In case you haven’t seen it, “Gwyneth Paltrow’s Guide to Everyday Skin Care and Wellness” is now live on Vogue’s website. While it’s Vogue, which typically signifies luxury, the advice is comically extravagant and completely disconnected from reality. I found the first part amusing. Want skin like Gwyn? Just wake up, whip up a nut milk smoothie, meditate with your partner, dry brush towards your heart, and then indulge in a $125 exfoliating scrub, an $185 serum, $75 hydrating eye pads, a $200 vibrating face massager, and a $48 glow lotion. Oh, and don’t forget an $18 moisturizer—because celebrities are just like us, right?
I have no issue with her indulging in high-end skincare products. If I had her wealth, I might splurge on that $185 face oil promising miraculous results, too. Who wouldn’t want their skin to look as flawless as a newborn’s?
However, things took a turn when Ms. Paltrow discussed her sunscreen application. While dabbing a poppy seed-sized amount of “clean” mineral sunscreen on her nose and cheeks, she uttered a series of concerning claims. She expressed her desire to avoid conventional sunscreens due to their “harsh chemicals” and recommended the EWG (Environmental Working Group) as a reliable resource, emphasizing its Skin Deep database for evaluating product safety.
Blythe Danner, please intervene! Gwyneth is spreading some dangerous misinformation again. In her morning routine video, she recalled how you instilled a “less is more” philosophy in her makeup routine. Perhaps you could encourage her to adopt a similar approach when discussing health-related topics?
For those unfamiliar, the EWG is known for its strong stance against GMOs and has even dabbled in anti-vaccine rhetoric. They publish an annual “Dirty Dozen” list, warning against fruits and vegetables with pesticide residues and frequently label sunscreens as ineffective or hazardous, promoting costly organic mineral alternatives instead.
It’s important to understand that everything, including water, is a chemical. The principle “the dose makes the poison” indicates that many substances can be safe in small amounts but dangerous in large quantities. Alas, the EWG rarely bases its recommendations on rigorous scientific evidence, often facing criticism from experts who affirm that sunscreen is both safe and effective.
Sadly, many, including Gwyneth, fall prey to the EWG’s misleading claims about skincare, food, and even household products.
Am I shocked that Gwyneth, the face behind Goop, is sharing bizarre sunscreen advice? Not at all. But it’s incredibly frustrating that another privileged celebrity is promoting potentially life-threatening misinformation that could affect everyday people.
While Gwyneth believes sunscreen is harmful, in reality, it is crucial for preventing skin cancer. In my dermatologist’s office, there’s no shortage of reminders to use sunscreen—he has countless bottles readily available.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, everyone should apply SPF 30 or higher to all exposed skin whenever going outdoors—including children! Sunscreen should be a daily staple. The best sunscreen is one you’ll actually use, so choose a cream, lotion, spray, or stick that suits you.
Expensive mineral sunscreens are acceptable and are regulated like over-the-counter drugs. If you’re inclined to purchase one of the few products the EWG endorses, go for it. But don’t let Gwyneth Paltrow’s celebrity status mislead you into thinking you need to overspend or rely on self-proclaimed “experts” for sun protection. Instead, remember to apply sunscreen generously and follow the guidance of real experts, who agree that daily use is essential in protecting against sun damage and skin cancer.
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Summary:
Gwyneth Paltrow’s recent sunscreen advice, influenced by the Environmental Working Group, is misleading and potentially harmful. While she promotes a “clean” approach to skincare, the reality is that sunscreen is vital for preventing skin cancer. Experts recommend daily application of SPF 30 or higher, and sunscreen is regulated for safety. It’s crucial not to be swayed by celebrity opinions and instead rely on genuine scientific guidance.