Health experts warn of the need to pay attention to the type of sunscreen used, given the proliferation of products that may not provide the advertised protection or contain worrying ingredients.
According to a new report that analyzed 2,784 sunscreen products, only 597 products, or about 20%, were deemed safe and effective according to the standards of the Environmental Working Group (EWG), a non-profit organization concerned with health and environmental issues.
In contrast, the remaining 80% were not necessarily classified as dangerous, but they did not meet the group's criteria, either because they contained ingredients of concern, had poor protection against ultraviolet radiation (especially UVA), used spray formulations, or made protection claims that the organization considered inaccurate.
The report raised concerns about three common ingredients in some sunscreens: oxybenzone, octinoxate, and homosalate, which scientific studies have linked to hormonal disruptions and potential effects on the reproductive system and growth.
He also warned of the presence of undisclosed perfumes in some products, as they may contain allergenic substances, substances suspected of affecting hormones, or even substances suspected of being carcinogenic.
The report also noted that spray sunscreens may carry additional risks, as their particles can be inhaled, they may not be evenly distributed on the skin, and some have previously been withdrawn from the market after being found to be contaminated with highly toxic benzene.
In contrast, the report concluded that mineral sunscreens, especially those containing zinc oxide, are the safest option, with brands such as Badger, Blue Lizard and Babo Botanicals receiving high ratings.
Despite these concerns, experts emphasize that sunscreen remains an essential and effective way to prevent sunburn, premature aging, and reduce the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, stressing that the problem lies not in using it, but in choosing the right type and how to use it.
The Environmental Working Group adopted specific criteria for evaluating products, including: the safety of the components, the level of protection from UVB rays, protection from UVA rays, the balance between them, and the stability of the product under sunlight.
According to the report, only 62 products received official approval from the group, due to their adherence to its strictest standards of transparency and safety.
He also noted that many of the approved products rely on mineral formulations that provide broad-spectrum protection and are free of substances classified as concerning by the organization's assessments.
The report also sparked controversy over sunscreens with very high protection factors (SPF 70–100+), noting that the actual difference in protection between them and lower levels is limited.
Experts warned that relying on high SPF numbers could lead to reduced reuse or increased sun exposure, which raises risks rather than reducing them.
The report also criticized the discrepancies in sunscreen test results between laboratories, which could lead to significant variations in the evaluation of the same product.
In conclusion, the experts and the group recommend relying on mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide, along with using creams instead of sprays, to ensure better protection and reduce potential risks.
