Monday, October 05, 2026

Big Picture Science for Oct. 05, 2026: Skeptic Check: Sunny Daze

Woman’s upper back and shoulders with a distinct sunburn. The exposed skin on the neck, shoulders, and upper back is bright red, while the skin that was covered by a swimsuit or top is much lighter, creating clear strap and V-shaped tan lines. The redness is even and widespread, without visible blisters or peeling in this image.









Big Picture Science: Skeptic Check: Sunny Daze

A growing online movement of sunscreen skeptics believes that sunblock is toxic, even suggesting that it might cause skin cancer. Medical experts, concerned by rising skin cancer rates, are rushing to push back against these claims. Meanwhile, new research suggests that too little sunlight could be detrimental to health and links it to some cardiovascular disease and cancer. How do we navigate through the darkness of these seemingly conflicting messages about sunlight? We enter the slippery world of skin care to break down the science of sunlight and sunscreen and uncover some surprising effects that UV rays have on our bodies.

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