In this episode, Sam shades some HealthTokkers (classic) and unpacks the trendy conversation surrounding the potential carcinogenic and endocrine-disrupting effects of sunscreen. In 2024 and 2025 we have seen an unprecedented and terrifying increase in tanning among Gen Z, who self-reported not knowing—or, worse—not caring about the risks. Hopefully this helps.

Listen to this episode if you fell for the TikToks, if you're a fan of tanning, if you think someone you love is putting themself at risk, or if you're sick of the sensational/bogus "health" claims these randos on the internet are perpetuating.

Key moments:

00:35 Recap of our IRL CAPS LOCK workout event in NYC

03:44 An opportunity to come see CAPS LOCK LIVE! at a non-alc event in NYC (9/27)

06:03 Why we’re talking about SPF today

08:37 Gen Z’s tanning problem

11:58 The health implications of UV radiation exposure

13:13 The most common types of skin cancer

14:52 Melanoma

18:00 How UV radiation affects your appearance

19:16 How to prevent skin cancer

20:12 Is sunscreen actually effective in protecting from sun damage and skin cancer?

21:13 Does sunscreen contain carcinogens and endocrine disruptors?

21:41 The history/timeline of progress in sunscreen and SPF

22:59 The impact of sunscreen on the environment

24:58 Mineral (aka physical) UV filters

25:27 Why did Hawaii ban some sunscreens? (It’s not what you think)

26:09 Origins of the recent sunscreen slander 

28:01 Subsequent studies, trials, surveys, and research (a lot of it conflicts or is inconclusive TBH)

32:32 One of the only compelling human studies observing the hormonal impacts of sunscreen ingredients

33:42 Why some sunscreens were recalled for carcinogens from 2021–2023

35:40 So wait, are mineral/physical UV filters okay? Or nah

36:34 The bottom line

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