Breaking: 75% of Sunscreen Sold in the USA Is Deemed Unsafe for Use

We’ve all been told that sunscreen is our best defense against the sun’s harmful rays. But what if the very product we trust to protect us is doing more harm than good? A recent report from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) has revealed a shocking truth: a staggering 75% of sunscreens sold in the U.S. fail to meet safety standards, putting our health at risk. With so many options on the market, how can we be sure we’re choosing the right one? We’ll uncover why the majority of sunscreens may not be as safe as you think—and what you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones.

The Problem with Most Sunscreens

When it comes to sunscreen, most people assume that any product labeled “SPF” is a safe bet. Unfortunately, that assumption might not be accurate. According to the latest report by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), an eye-opening 75% of sunscreens on the U.S. market don’t live up to their claims.

While these sunscreens may technically protect against sunburn, many contain chemicals that fail to offer broad-spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB rays. Worse yet, some ingredients are linked to serious health risks, including hormone disruption and skin allergies.

These problematic chemicals, such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, and homosalate, are still widely used in sunscreens, despite growing evidence that they can be absorbed into the body and may cause long-term health concerns. And it doesn’t stop there—these same ingredients can also pose significant environmental hazards, especially to marine life, contributing to coral reef damage and ocean pollution.

Ingredients to Avoid

If you’re concerned about what’s going into your sunscreen, it’s essential to be aware of the ingredients that can potentially harm your health and the environment. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has highlighted several common sunscreen chemicals that should raise red flags. Here are some of the most problematic:

Oxybenzone

One of the most widely used chemical sunscreen ingredients, oxybenzone is linked to hormone disruption. It has been shown to be absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream, potentially causing adverse reproductive effects. Studies also suggest it may lower testosterone levels in adolescent boys. Oxybenzone is not only harmful to humans, but it’s also a major contributor to coral bleaching, leading to environmental damage in marine ecosystems.

Octinoxate

Octinoxate, another common UV filter, is known for its ability to disrupt hormone function, particularly affecting thyroid hormones and reproductive systems. Like oxybenzone, it can be absorbed through the skin and has been found in blood samples at concentrations far exceeding safety levels. Octinoxate is also harmful to aquatic life, contributing to the decline of coral reefs and marine biodiversity.

Homosalate

Homosalate is a chemical filter used in many sunscreens, but it raises concern due to its potential to disrupt the endocrine system. Studies suggest that homosalate can penetrate the skin and affect hormone levels, which is especially troubling given its widespread use in products designed for daily application. The FDA has yet to provide sufficient safety data on its long-term use.

Octisalate

Although often considered less harmful, octisalate is still absorbed into the bloodstream at levels higher than what is deemed safe by the FDA. It can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, and, like other chemical filters, it may pose risks to the environment, particularly aquatic ecosystems.

Octocrylene

Octocrylene is a synthetic UV filter that not only absorbs into the skin but also has a troubling environmental footprint. This ingredient has been linked to hormone disruption, and some forms of octocrylene are contaminated with benzophenone, a known carcinogen. It’s also toxic to marine life, making it a double threat to both human health and the environment.

These ingredients don’t just stay on the surface of your skin. Studies show that many of them are absorbed into the bloodstream, where they can persist for days or even weeks. With repeated use, this exposure could pose serious long-term health risks, from hormonal imbalances to potential cancer risks. And while many of these chemicals are banned or restricted in other countries, they remain widespread in U.S. sunscreens.

Why the U.S. Sunscreen Industry is Behind

In the U.S., sunscreen ingredients are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), but the approval process for new ingredients is cumbersome and outdated. The last time the FDA approved a new sunscreen ingredient was over 20 years ago. This slow pace means that sunscreen formulas used in the U.S. are often outdated compared to those sold in other countries. For instance, the European Union has approved over 30 active ingredients for use in sunscreens, offering consumers a broader range of safer, more effective options. Meanwhile, the U.S. is still reliant on ingredients that may not provide adequate protection or may pose health risks.

Part of the problem lies in the lack of urgency within the sunscreen industry and the FDA. Despite growing evidence that many common sunscreen ingredients are unsafe, sunscreen manufacturers have failed to provide the necessary safety data requested by the FDA. The FDA has repeatedly asked for more information on the safety of these ingredients, but the industry has dragged its feet on providing comprehensive testing, leaving the public in the dark about the risks associated with these chemicals.

In the meantime, other countries have moved ahead with safer and more innovative sunscreen formulations. Many European and Asian countries have already embraced mineral-based sunscreens as a safer alternative to chemical ones, and they have pioneered the use of new, less harmful chemical filters that are both effective and safe. The U.S. has fallen behind, forcing American consumers to rely on sunscreens that may not provide the best protection—or the best ingredients—for their skin.

The delay in updating sunscreen regulations means U.S. consumers are at risk of using products that could be harmful to their health. Worse, without updated FDA guidelines, sunscreen manufacturers are free to continue using ingredients that are banned or restricted in other countries. This regulatory gap has not only created confusion for consumers but also placed them at risk of exposure to potentially toxic chemicals on a daily basis.

What You Can Do

While the sunscreen industry and the FDA slowly work to address safety concerns, there are steps you can take right now to ensure you’re protecting yourself without compromising your health. Here are some actionable tips to help you make safer sunscreen choices:

1. Choose Mineral-Based Sunscreens

Mineral sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens, are made with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These ingredients sit on top of your skin and act as a barrier, reflecting harmful UV rays rather than absorbing them. Unlike chemical sunscreens, mineral options are less likely to cause skin irritation or disrupt hormones. They also don’t contain the potentially harmful ingredients found in many chemical sunscreens.

Look for sunscreens that are labeled as “broad-spectrum,” meaning they protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Mineral sunscreens tend to provide excellent broad-spectrum protection, making them a safe choice for long-term use.

2. Check for EWG Verified Sunscreens

One of the easiest ways to ensure your sunscreen is safe is by looking for the EWG Verified label. This mark indicates that the product has been rigorously tested by the Environmental Working Group and meets their strict safety standards. EWG Verified sunscreens do not contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone, octinoxate, or homosalate, and they provide broad-spectrum protection against the sun’s harmful rays.

3. Avoid Sunscreens with Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, and Other Harmful Chemicals

As discussed earlier, certain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate are linked to hormone disruption and environmental damage. Make a habit of reading the ingredient list on sunscreen products before purchasing. If you spot any of these harmful ingredients, put the product back on the shelf and opt for one with safer alternatives.

4. Use Sunscreen in Combination with Other Sun Protection Measures

Sunscreen is an important tool in your sun safety routine, but it shouldn’t be your only line of defense. To maximize protection, combine sunscreen use with other sun safety practices:

• Seek Shade: Especially during peak sunlight hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), try to stay in shaded areas to avoid excessive sun exposure.
• Wear Protective Clothing: Light, long-sleeved shirts, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat can provide excellent coverage against UV rays.
• Wear Sunglasses: UV-blocking sunglasses protect your eyes from harmful rays and reduce the risk of cataracts and other eye issues.

5. Stay Informed and Educate Others

The sunscreen landscape is rapidly evolving, so staying informed about the latest research and regulations is crucial. Follow trusted organizations like the Environmental Working Group and the FDA for updates on sunscreen safety. Sharing this information with friends and family can help spread awareness and ensure that everyone makes safer choices when it comes to sun protection.

Protect Your Skin, Protect the Environment

As we’ve seen, not all sunscreens are created equal. While many sunscreen products claim to offer protection, a significant portion on the market contain harmful chemicals that may end up doing more harm than good. With 75% of U.S. sunscreens failing to meet safety standards, it’s essential to be vigilant when choosing the right product.

By opting for mineral-based sunscreens, checking for the EWG Verified label, and avoiding known harmful chemicals, you can make safer choices for your skin and your health. Remember, sunscreen is just one piece of the puzzle. Complement it with other sun protection methods like wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, and staying informed about the latest research.

Your skin—and the environment—deserve better. So, next time you’re picking up sunscreen, take a moment to read the ingredients and make sure you’re truly protecting yourself without compromising your health or the planet. Making informed choices today can lead to a healthier, safer tomorrow.