Screening Your Sunscreen

Slathering on the 45 SPF sunscreen this summer may not be enough to protect your skin and health. Not all sunscreens are as effective or safe as they seem and some sunscreens contain untested, potentially toxic ingredients. Looking at the label may not help -- a 45 SPF sunscreen may not offer any protection against skin-damaging UVA rays. And some new sunscreens contain nano particles, teeny tiny particles that are more easily absorbed by the skin and the body. But you won't find nano materials listed on the label either. Learn how to keep that healthy glow by choosing a safer, more effective sunscreen.

Opt for traditional zinc oxide sunscreens that appear white and avoid sunscreens that boast of nano or micro ingredients. Sunscreens that go on clear often contain "nano" particles of titanium dioxide or zinc oxide that are absorbed more easily by the skin and the body. But no one knows if these nanoparticles are toxic to you or have harmful environmental impacts, and reading the label won't help because manufacturers aren't required to label products that contain nano-particles. NRDC is working to keep these and other harmful chemicals off the market and require better labeling to allow consumers make informed decisions.

The FDA also doesn't require that sunscreens protect against UVA radiation, the rays that cause premature aging and cancer. SPF refers only to the amount of UVB rays that are blocked. The most effective protection is the easiest, wear a hat when you’re lounging on the beach or sitting in the yard. Cover up that small swimsuit with a rash guard. Many children's swimsuits are available with long sleeves to cover delicate skin. And putting on the suit is easier than remembering to apply sunscreen everytime they come out of the water. 

Find a sunscreen that protects against dangerous UVA rays and doesn't contain any ingredients that may be hazardous. EWG's Skin Deep cosmetic safety database will tell you what the label won't.	Buy a wide-brimmed hat and cover up! Buy a rash guard to wear at the beach and get the kids into swimsuits that will protect their arms and shoulders.	Learn more about what's in your other cosmetic and personal care products. The FDA doesn't require much safety testing of cosmetics and you may be surprised by the number of hazardous ingredients in your medicine cabinet.

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