New report finds few sunscreens meet safety standards
New Report Reveals Limited Sunscreen Safety on Store Shelves
New report finds few sunscreens meet - As summer approaches, many consumers are preparing to replenish their sunscreen supplies. However, a recent study by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) highlights that the majority of products available today fall short of providing both safe and effective sun protection, according to their 2026 Guide to Sunscreens. This updated report incorporates a newly approved sunscreen ingredient by the FDA and expands the list of tested products to include more options than ever before.
Annual Assessment Highlights Persistent Safety Gaps
Now in its 20th year, the EWG’s annual assessment analyzed 2,990 sunscreens and found that only 597—approximately 20%—meet the organization’s rigorous standards for safety and efficacy. The report emphasizes that these products must offer protection against both UVA and UVB rays, which are known to cause DNA damage and accelerate skin aging. The new edition also includes categories tailored to specific needs, such as baby and child-friendly options, recreational sunscreens for sports or beach activities, and daily-use formulations like moisturizers with SPF and lip balms with sun protection.
According to the report, the inclusion of SPF levels above 50+ and terms like “waterproof” on packaging are now restricted. These changes follow the FDA’s decision to approve a new ingredient and adjust marketing claims to ensure they are scientifically justified. While higher SPF products may seem more effective, the study notes that there is little difference in performance between a budget-friendly 50+ SPF sunscreen and pricier options that claim to block 99% of UVB rays. In fact, the report states that even a cheaper 50+ SPF sunscreen can achieve 98% protection, making cost a more significant factor for many users.
SPF Claims and Label Accuracy Under Scrutiny
The report’s findings reveal a discrepancy between advertised protection and actual performance. A peer-reviewed study conducted by EWG scientists uncovered that on average, sunscreens provide only 25% of the UVA protection and 59% of the UVB protection listed on their labels. This suggests that some products may overstate their effectiveness, particularly in the realm of UVA rays, which are linked to long-term skin damage and skin cancer.
One of the key recommendations from the report is the avoidance of retinyl palmitate, a form of vitamin A often used in sunscreens for its antioxidant properties. Despite its benefits for reducing wrinkles, retinyl palmitate can be harmful when exposed to sunlight, prompting dermatologists to advise caution with its use. The report notes that retinyl palmitate was present in about 40% of products in 2010 but has since declined to just 3% in 2026, a significant improvement for consumer safety.
Mineral-Based Sunscreens Lead the Way
The majority of the 597 recommended products are mineral-based, utilizing ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These sunscreens work by sitting on the skin’s surface and physically deflecting UV rays, which minimizes absorption into the dermis and reduces the risk of skin irritation or toxicity. While traditional mineral sunscreens were once criticized for leaving a chalky residue, modern formulations have largely eliminated this issue through innovations such as tinted options and improved textures.
Mineral sunscreens are often preferred for their non-chemical approach, making them a safer choice for sensitive skin. Unlike chemical sunscreens, which penetrate the skin to absorb UV radiation, mineral-based products create a physical barrier. This method is particularly beneficial for children, individuals with skin conditions, and those seeking a more natural alternative.
Chemical Sunscreens Raise Health and Environmental Concerns
Chemical sunscreens, which are designed to soak into the skin, have been under closer examination for their potential health effects. In 2019, the FDA identified six commonly used chemical ingredients that can enter the bloodstream at unsafe levels within a single day of application. These substances remain in the body for days after use, raising concerns about long-term exposure and its impact on human health.
Among these, homosalate and oxybenzone have been flagged for their persistence in the bloodstream and their role as endocrine disrupters. Homosalate is now being regulated in the European Union as a potential hormone-interfering chemical, while oxybenzone has been linked to birth defects, thyroid hormone changes, and skin allergies. Studies have found oxybenzone in over 97% of U.S. urine samples, indicating widespread human exposure. Additionally, oxybenzone is banned in several regions, including Hawaii, Key West, Florida, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Thailand, due to its harmful effects on marine ecosystems. These include coral bleaching, reef death, and genetic damage to aquatic life.
The 2026 report also highlights a shift in the sunscreen market, with the use of oxybenzone dropping from 70% in previous years to just 5% today. This decline reflects growing awareness of its risks and a trend toward more eco-friendly alternatives. However, the report warns that chemical sunscreens still pose challenges, both in terms of their impact on the environment and the potential for systemic absorption in the body.
Key Takeaways for Consumers
The EWG’s findings serve as a guide for selecting sunscreens that prioritize safety without compromising effectiveness. The report recommends avoiding products containing retinyl palmitate and other potentially harmful chemicals, while favoring mineral-based options that offer reliable protection. For those who prefer chemical sunscreens, the report advises careful selection based on ingredient lists and adherence to updated FDA guidelines.
As the sun protection landscape evolves, the report underscores the importance of staying informed about product ingredients and their health implications. Whether choosing a daily moisturizer with SPF or a recreational sunscreen for outdoor activities, consumers are encouraged to look beyond marketing claims and focus on verified safety standards. With the right choices, it’s possible to maintain effective sun protection while minimizing risks to both personal health and the environment.
“Retinyl palmitate is part of the retinoid family that dermatologists recommend to fight wrinkles and other signs of aging. Those products come with warnings not to expose skin to the sun,” said Alexa Friedman, a senior scientist at the EWG. “In 2010, about 40% of products contained retinyl palmitate,” Friedman added. “Today that’s dropped down to 3%, which is good news for consumers.”
With the increasing availability of safe, effective alternatives, the report aims to empower shoppers to make informed decisions. By highlighting products that meet stringent criteria, the EWG hopes to drive a shift toward safer sun protection practices, ensuring that both skin health and environmental sustainability are prioritized in the marketplace.