This guy doesn’t even know what he’s in for… Photo: Shutterstock.
Well, this is really not-so-great news for male surfers. If you spend lots of time in the sun, you (hopefully) use sunscreen to save your skin. Unfortunately, while sunscreen might put you at a lower risk of skin cancer, it may put at a greater risk for fertility issues. Fertility rates around the world have been dropping continuously for the last 50 years, and scientists have an inkling that this is because of chemicals present in consumer products. Unfortunately, some of the chemicals under scrutiny are frequently used in the sunscreens we slather on every time we paddle out.
Most recently, researchers from the University of Copenhagen have found that chemicals used in sunscreens to absorb UV rays can cause sperm to function poorly. These filter-like chemicals are known as endocrine disruptors, and they are associated with fertility problems. Yikes.
The study tested 29 of the filters approved for use in the US and Europe (out of the total 31). Some of the filters include avobenzone, homosalate, meradimate, octisalate (also known as octyl salicylate), octinoxate (or octyl methoxycinnamate), octocrylene, oxybenzone (also called benzophenone-3 or BP-3) and padimate O. Over half the filters were found to disrupt normal sperm function. To test the filters, researchers dissolved them, and applied them to healthy sperm samples. Although this kind of direct contact might seem unlikely in the real world, it isn’t as far-fetched as it may appear.
These filters are very commonly absorbed through the skin after application. They can commonly penetrate the skin and make their way into the blood stream. From there, it would be logical to assume they could be carries to the testes where they could interact with sperm. A study showing the presence of these filters in urine also demonstrates the ability of the chemicals to circulate throughout the body.
In looking at how these filters work to affect sperm, researchers found that the filters mimic the effects of the female hormone, progesterone. The filter can effect the entire internal workings of the sperm by altering its balance of calcium ions.
At the end of the day, it’s important to note that the way these filters interact with sperm has only been demonstrated in the lab. Much more research needs to be done to evaluate how these agents actually operate in the body. We do currently know that UV radiation is directly connected to skin cancer, and even though these results might be scary, now is definitely not the time to abandon sunscreen completely. Please continue to use sunscreen as needed. However, it’s important to utilize other ways of reducing your sun exposure. Below are a couple ways to protect your skin:
-Surf in the morning and the evening. The sun is weaker, and there is less reflective glare on the water.
-Wear hats, long sleeves shirts, and glasses when spending time in the sun.
-Wear wetsuits, rash guards, or t-shirts when you surf.
-Use all-natural sun creams and products that likely contain a lower-concentration of these filters.
