Scientists say that sunscreen products from known brands like Neutrogena, Banana Boat, and Coppertone don't really deliver in terms of skin protection and even contain skin-irritating chemicals.
In a research study conducted just in time for summer, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) released a guide on sunscreen use, investigating over 1,700 sun protection products such as sunscreen, lip balms, moisturizers and skin creams.
The study states that 80% of the products offer "inferior sun protection or contain worrisome ingredients like Oxybenzone and Vitamin A." Oxybenzone disrupts the body's hormonal system, and there is also a question on the effects of Vitamin A on sun sensitivity.
Time reports that among the skin products used in the study is Neutrogena, which claims to provide skin protection from sun and irritation. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) contradicts the promise of "SPF 70" and "SPF 100," saying that products can only reach the SPF 50 level.
The European Commission's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety adds that it even contains a harmful preservative called methylisothiazolinone.
Consumer Reports also state that one-third of the 34 products they tested "fell short of the SPF claim on their labels."
Aside from Neutrogena, EWG listed other ineffective skin products in a database where consumers can easily check if the items they purchased actually worked.
With the damaging effects of the heat coming in the summer, researchers advise people to also wear clothes that protect the skin from the sun's UV rays, go out early morning or late in the afternoon, seek shade while out and wear sunglasses, in addition to applying sunscreen.
In addition, CBC Toronto also reports a similar sunscreen guide, sharing Dr. Sonya Cook's advice. "I think it's a good idea every year, do a little spring cleaning of your sunscreens, and toss out the ones from last year and start fresh," according to the dermatologist and lecturer at the University of Toronto.
These studies, however, do not encourage people from using the mentioned sunscreen and other skin-protecting products.
