Don't Leave the Sunscreen at Home This Weekend

Just in time for the July 4^th weekend, there's more information from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) about which sunscreens offer the best protection.

The group released its 2011 Sunscreen Guide in May and since then, says it has received dozens of requests from companies and supporters alike asking to add more of their favorite products to the database rating more than 1,700 sun protection products.

EWG researchers analyzed 57 new products including 45 beach and sport sunscreens, eight moisturizers with SPF (Sun Protection Factor) ratings, three SPF-rated lip balms and one low-SPF product. These include common brands like Aveeno, The Body Shop and Hawaiian Tropic. Click to see the updated list of sunscreen products.

Of the new products 23 are added to EWG’s recommended list because they offer broad-spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB rays and don’t contain harmful ingredients that can penetrate the skin, such as oxybenzone and retinyl palmitate, a derivative of vitamin A.

The remaining 34 are flagged for safety or efficacy concern.

Earlier this month, after nearly 33 years – yes, years -- of deliberation, the federal Food and Drug Administration issued new sunscreen labeling rules. Unfortunately, says EWG, the federal agency has established the weakest standards for UVA protection in the world, and did not address the use of hazardous ingredients.

“Because the FDA has failed to offer good guidance to consumers on sunscreen safety, EWG has stepped in once again,” said EWG senior scientist Sonya Lunder. “Search our guide of more than 1,700 products and see how your favorite fares. Using safe and effective sunscreen is paramount when heading outdoors, especially during the summer months.”

With skin cancer affecting millions of Americans every year, consumers should consider sunscreens as only a part of their overall sun protection routine. Check out EWG’s sun safety tips for sound advice.