43. Wait...Is Sunscreen Bad for You?

21/09/2025 46 min Episodio 43
43. Wait...Is Sunscreen Bad for You?

Listen "43. Wait...Is Sunscreen Bad for You?"

Episode Synopsis

In this episode, Sam shades some HealthTokkers (classic) and unpacks the trendy conversation surrounding the potential carcinogenic and endocrine-disrupting effects of sunscreen. In 2024 and 2025 we have seen an unprecedented and terrifying increase in tanning among Gen Z, who self-reported not knowing—or, worse—not caring about the risks. Hopefully this helps.



Listen to this episode if you fell for the TikToks, if you're a fan of tanning, if you think someone you love is putting themself at risk, or if you're sick of the sensational/bogus "health" claims these randos on the internet are perpetuating.



Key moments:

00:35 Recap of our IRL CAPS LOCK workout event in NYC

03:44 An opportunity to come see CAPS LOCK LIVE! at a non-alc event in NYC (9/27)

06:03 Why we’re talking about SPF today

08:37 Gen Z’s tanning problem

11:58 The health implications of UV radiation exposure

13:13 The most common types of skin cancer

14:52 Melanoma

18:00 How UV radiation affects your appearance

19:16 How to prevent skin cancer

20:12 Is sunscreen actually effective in protecting from sun damage and skin cancer?

21:13 Does sunscreen contain carcinogens and endocrine disruptors?

21:41 The history/timeline of progress in sunscreen and SPF

22:59 The impact of sunscreen on the environment

24:58 Mineral (aka physical) UV filters

25:27 Why did Hawaii ban some sunscreens? (It’s not what you think)

26:09 Origins of the recent sunscreen slander 

28:01 Subsequent studies, trials, surveys, and research (a lot of it conflicts or is inconclusive TBH)

32:32 One of the only compelling human studies observing the hormonal impacts of sunscreen ingredients

33:42 Why some sunscreens were recalled for carcinogens from 2021–2023

35:40 So wait, are mineral/physical UV filters okay? Or nah

36:34 The bottom line



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