A look back at 2025’s sunscreen controversy and confusion

This year, sunscreen became the center of a heated conversation in the media, leaving consumers questioning which products are actually safe and effective. From FDA warnings in the U.S. to a national scandal in Australia, experts and public health organizations have had to reassure folks that sun protection remains essential, despite the confusion fueled by social media and inconsistent product labeling.

In July, the FDA issued warning letters to several companies, including Supergoop, over sunscreens sold in whipped, mousse or foam forms. According to the agency, these formats have not been approved as safe and effective for over-the-counter use.

Only oils, lotions, creams, gels, butters, pastes, ointments and sticks are currently considered safe and effective, the FDA noted. Products marketed outside of these forms are technically “misbranded,” and selling them is illegal under federal law. Companies had 15 days to respond with corrective actions, but the controversy sparked confusion among consumers who had been using these newer, popular formats.

Meanwhile, across the globe in Australia, a similar uproar unfolded. Independent testing by Choice Australia revealed that 16 of 20 popular sunscreens did not meet the SPF levels listed on their packaging. Ultra Violette’s Lean Screen SPF 50+ Mattifying Zinc Skinscreen returned an SPF reading of just 4 in independent labs, despite being marketed as a high-protection facial product.

These findings lead to product recalls and regulatory investigations, shaking consumer confidence in sunscreen reliability. Cosmetic chemist Michelle Wong noted to the BBC that the issue is not unique to Australia, as many sunscreen brands use similar formulas and testing labs worldwide.

In the midst of these warnings and recalls, public confusion was heightened by online misinformation. False claims suggesting that sunscreen causes skin cancer spread widely on social media, leaving some people questioning whether sun protection is even necessary.

Dermatologists strongly debunked these claims. Elizabeth Buzney, M.D., outpatient clinical director at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and assistant professor at Harvard Medical School, said in a report shared by the Skin Cancer Foundation that there is no evidence that wearing sunscreen causes skin cancer. She added that what is known is that the sun causes most skin cancers.

Studies have shown that consistent sunscreen use can reduce melanoma risk by 50% and squamous cell carcinoma by 40%.

In addition, sunscreen regulations and technology vary widely around the world. While U.S. approval for new active ingredients can be slow, other countries, including members of the European Union, have approved advanced UV filters such as Tinosorb, Mexoryl and Uvinul, which offer broader UVA and UVB protection, according to a report by Stanford Medicine.

Globally, these newer ingredients help improve efficacy and minimize irritation, but they are not yet FDA-approved for sale in the U.S. Experts noted that this disparity highlights both the scientific complexity of sunscreen creation and the need for careful consumer guidance.

Dermatologists stressed that proper use is just as important as the product itself. Joyce Teng, M.D., Ph.D., professor of pediatric dermatology, also shared with Stanford Medicine that most people don’t apply enough sunscreen and that frequent reapplication—especially after swimming or sweating—is essential.

Broad-spectrum sunscreens with SPF 30 or higher, paired with protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses, provide the most effective defense against sun damage and skin cancer.

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) echoed these points in a statement back in May.

“Sunscreen remains a vital part of skin cancer prevention,” AAD President Susan C. Taylor, M.D., said. “The best sunscreen is the one you’ll actually use and reapply.”

Dermatologists also advise consumers to consider personal factors such as sensitive skin, potential irritation and lifestyle when selecting a product and to consult a board-certified dermatologist for guidance.

Despite the controversies and recalls, the consensus among experts is clear: sunscreen is safe, effective and essential for long-term skin health.

Advances in formulation and regulations around the world give hope for better protection in the future, but for now, daily sun protection remains the most reliable tool against skin cancer, premature aging and other UV-related damage. Wearing sunscreen consistently, choosing broad-spectrum coverage and supplementing with physical sun protection continue to be the most effective way to safeguard skin, experts urged.