"Disappointing Results: 80% of Sunscreens Found Lacking in Safety and Effectiveness"

US Environmental Group Releases 'Sunscreen Guide'

"Only 550 Out of 2,784 Products Meet Standards"

A survey has revealed that a significant number of sunscreens sold in the United States fall short of standards in terms of both safety and UV protection effectiveness. Among the products examined, only about 20% were recognized for both safety and effectiveness.

According to CNN on the 19th (local time), the U.S. nonprofit environmental organization Environmental Working Group (EWG) released its "2026 Sunscreen Guide."

A survey revealed that a significant number of sunscreens sold in the United States fall short of the standards in terms of safety and UV protection effectiveness. Getty Images

According to the data released by EWG, only 550 out of 2,784 products surveyed met the criteria for safety and effectiveness.

EWG's criteria for recommended products included blocking both UVA and UVB rays, not being in spray or powder form, and avoiding exaggerated labeling of SPF above 50+.

A survey revealed that a significant number of sunscreens sold in the United States fall short of standards in terms of safety and ultraviolet protection effectiveness. Getty Images

The report explained that a higher sun protection factor (SPF) number does not necessarily mean a significant increase in actual effectiveness. While SPF 100+ products are marketed as blocking 99% of UVB rays, SPF 50+ products also provide about 98% protection.

The report also pointed out that some products may have inflated sun protection numbers compared to their actual performance. According to a peer-reviewed paper by EWG researchers, sunscreens offered only about one-quarter of the labeled UVA protection and 59% of the labeled UVB protection on average.

EWG stated that its recommended products exclude retinyl palmitate (a vitamin A derivative), potential carcinogens, ingredients that may cause skin irritation, and substances of concern for reproductive toxicity.

The photo is not related to the specific content of the article. Pixabay

Among the 550 recommended products, 497 were mineral-based sunscreens containing ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. EWG explained that mineral sunscreens reflect and block UV rays on the skin’s surface and are relatively less likely to cause skin irritation or toxicity.

On the other hand, chemical sunscreens have been criticized because some ingredients can be absorbed into the body through the skin. In 2019, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced research findings that six major chemical ingredients—including oxybenzone and homosalate—can exceed blood safety limits after just one day of use.

Oxybenzone, in particular, is cited as a potential endocrine disruptor. The report stated that it is also associated with environmental issues such as coral bleaching and genetic damage to marine life. For these reasons, its use has been banned in certain areas, including the state of Hawaii in the U.S. and parts of Thailand.

However, the industry pushed back against EWG's evaluation methods. The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) told CNN, "The claim that only a minority of products are safe and effective could discourage sunscreen use itself and negatively impact public health."

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