Gordon Ramsay recently underwent surgery to remove basal cell carcinoma, a form of skin cancer. He shared his experience on Instagram, urging people to wear sunscreen daily to protect against harmful UV rays. His message highlights the importance of sun protection and skin cancer awareness for all. But can sunscreen cause cancer?
After former Australian cricket captain Michael Clarke's sixth skin cancer surgery reports surfaced on social media, citing the ongoing risks of sun exposure in countries like Australia, another celebrity chef, Gordon Ramsay, also revealed that he recently underwent surgery to remove a form of skin cancer. The 58-year-old took to Instagram to share the news and urged people to on Friday. These cases have raised the importance of using sunscreen every day.
The celebrity chef opened up about his recent surgery, using the moment to stress the importance of daily sun protection. While some even raised concerns about the use of sunscreen potentially being carcinogenic. But is it safe to use sunscreen daily? Let's find out.
Gordon Ramsay suffered basal cell carcinoma | Credit: Instagram | @gordongram
Ramsay revealed that he underwent surgery to remove a basal cell carcinoma (BCC). In his Instagram post, he humorously clarified that the stitches were not from a facelift but emphasised the critical need to protect skin from harmful UV damage.
His message was widely praised by fans and groups like Cancer Research UK for increasing awareness. "Most skin cancer surgery is low risk, but no surgery is completely without danger," says Dr Utkarsh Ajgaonkar, Consultant - Surgical Oncology, TGH Oncolife Cancer Centre.
"Common risks include bleeding, infection, scarring, delayed wound healing, numbness or nerve injury, poor cosmetic/functional outcome, and (rarely) anaesthesia complications."
According to the Cleveland Clinic, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a form of skin cancer that develops in the basal cells located in the lower layer of the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. It often appears as a small, shiny bump or a flat, scaly patch that gradually enlarges over time.
According to Dr. Ajgaonkar, early signs of skin cancer may include:
While many associate skin cancer with obvious warning signs like new or changing moles, some symptoms are less noticeable, says Dr. Shitij Goel, Director & Head, Dermatologist, Sharda Hospital, Greater Noida.
"These include small, pearly lesions, persistent dry or scaly patches, sores that won't heal, or spots that itch or bleed repeatedly. Such signs often appear in overlooked areas like the ears, scalp, back of the neck, or between the toes," Dr. Goel added.
Prevention starts with consistent daily sun protection. Dr. Goel suggests, "Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days. Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses, and avoid peak UV hours whenever possible. Regularly check your skin at home and consult a dermatologist, especially if you have fair skin or a history of sunburns."
Sunscreen is a must | Credit: Pexels
According to reports from the University of Health Centre, reports have emerged of high benzene levels, a known carcinogen, in several sunscreens, raising concerns about whether sunscreen might cause harm.
However, these findings come from a single study by Valisure, which has not yet been independently verified. Interestingly, benzene was also detected in blank test tubes without sunscreen, leading some to question whether the testing methods influenced the results.
Answering the same, Dr. Ajgaonkar said, "Sunscreen is protective for skin cancer, as it protects against harmful UV radiation."
"Benzene is not an ingredient in sunscreens; contamination likely occurs during manufacturing or packaging. Occasional, very low-level exposure through topical products is far less dangerous than chronic inhalation (e.g., industrial workers or heavy smokers), but since benzene is linked to blood cancers like leukaemia, it is best to minimise unnecessary exposure."
Sunscreen protects against skin cancer. Use non-spray formulations and verified safe brands to minimise benzene concerns.