Is sunscreen *dangerous* in pregnancy?
Has someone on TikTok told you this??
As someone who's answered countless questions about pregnancy safety over the years, the questions about sunscreen seem to have increased recently. My guess is that social media influencers have a role to play, as I’ve seen lots more misinformation about this topic in my feeds. If you’re concerned, I get it – pregnancy makes us hyper-aware of everything we put on and in our bodies. But let me start with the most important message: sunscreen is not only safe during pregnancy, it's essential.
-Dr. Jen
I’ll cut to the chase: You need sunscreen now more than ever
Here's what we know: pregnancy actually increases your skin's sensitivity to UV radiation. Those hormonal changes that are creating your beautiful baby bump are also making you more prone to melasma (those dark patches that can appear on your face) and other pigmentation changes.
Addressing the myths head-on
Myth #1: "Chemical sunscreens are endocrine disruptors"
This concern comes from laboratory studies where animals were fed extremely high doses of certain sunscreen chemicals – doses that are thousands of times higher than what humans are exposed to through normal topical use.
So instead, here are the facts about why you should feel OK using chemical sunscreen in pregnancy if you choose to:
The doses used in these animal studies would be equivalent to drinking bottles of sunscreen daily…which obviously isn't how we use these products.
You would have to use sunscreen for 277 years to be exposed to the same dose that the rats were in these studies where we saw harm. You can read about that here.
No human studies have shown endocrine disruption from normal sunscreen use, and regulatory agencies continue to affirm the safety of approved sunscreen ingredients when used as directed.
Myth #2: "Mineral sunscreen is always better"
While mineral sunscreens (aka physical sunscreens, which contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) are excellent choices that sit on top of the skin rather than being absorbed, they're not inherently "safer" than chemical sunscreens. I know this is not what TikTok influencers are telling you, but it’s true. Both mineral and chemical sunscreens are considered safe for pregnancy by major medical organizations.
But which one is “best”? It might not be what you think. The best sunscreen is the kind that you’re going to actually use. Some people love mineral sunscreen while others find it leaves a white cast, so they end up using less or skipping it altogether—leaving them at high risk for sunburns, rashes, and an increased cancer risk.
Myth #3: "Sunscreen causes cancer"
What?? I know, I didn’t know this was a thing until once again it came across my FYP on TikTok.
This myth stems from misunderstanding research about a contaminant found in certain sunscreens (and interestingly, the study hasn’t been repeated and had some questionable parts to it…you can read more about that here).
The overwhelming scientific consensus is clear: the cancer risk from UV exposure far outweighs any unproven risk from sunscreen ingredients. The American Academy of Dermatology, American Cancer Society, and the FDA (for now, thanks RFK Jr) all emphasize that regular sunscreen use significantly reduces skin cancer risk.
The real cancer risk comes from unprotected sun exposure…not from the products designed to prevent it.
An evidence-based sunscreen plan
For daily use:
Choose broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher
Either mineral or chemical sunscreens are fine
If you prefer extra peace of mind, mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are excellent choices, but don’t feel guilty if you choose a chemical version because you like it better or it goes on easier. Choose the one you will use.
Reapply every 2 hours, more if swimming or sweating
For sensitive skin (which is common in pregnancy):
Look for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formulas
Mineral sunscreens may be less irritating
Consider sunscreens labeled "for sensitive skin"
Final thoughts
Pregnancy is a time when we naturally become more cautious about everything, and that protective instinct is beautiful. But in the case of sunscreen, the evidence is clear: using it is far safer than going without. The medical consensus from dermatologists, obstetricians, and the FDA is unanimous – sunscreen is safe and beneficial during pregnancy.
Your skin is working hard to protect both you and your baby. Give it the support it needs with proper sun protection. Your future self (and your baby) will thank you for preventing sun damage that could last a lifetime.
Stay safe and protected out there!
Until next week,
Dr. Jen