Breaking: 75% of Sunscreens Sold in the USA Are Deemed Unsafe for Use

We’ve always 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 actually 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? Let’s 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 is far from reality. According to the latest report by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), an alarming 75% of sunscreens available in the U.S. market do not meet safety and efficacy standards. While these sunscreens may technically protect against sunburn, many contain chemicals that fail to offer broad-spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB rays. Even worse, some of these 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 cause long-term health concerns. Additionally, these same ingredients pose significant environmental hazards, particularly 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 may harm both 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 is 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 concerns 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.

Why the U.S. Sunscreen Industry is Behind

The U.S. sunscreen industry is lagging behind other countries in terms of safety regulations. 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. Countries like South Korea and Australia have been at the forefront of sunscreen innovation, prioritizing public safety with advanced formulations that combine effective UV protection with skin-friendly ingredients.

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.

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 and meets strict safety standards.

3. Avoid Harmful Chemicals
   Always read the ingredient list on sunscreen products before purchasing. If you spot any of the chemicals listed above, choose a safer alternative.

4. Use Sunscreen in Combination with Other Sun Protection Measures
   Sunscreen should not be your only line of defense. Use protective clothing, seek shade, and wear sunglasses to minimize UV exposure.

5. Stay Informed and Educate Others
   Follow trusted organizations like the Environmental Working Group and the FDA for updates on sunscreen safety. Sharing this information can help others make better choices.

Protect Your Skin, Protect the Environment

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 health. Your skin—and the environment—deserve better. Making informed choices today can lead to a healthier, safer tomorrow.