Selling the Sun: The Business of Fear and Sunscreen

The Sunscreen Cult: Do We Really Need It?

 

Even though many scientific studies support the use of sunscreen, I personally think we don’t need it in the way it's promoted. Sure, we need to protect our skin, but sunscreen isn't the only solution. In my opinion, the sunscreen industry has commercialized the issue by creating fear around ultraviolet (UV) rays and claiming the sun is harmful. They talk about skin cancer, but the actual risk of getting skin cancer from sun exposure is much lower than what we’re led to believe. In fact, we still don’t fully understand all the causes of cancer. It seems to me that these industries have created a fear-based market to boost their profits.

The Commercialization of Fear

If you look online, you’ll find thousands of videos and blogs promoting various sunscreens. The question is, why do certified dermatologists insist that we need sunscreen? I mean no disrespect to them—they are great healers, and we do need dermatologists. However, what if they’re only taught what the market wants them to know—things that sell products? We should start questioning these narratives and revisiting our beliefs.

A Look at the Past

Let’s take a practical example: think about our mothers and grandmothers. They never used sunscreen, yet they aged naturally without major skin issues. Sure, they have wrinkles and flaws, but that’s a normal part of aging. Nowadays, when you see celebrities in their 50s or 60s with tight, flawless skin, you should realize it's not natural. They’ve likely undergone numerous cosmetic procedures. Don’t be fooled by this illusion—it’s how they make their money.

The Sunscreen Craze

It's interesting how the industry started by instilling fear about the sun, and now they recommend using two fingers' worth of sunscreen to stay protected. Of course, using that much product means you'll run out quickly, driving you to buy more. After years of trying different sunscreens, switching between creams, and endlessly searching for the perfect skincare products, I’ve realized something: the sun isn’t our enemy. The very existence of life on this planet is because of the sun. We were born because of it, we grow because of it, and our food comes from it.

Personalized Skincare

Now, I’m not saying the sun doesn't have its downsides. It can be harmful in some cases, depending on your body and genetics. We’re all different—the way we eat, drink, and live varies from person to person. After years of struggling with bad skin, I’ve learned to accept myself, flaws and all. Even when my skin breaks out, I’ve come to embrace it as part of who I am. Just like in life, where some people face rejection for being different, bad skin is often treated the same way. But you should accept it and give yourself space to heal.

So, What’s the Solution?

The answer is simple: observe your body and adapt to what works for you. Our ancestors used oils to protect their skin from the sun—a dab of oil was often enough unless you have oily skin. You can also use aloevera or other natural, affordable products. Be mindful of what the industry is trying to sell you, and make decisions based on your own experiences.

In the end, it doesn’t matter if you use a high-priced sunscreen or homemade coconut oil. What matters is that you find what works best for you without falling into the trap of commercialized fear.