Blogger Goes Undercover: Derms + Sunscreen

I recently read a great blog – “How Much Sunscreen Is Needed during Vitamin D Winter?” – by award-winning journalist, author, comedian and filmmaker Harmon Leon. In it, he shared the results of his mini undercover investigation of dermatologists’ offices that sell sunscreen products.

Leon had initial concerns about vitamin D deficiency, particularly during the winter months when sun exposure is less prevalent. His concerns were compounded when he visited a dermatologist – who suggested that he apply sunscreen every four hours. He noted a curious connection between the advice and the seeming “conflict of interest” among dermatologists selling costly independently branded sunscreens (not available in local drugstores).

To investigate, Leon called six California dermatology offices to inquire about:

• Types of sunscreens the office would recommend – drugstore brands or other.

• The connection between sunscreen use and cancer prevention.

• SPF numbers and their role – if any – in cancer prevention.

• Reasons the office advised against sunscreens available at the drugstore.

• Whether there were risks associated with the absorption of sunscreen ingredients into the skin (and frequent reapplication of the lotion).

Leon continued his research online, purchasing some of the products from the dermatologists’ offices and studying ingredients, such as oxybenzone, titanium dioxide, and vitamin A and its derivatives. Some of the derm-office products contained octinoxate, which has been connected to a variety of health concerns. He also came across the Environmental Working Group’s examination of sunscreen ingredients and the FDA’s comments on misleading SPF numbers.

In conclusion, Leon noted several concerns regarding the sale of sunscreen products through dermatology offices, and their curious link to big pharma. Now if we could just get him a bigger platform.