Dermatology professionals allege that Nara Smith is advocating for skin cancer through her recently-shared homemade sunscreen tutorial video.
In the world of skincare, influencers like Hyram, Mixed Makeup, Caress, and Kemi Fabusiwa hold significant sway among Gen Z. However, a recent trend has caused a stir in this community: Nara Smith, a model and influencer previously known as Pellman, has shared a homemade sunscreen recipe on TikTok.
Smith's recipe, which includes coconut oil, beeswax, shea butter, cocoa butter, jojoba oil, and zinc oxide powder, has been met with both praise and concern. While some applaud her all-natural approach to life, skincare experts and dermatologists have expressed reservations.
Sunscreen is considered sacred in the eyes of the online skincare community, and its importance is life-changing for many. Dermatologist Yolanda C. Holmes, a fellow at the American Academy of Dermatology, has emphasized that sunscreens should be scientifically tested to ensure they offer a certain level of sun protection. She notes that the other ingredients in Smith's recipe do not provide sun protection.
Researchers confirm that homemade sunscreens often lack the rigorously tested active ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that are recognized by the FDA as safe and effective mineral filters. Sunscreen formulation is complex; effective products must deliver consistent broad-spectrum UV protection, remain stable when exposed to heat and light, and be cosmetically acceptable for regular reapplication. Homemade recipes cannot meet these standards or undergo standardized testing.
The anti-sunscreen movement and DIY alternatives, fuelled by social media trends, can encourage unsafe practices due to fear of chemicals or misinformation about sunscreen ingredients. This can lead to greater skin damage and health risks. Holmes advises that sunscreens should be commercially formulated broad-spectrum sunscreens with SPF 30 or higher, emphasizing mineral-based options for safety and environmental considerations.
Despite these concerns, Smith's homemade sunscreen video has garnered criticism. Users on social media have expressed concerns about its safety, with one netizen stating that homemade sunscreen is equivalent to homemade melanoma (skin cancer). Another user warned that the homemade sunscreen could cause severe sunburn.
Despite the controversy, Smith continues to advocate for her all-natural approach to life. She is known for cooking gourmet meals while wearing couture fashion. However, it's important to note that the article does not provide information about how much money Nara Smith makes from TikTok.
In an article titled "A TikToker made sunscreen from scratch. We tried her recipe" in the Washington Post, the authors warn against following Smith's homemade sunscreen recipe and advise that sunscreen should continue to be purchased from stores. The advice to apply sunscreen daily remains crucial for maintaining healthy skin and preventing skin cancer.
- The skincare-focused realm, which includes influencers such as Hyram, Mixed Makeup, Caress, and Kemi Fabusiwa, intersects with fashion-and-beauty and lifestyle, but the homemade sunscreen recipe shared by Nara Smith has sparked a debate among health-and-wellness enthusiasts and skincare experts over its safety and effectiveness.
- Scientifically tested commercial sunscreens are crucial for maintaining health and preventing skin cancer, as opposed to DIY skincare recipes like the one proposed by Nara Smith, which are enjoyable as part of a lifestyle but may lack the rigorous testing and standardized formulation necessary for effective sun protection.
