Millions of Americans preparing for beach outings are being advised to carefully check their sunscreen products, as a new report indicates that a significant majority may not be safe or effective. The Environmental Working Group (EWG), a nonprofit health and environmental advocacy organization, analyzed 2,784 SPF products and found that only 597, or approximately 20 percent, met their standards for human skin safety and protection against harmful sun rays.
The remaining 80 percent of products were not deemed inherently dangerous but failed to meet EWG's criteria due to ingredients of concern, insufficient UVA protection, the use of spray formulations, or claims the group considers misleading. The EWG's analysis, which reviewed research published between 2005 and 2025, evaluated products based on potential health risks of ingredients, protection against UVB and UVA rays, the balance between these protections, and product stability when exposed to sunlight.
EWG's report highlights concerns about specific ingredients commonly found in sunscreens, including oxybenzone, octinoxate, and homosalate. Studies have linked these chemicals to hormone disruption and potential reproductive and developmental effects. Oxybenzone, in particular, is described as a well-studied hormone disruptor found in human breast milk, blood, and urine. Octinoxate has also been linked to hormone disruption, while homosalate is regulated in the European Union as a potential endocrine disruptor that may interfere with hormonal, developmental, reproductive, neurological, or immune functions.
Beyond these specific chemicals, EWG also flagged undisclosed "fragrance" mixtures. These blends, often responsible for the characteristic "beachy" scent of many sunscreens, can contain potential allergens, hormone-disrupting chemicals, and even carcinogens, according to a 2025 paper cited by the EWG.
Spray sunscreens pose additional risks, including inhalation of aerosolized particles and uneven skin coverage. Some spray formulations have also faced recalls due to benzene contamination, a known carcinogen.
The report also expressed skepticism about ultra-high SPF labels, such as SPF 70, 80, and 100+. While these products may use ingredients to boost SPF numbers, the EWG suggests they do not significantly improve protection against UVA rays, which are linked to skin aging and cancer. For instance, SPF 50 blocks about 98 percent of UVB rays, while SPF 100 blocks 99 percent. The EWG warns that these high SPF claims can create a false sense of security, potentially leading individuals to stay in the sun longer and skip reapplication.
Furthermore, the EWG noted inconsistencies in how sunscreens are tested in the U.S., citing a peer-reviewed study of 51 sunscreens that found products delivered only 59 percent of their advertised UVB protection and 24 percent of implied UVA protection on average. Laboratory testing variations can also lead to widely different SPF ratings for the same product.
Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide emerged as the safest option in the EWG's assessment, with brands like Badger, Blue Lizard, and Babo Botanicals receiving high marks. These mineral-based sunscreens offer strong, balanced protection against both UVA and UVB rays, avoid concerning ingredients, and meet high standards for ingredient transparency and performance. The EWG recommends prioritizing these mineral formulations, along with lotions or sticks for reliable application, to avoid the risks associated with sprays.
Despite the concerns raised, dermatologists emphasize that sunscreen remains a crucial tool for reducing the risk of sunburn, photoaging, and skin cancer, including melanoma. The key message, experts advise, is not to avoid sunscreen but to choose and use it wisely.
Only 62 sunscreens out of the analyzed products earned EWG Verified status, signifying they meet the organization's strictest health and transparency requirements. These verified products are predominantly mineral-based.
As of 2026, the EWG estimates that 36 percent of sunscreens contain undisclosed fragrance blends.