Only a small percentage of sunscreens meet leading safety and efficacy standards, according to a recent report.
A recent report by the Environmental Working Group found that only about 20% of SPF products met its rigorous safety criteria in 2026. This means that many sunscreens may not be protecting users as well as they think. Sunscreen is a key aspect of sun protection, especially in the summertime.
Safety Criteria
The Environmental Working Group's report found that 550 out of 2,784 SPF products met its safety criteria. Broad-spectrum SPF 30 to 50, proper application, and regular reapplication are the keys to effective sun protection. According to Tanya Evans, MD, sunscreen is still one of the most effective tools to reduce sunburn, photoaging, and skin cancer risk.
Sunscreen Ingredients
There have been no fully approved new UV-blocking ingredients for sunscreen since 1999. The Food and Drug Administration proposed classifying bemotrizinol as a safe and effective sunscreen ingredient in late 2025. Mineral sunscreens usually contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and sit on the skin to physically reflect UV rays away, whereas chemical sunscreens absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat.
Choosing a Sunscreen
When choosing a sunscreen, it's recommended to keep it simple and focus on the basics. Look for broad-spectrum protection, SPF 30 to 50, and use water resistance when swimming or sweating. Opt for a texture or formulation that will be used consistently. Sensitive skin or rosacea-prone people may benefit from zinc oxide-based formulas.
Key points
- Only 20% of SPF products met the Environmental Working Group's safety criteria in 2026.
- 550 out of 2,784 SPF products met the safety criteria.
- Broad-spectrum SPF 30 to 50 is sufficient for most people.
- Mineral sunscreens usually contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
- There have been no fully approved new UV-blocking ingredients for sunscreen since 1999.
- The FDA proposed classifying bemotrizinol as a safe and effective sunscreen ingredient in late 2025.
This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Healthline.
