Sunscreens Exposed: 9 Surprising Truths

Waking Times: Sunscreens prevent sunburns, but beyond that simple fact surprisingly little is known about the safety and efficacy of these ubiquitous creams and sprays. EWG’s review of the latest research unearthed troubling facts that might tempt you to give up on sunscreens altogether. That’s not the right answer. Despite the unknowns about sunscreens’ efficacy, public health agencies still recommend using them, just not as your first line of defense against the sun. At EWG we use sunscreens, but we look for shade, wear protective clothing and avoid the noontime sun before we smear on the cream. Here are the surprising facts:

1. There’s no consensus that sunscreens prevent skin cancer.

2. There’s some evidence that sunscreens might increase the risk of the deadliest form of skin cancer for some people.

3. There are dozens of high-SPF products — but no proof they’re better.

4. Too little sun might be harmful, reducing the body’s vitamin D levels.

5. The common sunscreen ingredient vitamin A may speed development of cancer.

6. Free radicals and other skin-damaging byproducts of sunscreens.

7. Pick your sunscreen: nanomaterials or potential hormone disrupters.

8. Europe’s better sunscreens.

9. The FDA is still not protecting consumers...read more>>>....