About the
EWG Sun Safety Campaign

Americans do not do enough to protect their skin from sun damage and prevent skin cancer. Because we are stronger together, Environmental Working Group, forward-thinking companies and concerned citizens are teaming up to make a difference.

About the EWG Sun Safety Campaign

Practice Smart Sun

Skin cancer is the most common form of all cancers in the U.S. Rates of new melanoma cases have tripled over the last 40 years. Yet many Americans behave as if it can't happen to them.

Fewer than one in three adults report using sunscreen frequently. According to a national surveys conducted by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, even fewer say they routinely seek shade, wear a hat or cover up with long sleeves.

It's critical that we bring sun safety to top of mind and reverse the escalating trend lines. Because we are stronger together, Environmental Working Group, forward-thinking companies and concerned citizens are teaming up to make a difference.

Our manifesto:

Americans do not do enough to protect their skin from sun damage and prevent skin cancer.
Because of drastically rising rates of skin cancer, we need to educate Americans on the importance of sun safety - and change their behavior.
Sun Safety isn't just about sunscreen. The best defenses against getting too much harmful ultraviolet radiation are protective clothing, sunglasses, shade and timing.
Sunscreen ingredients matter. Sunscreens must offer true broad spectrum protection from sunburn and other types of skin damage but must not pose other potential health risks.
High-SPF claims are misleading. A label higher than SPF 50 can tempt people to stay in the sun too long.
Americans must be encouraged to check their skin regularly for new moles that are tender or growing and to see their dermatologist.

Other countries, notably Australia, have raised public consciousness about sun safety. They have made sun protection as routine as wearing a seat belt. It's time to do the same in the U.S.