Study Says Most Sunscreens Don’t Protect Well Enough

WSYR 9 Syracuse NY
Published June 20, 2007

Summer officially starts Thursday, and its time to stock up on the sunscreen. But a new study of 800 brands, found most did not provide adequate protection. Even on a cooler day like Wednesday, the UV index was still a seven out of eleven, so you still need to protect your family with sunblock. But the Environmental Working Group says most sunscreens break down after 15 minutes. “This study is very significant and will make me look more closely at sunscreens I've recommended in the past,” says Fayetteville dermatologist Dr. William Patrick. He says once sunblock breaks down, you may not burn but you're still accumulating long-term skin damage. The study also raised questions about companies' claims. Like one, Ocean Potion, that claims it’s water proof and anti-aging. Dr. Patrick says, “These manufacturers don't always mean what they say; don't think anything will last all day.” Another note of caution from this study: some of the suncreens absorb into the blood and are linked to toxic effects. Part of the problem is the Food and Drug Administration does not have a rating system for sunscreen, but they are working on it. When shopping for a sunscreen, Dr. Patrick says the most important things to look for are, the ingredients, the manufacturer, and an SPF of at least 15. We have links to the study and the ratings of best and worst sunscreens: Study Summary Study’s Best Sunscreens Study’s Worst Sunscreens Copyright 2007 CLEAR CHANNEL COMMUNICATIONS