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News Coverage

Sunscreens In Unflattering Light

ABC 6 Philadelphia
Published June 18, 2007

A new report contends most sunscreens don't do enough to block harmful rays, or could contain substances with potential safety problems. The Environmental Working Group analyzed the ingredient lists on more than 700 products, and concluded that more than half contain substances that break down after just minutes in the sun, no matter what their SPF rating. The EWG says just 128 of the 785 sunscreens studies offer "very good sun protection, with ingredients that present minimal health risks." The group also questioned the safety of ingredients like oxybenzone, which some studies say acts like the hormone estrogen in the body. EWG didn't test sunscreens in a lab, but checked each brand's ingredients against some 400 safety and efficacy studies. A spokesman for the cosmetics industry called the findings a "disservice" because none of the products was actually tested in a lab.
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