Specific Harmful Chemicals and Their Effects

Several chemicals commonly found in baby sunscreens have raised concerns due
to their potential harmful effects on a baby’s developing body.
One of the most prominent chemicals is oxybenzone, which acts as an endocrine
disruptor and has been linked to hormone disruption[21]. Octinoxate, another com-
mon ingredient, can interfere with metabolism and thyroid hormones[21]. Homosalate
is known to penetrate the skin and may carry the risk of allowing other harmful
chemicals to enter the body[21]. Octocrylene has been associated with high rates
of skin allergies[21].
The absorption of these chemicals into the bloodstream has been confirmed by
studies, including one published in the Journal of the American Medical Association
(JAMA), which highlighted that levels of these chemicals were high enough to warrant
further research[8][23]. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) continues
to recommend the use of sunscreen while additional studies are conducted, as
the immediate risks of sun exposure—such as sunburns, skin damage, and skin
cancers—are well-documented and severe[8][23].
Additionally, there are concerns regarding the presence of benzene, a known car-
cinogen, in some sunscreen products due to manufacturing errors[9]. This underlines
the importance of careful selection and scrutiny of sunscreen products for children.
Given these risks, it is recommended to use physical sunscreens containing zinc
oxide or titanium dioxide, as they are generally safer and work by reflecting UV rays
away from the skin rather than absorbing them[11]. This approach minimizes the
risk of chemical exposure while still providing effective protection against the harmful
effects of UV radiation.

Regulatory Standards and Advocacy

Current regulatory standards for baby sunscreens are established and enforced by
the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ensure their safety and efficacy
in protecting against harmful sun exposure. The FDA’s regulations include rigorous
testing requirements for Sun Protection Factor (SPF) levels, broad-spectrum protec-
tion against UVA and UVB rays, and water resistance claims[17]. Moreover, the FDA
mandates adherence to stringent labeling guidelines, making it easier for consumers
to identify key product information[13].
In 2019, the FDA proposed significant changes to sunscreen regulations to enhance
the quality, safety, and effectiveness of these products[15]. However, the finalization
of these new rules on chemical sunscreen labels is still pending as the agency
seeks additional information[15]. Among the proposed changes, the FDA has fo-
cused on updating requirements related to maximum SPF values, active ingredients,
broad-spectrum protection, and labeling[16].
A noteworthy step taken by the FDA includes the issuance of a deemed final order
and a proposed order for over-the-counter (OTC) sunscreen products on September
24, 2021. The deemed final order sets the current marketing requirements for OTC
sunscreens, while the proposed order suggests revisions to these requirements,
reflecting the FDA’s future regulatory vision[14]. These steps are part of the FDA’s
efforts to implement new authorities for certain OTC drugs, thereby improving the
overall quality, safety, and efficacy of sunscreens[16].
Recent advocacy efforts have emphasized the need for sunscreens that exclude
harmful chemicals. In 2019, the FDA conducted a pilot study which revealed that
four chemical sunscreen actives—avobenzone, oxybenzone, octocrylene, and ecam-
sule—are absorbed into the bloodstream when used as intended[15]. Currently, only
physical sunscreens with active ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide
are recognized as generally safe[15].
The FDA continues to evaluate new scientific data and update its regulations ac-
cordingly to ensure that consumers have access to safe and effective sunscreen
products[17][18]. These efforts highlight the ongoing commitment to safeguarding
public health and providing reliable sun protection options.

Environmental Impacts

Healthy coral reefs are one of the most valuable ecosystems on Earth, providing
billions of dollars in economic and environmental services, such as food, coastal
protection, and tourism[25]. However, coral ecosystems worldwide face serious
threats from various sources, including harmful chemicals commonly found in baby
sunscreens. These sunscreens, which protect humans from cancer-causing ultravi-
olet rays, contain active ingredients that can be toxic to aquatic life in oceans, rivers,
and lakes[26].
Research has indicated that some ultraviolet filters (UVFs) in sunscreens are detri-
mental to coral reefs. As a result, regions like Hawaii and Palau have implemented
bans on certain types of sunscreen to mitigate these harmful effects[28]. A study
from the University of Alberta has provided new insights, showing that sunscreens
may be less toxic to small aquatic creatures than previously assumed, highlighting
the complexity of chemical interactions in marine environments[28].
Despite these findings, there remains an urgent need for more information to under-
stand the broad-scale impact of these chemicals on aquatic ecosystems[26]. The
potential environmental costs of these chemicals are significant, as they contribute
to the degradation of ecosystems that support a wide range of marine life[26]. To
protect these ecosystems, it is crucial to continue research and to promote the use
of safer alternatives in personal care products, including baby sunscreens[29].

Health Impacts on Infants

Short-term Effects on Baby’s Skin

The use of sunscreen on babies under 6 months old is generally not recommended
due to the potential adverse reactions associated with their delicate and sensi-
tive skin[31]. Sunscreen chemicals like oxybenzone, octinoxate, homosalate, and
octocrylene, commonly found in many products, can have short-term effects such
as skin irritation, rashes, and allergic reactions[33][34]. Infants’ skin is thinner and
absorbs substances more easily than older children and adults, which increases
the risk of these adverse effects[31]. Furthermore, oxybenzone is known to be
an endocrine disruptor, while octocrylene has been linked to high rates of skin
allergies[32]. Pediatricians and dermatologists advise using physical barriers, such
as clothing and shade, to protect infants from the sun’s harmful rays rather than
relying on chemical sunscreens[33][35].

Long-term Health Impacts

A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found
that chemicals in some sunscreens are absorbed into the bloodstream in levels
high enough to warrant additional research[30]. Pediatric dermatology providers at
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) explain that while this data highlights a
need for further investigation of sunscreens, there are already very real proven health
risks associated with over-exposure to sunlight, such as sunburns, skin damage,
and skin cancers[30]. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which conducted
the study, specifically advises people to continue to use sunscreen while additional
research is done[30]. Therefore, it is essential for parents to be aware that although
the study suggests potential risks from sunscreen chemicals, the immediate health
risks from not using sunscreen are well-documented and substantial[30].

Endocrine Disruption

Endocrine disruptors present in baby sunscreens and other suncare products have
raised significant concerns among researchers and health professionals due to
their potential impact on hormonal development in infants. A study by the George
Mason University College of Public Health has demonstrated a worrying correlation
between the use of personal care products, including sunscreens, and elevated levels
of phthalates in young children[36][37]. Phthalates, which are commonly used to
enhance the flexibility and durability of plastics, are also found in various personal
care items such as lotions, hair oils, and conditioners[36][37].
These chemicals are known for their endocrine-disrupting qualities, meaning they
can mimic, inhibit, or interfere with the body’s natural hormones. Researchers are
particularly concerned about their potential effects on children’s development during
critical growth phases. The study led by Professor Michael S. Bloom involved 630
children aged four to eight across ten sites in the United States, highlighting the
widespread nature of the issue[37].
The mechanisms through which endocrine disruptors interfere with hormonal devel-
opment are linked to their ability to be absorbed through the skin, which is porous and
allows chemicals to enter the bloodstream and lymphatic system[38]. Once inside
the body, these substances can create hormonal imbalances by interacting with the
endocrine system, leading to potential long-term health issues[38]. The presence of
these chemicals in products designed for infants underscores the urgent need for
greater scrutiny and regulation to protect children’s health.

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[5]: Avoiding harmful chemicals in baby products: advice for parents

[6]: The Most Toxic Products at Baby Stores – House Beautiful

[7]: The 14 Worst-Scoring Sunscreens for Babies and Kids

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[14]: Questions and Answers: sunscreen deemed final order and proposed order

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[26]: Sunscreen Risks to Aquatic Life and Ocean Ecosystems

[27]: Sunscreen: Its effects on the environment and on you

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[30]: Is Sunscreen Safe? – Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

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[32]: How to deal with chemicals in sunscreen for babies and kids

[33]: Should You Put Sunscreen on Infants? Not Usually | FDA

[34]: Sun Safety 101: Protecting Your Children with Sunscreen

[35]: Sunscreen Smarts for Breastfeeding Families – InfantRisk

[36]: Lotions, Sunscreens Linked To Hormonal Disruptions In Children, Study Finds

[37]: Lotions, Sunscreens Linked To Hormonal Disruptions In Children: Study

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