The Truth About the Sun and Sunscreen: What You’re Not Being Told

For decades, we've been told to fear the sun—cover up, slather on sunscreen, and avoid exposure as much as possible. But emerging research and a growing chorus of health professionals are challenging this narrative. The truth is, human beings evolved with—and need—sunlight. Our ancestors lived outdoors for most of their lives, and sunlight played a crucial role in maintaining health. In fact, regular sun exposure is essential for vitamin D synthesis, immune function, hormone regulation, and even mental well-being.

Vitamin D, often called the “sunshine vitamin,” is produced when our skin is exposed to UVB rays. It's a cornerstone of immune health, bone density, and inflammation control. Yet today, widespread fear of the sun has contributed to a silent epidemic of vitamin D deficiency. Deficiency has been linked to increased risks of autoimmune disorders, mood disorders, and even certain cancers. While moderate sun exposure—without burning—is not only safe but necessary, the mainstream approach has been to block it entirely, often with toxic chemicals.

And that’s where the sunscreen industry comes under scrutiny. Many of the most popular sunscreens on the market contain chemical ingredients like oxybenzone, octinoxate, and homosalate—compounds that are known endocrine disruptors and have been detected in the bloodstream long after application. Some studies suggest these chemicals may increase the risk of cancer rather than prevent it. Ironically, while sunscreen is marketed as a cancer-prevention tool, the rates of skin cancer have continued to rise, raising serious questions about whether these products are doing more harm than good.

This doesn't mean we should abandon all sun protection—but it’s time to rethink our relationship with the sun. Choose mineral-based sunscreens that use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, avoid peak midday exposure when necessary, and focus on building a healthy tolerance to the sun gradually, just as our ancestors did. Our bodies are designed to live in rhythm with nature, and sunlight is not our enemy—it’s a life-giving force we’ve evolved alongside. The more we return to this common-sense understanding, the more empowered we become to take our health into our own hands.