Allergenicity and Unregulated Marketing Claims in Tinted Sunscreens

Background: Tinted sunscreens are gaining popularity among skin of color populations due to their protection against visible light-induced hyperpigmentation and elimination of the white cast. Despite growing use, little is known about their allergenicity or the reliability of safety-oriented marketing claims.Objective: To assess the relationship between allergen content, active ingredients, marketing claims, and price in top-rated, best-selling tinted sunscreens.Methods: We conducted an analysis of 49 tinted sunscreens from 3 major online retailers. Products were evaluated for allergens listed in the 2020 American Contact Dermatitis Society Core Allergen Series, presence of marketing claims, UV filters, and price per ounce.Results: Ninety-eight percent of products contained at least 1 allergen (mean 3.1). The average price per ounce was $18.95. Products with multiple shade options were more expensive ($22.92 vs $16.65/oz; P = 0.04), while "nano-particle free" products were less expensive ($14.26 vs $20.83/oz; P = 0.04). Marketing claims were abundant (mean 11.7). "Fragrance free," "cruelty free," "reef friendly," and "nano-particle free" claims were associated with fewer allergens (P < 0.05). Octisalate and octinoxate correlated with more allergens; zinc oxide with fewer (P < 0.05).Conclusions: Tinted sunscreens frequently contain allergens despite safety-related marketing claims. Clinicians should guide product selection based on allergenic potential, active ingredients, and cost.