The sunscreen myth: could it really be causing skin cancer? | Antiviral

Chemist Dr Michelle Wong says the myth largely comes from concern around benzene, a contaminant (not an ingredient) found in some sunscreens and other products such as sanitisers and dry shampoos.

Benzene is a known carcinogen but the likelihood of cancer actually forming depends on the amount you’re exposed to.

The amount of benzene found in the consumer products recalled was minuscule.

For an adult, recommended sunscreen application is approximately one teaspoon for each arm, leg, body front, body back and face, including neck and ears.

“Sunscreen needs to be reapplied at least every two hours, irrespective of the water resistance of the sunscreen,” she says.