Sunscreen Evangelist Responds to Mark Sisson's Article on Sun Protection

As someone affectionately dubbed the “sunscreen evangelist,” I’m deeply passionate about sun protection. So, when a friend sent me Mark Sisson’s article, “How Does Sunscreen Work, and Should You Use It?”, I couldn’t resist reading and sharing my thoughts.

Given that BU, the brand I proudly represent, was created in Malibu, my friend wondered if Mark and I might know each other. While we haven’t met, we share mutual friends who speak highly of him. Having spent over 30 years developing sunscreens, I wanted to offer additional insights and responses to the points he raised in his article.

How Sunscreen Works: Mineral vs. Chemical Filters

Mark, like you, I’ve always loved the outdoors. As a sun enthusiast, I used to brush off sunburns, thinking they’d soon turn into a “good base tan.” My dislike of greasy, inconvenient sunscreens led me to create sun protection that people want to wear.

In your article, you explained how chemical and mineral sunscreens work. You’re absolutely right—chemical filters absorb and dissipate UV rays as heat, while mineral filters like Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide work similarly. While they also reflect UV rays, this accounts for only about 5-10% of their effectiveness. So they both absorb, again, only a small percentage is reflect away from the skin.

Debunking Common Concerns About Sunscreen Ingredients

Endocrine-Disrupting UV Filters

I appreciate your mention of endocrine-disrupting ingredients like benzophenone and oxybenzone. BU sunscreens don’t contain these. It’s also worth noting that many studies highlighting these risks were conducted on animals exposed to extremely high doses—doses far beyond what humans experience in a lifetime through topical application.

On a personal note, I’ve used more sunscreen than anyone I know over the past 30 years. While I might not have a primal physique like yours, I’m doing well, and my skin is in better shape than it has any right to be, given my sun-loving youth.

Imbalanced UV Protection

We agree on the importance of broad-spectrum protection. At BU, every product shields against both UVA and UVB rays, ensuring comprehensive defense.

Environmental Concerns and Reef-Safe Sunscreens

The topic of “reef-safe” sunscreens has been a constant source of frustration. Let’s start with the truth: humans aren’t “reef-safe.” Our microbiomes, along with the products we use (haircare, skincare, sunscreen), all contribute to environmental strain. However, these are not the primary causes of reef damage.

In 1980, a scientist in Hawaii observed bleaching reefs caused by a factory dumping hot water into the ocean, raising temperatures by just 1.5°C. Today, Florida’s reefs are facing similar bleaching due to rising ocean temperatures, not sunscreen.

Regarding Zinc Oxide (ZnO) and Titanium Dioxide (TiO2):

• These minerals are marketed as biodegradable, but they’re not. They bio-accumulate, covering reefs without breaking down.
• Powerful lobbying efforts ensure limited studies on their environmental impact. PubChem even lists ZnO as “very toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects.”
• My conversation with Jean-Michael Cousteau, who noted the non-biodegradable nature of these minerals, underscores the complexity of this issue.

I highly recommend Environmental Sciences Europe’s report on reef-safe claims and Diver Magazine’s article by Jean-Michael Cousteau, The Truth About Sunscreens and Coral Reefs.

BU’s Commitment to Safe and Effective Sunscreens

Ingredient Safety

BU adheres strictly to FDA guidelines, excluding harmful substances like parabens and retinols. We also steer clear of Titanium Dioxide due to long-standing concerns about its stability, as advised by a molecular geneticist 25 years ago, who sat on our scientific advisory board.

Sunscreen Best Practices

Mark, I resonate deeply with your recommendations for sun safety:

• Use alternatives first: BU offers UV apparel with 98% broad-spectrum protection—ultra-lightweight and never losing efficacy.
• Choose sunscreens you’ll use consistently: If mineral creams aren’t your preference, opt for a formula you’ll reapply regularly.
• Reapply often: BU’s anhydrous formulation remains stable over time, ensuring reliable protection when used as directed.
• Don’t neglect expired products: While BU’s stable formulations have a long shelf life, always check for storage conditions.

Final Thoughts

Mark, I admire your commitment to health, wellness, and the environment. As we continue to celebrate the sun responsibly, let’s prioritize both personal well-being and the planet’s future.

Your efforts to shed light on these important topics are invaluable, and I thank you for sparking this meaningful discussion.

Stay passionate, stay informed, and keep sharing the knowledge.