was invited to speak on ABC 702 Radio to address these concerns.
Following recent reports from Choice magazine and the TGA, many have been left wondering if their sunscreen is truly protecting them. Dr Ritu set the record straight, reaffirming that sunscreen is both safe and one of the most effective tools we have for preventing skin cancer.
The key, she emphasised, isn’t just if you use sunscreen, but how you use it. Here are the essential takeaways from her feature:
Dr Ritu’s Key Points on Sunscreen Safety & Efficacy:
- Application is Everything: The most common mistake is not applying enough sunscreen. For effective protection, use a generous amount and reapply every 2 hours, or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating.
- Know Your Ingredients: The best sunscreens often combine physical blockers (like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) with chemical absorbers. Dr Ritu advises checking the ingredient list and staying informed about product recalls, which are typically related to manufacturing issues rather than the fundamental safety of sunscreen itself.
- Protection for the Whole Family: Sun protection is vital for everyone. Dr Ritu highlighted that childhood sunburns significantly increase the risk of skin cancer later in life. She also reminded listeners that UVA rays can penetrate car windows, making protection necessary even while driving.
- Sunscreen and Vitamin D: A common concern is that sunscreen will lead to Vitamin D deficiency. Dr Ritu clarified that most people get enough Vitamin D from just 10-15 minutes of sun exposure outside of peak UV hours.
- Beyond the Bottle: For added protection, consider clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating. Additionally, makeup and tints containing SPF can offer an extra layer of defence against both UV rays and visible light, which contribute to skin aging and pigmentation.
Despite the recent controversies, Dr Ritu’s message is clear: don’t abandon your sunscreen. Consistent and correct use remains your best defence against sun damage and skin cancer.
Listen to the full interview on ABC 702 Radio here:
To consult with Dr Ritu, you can book online, send a WhatsApp message to 0493 766 096, or call (02) 8014 6500.
