Only One Fourth of Sunscreens Deliver Safe and Effective Protection in the US

Strategic Insights -

A new report reveals that out of more than 2,200 sunscreens available in the United States, only one fourth deliver safe and effective protection against the sun's harmful rays. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) analyzed the products, ranking the best sunscreens for babies and children, daily use, lip balms, and recreational activities. The EWG's 2025 Sunscreen Guide advises consumers to opt for mineral-based sunscreens over chemical ones, as they are safer for marine ecosystems and human health.

Key Takeaways:

  • Only 25% of sunscreens on store shelves in the US provide safe and effective protection against UVA and UVB rays.
  • The EWG analyzed 2,217 products, recommending 43% that use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as safer alternatives.
  • Oxybenzone, a chemical sunscreen ingredient, is now found in only 9% of products, down from 70% in 2007.
  • Hawaii, Key West, Florida, the US Virgin Islands, Bonnaire, Aruba, and Palau have banned oxybenzone, citing coral reef devastation and potential human health risks.
  • Mineral-based sunscreens are safer for marine ecosystems, with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide not appearing to harm marine life.
  • Some mineral products contain chemical "boosters" that may compromise consumer safety and raise the sun protection factor (SPF).
  • The FDA has yet to take action on the EWG's 2016 letter regarding SPF boosters, despite the agency's proposed updated rules for sunscreen safety in 2019.
  • Aerosol sunscreens pose inhalation risks and are difficult to apply evenly, with 26% of tested sunscreens being sprays.
  • The FDA has proposed capping SPF at 60, but this rule has not been implemented.

Statistics:

  • Only 545 sunscreens (25% of the total) offer safe and effective protection.
  • 43% of tested products use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as safer alternatives.
  • 70% of non-mineral sunscreens in 2007 contained oxybenzone.
  • Oxybenzone is now found in only 9% of products.
  • 26% of tested sunscreens were aerosol sprays.
  • 60 SPF is the proposed cap on sunscreen products.

Sources:

  • CNN (no date).
  • Environmental Working Group (no date)