A new report reveals that not all sunscreens are created equally - and some may not be as effective as they claim to be.
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) evaluated more than 2,200 sun protection factor (SPF) products, in an effort to highlight the top-rated options for consumers while pushing the Food and Drug Administration to modernize its standards.
EWG analyzed a product's efficacy based on its ingredients, its UVA and UVB protection values, and its sunscreen stability or how quickly the ingredient breaks down in the sun.
Of 51 products tested, the average sunscreen reduced ultraviolet exposure by only half of what would be expected based on its SPF. In addition, only 18 out of 51 products met the stricter UVA protection standards required in Europe.
The list of sunscreen options that met the company's standards included brands by True Botanicals, Solara Suncare, Well People and Crunchi.
But Jilly Senk, an associate science analyst at EWG, said the list of options that meet the company's standards continues to grow.
What they're saying:
"One big shift we saw is that 43% of products now use the mineral active ingredients zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are generally recognized as safe and effective by the FDA. That's a big jump from just 17% back in 2007," she told FOX Local.
She continued: "We've seen a big drop in the use of some concerning ingredients, like oxybenzone and vitamin A. And the popularity of mineral sunscreens is increasing in the marketplace. This is great news for public health."
Oxybenzone, which has been linked to hormone disruption and reproductive issues, showed up in 9% of non-mineral sunscreens EWG looked at this year. That's way down from 70% in 2016.
Big picture view:
According to the EWG, It's important to use a sunscreen that provides balanced UVA and UVB protection. Several sunscreens protect against UVB rays, which causes sunburn, but not as effectively against UVA rays.
UVA exposure is linked to aging, immune suppression and a higher skin cancer risk.
Spray sunscreens also can raise red flags due to inhalation concerns and potential benzene contamination, which is a known carcinogen. In addition, it is more difficult to apply an even layer of spray sunscreen on the body, which impacts the level of protection that is provided, the company noted.
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One way to ensure you choose a safe and effective sunscreen is to look for the EWG Verified mark.
"These sunscreens are free from chemicals of concern, have strong UVA and UVB protection, and are fully transparent about their formulations," Senk added. Here are the sunscreens that have been verified.
Still, Senk noted that the it's important to wear sunscreen, and any sunscreen is better than none.
"The best sunscreen is the one you'll use consistently and reapply often," she said.
It's also important to wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protection. Also, find shade whenever possible, and avoid intense sun exposure during the peak hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Dig deeper:
Last month, Consumer Reports tested dozens of sunscreens to evaluate which ones were the best at blocking UVA and UVB rays and for how long.
Testers noted the smell and feel because no one wants to be greasy and gloppy while enjoying the outdoors. They also crunched the numbers to find which ones wouldn't break the bank.
For lotion sunscreens, Coppertone Water Babies Lotion in SPF 50 came out on top, followed by Everyday Humans Oh my Bod! Lotion in SPF 50 and La Roche-Posay's Anthelios Melt-In Lotion in SPF 60.