A scientific study determined that using sunscreen products “massively increases” the wearer’s chances of skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
Context
The study cited in the claim was not referring to the use of sunscreen products in general but rather the “sunscreen paradox,” the phenomenon of people allowing for extended exposure to UV light because of a “false sense of security” or not reapplying sunscreen throughout a day in the sun. The study ultimately emphasized “the importance of adequate and frequent sunscreen use and minimization of exposure to UV light.”
A rumor that a scientific study determined that wearing sunscreen "massively increases" the wearer's risk of common skin cancers circulated online in late June 2026.
One social media post about the alleged results of the study said, "The single LARGEST sunscreen-skin cancer study EVER conducted found sunscreen users face dramatically higher risks of EVERY major skin cancer."
Some versions of the claim circulated with a link to a story about the purported findings that cited only other social media posts on the topic.
(@toobaffled on X)
The claim was false.
The study cited in the claim was published in the November 2023 issue of the medical journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention.
The study aimed to explore "gene-specific environment interactions in at-risk individuals" as it pertained to the link between sun exposure and skin cancers.
The factors...
A scientific study determined that using sunscreen products “massively increases” the wearer’s chances of skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Context...