Probably not something you want to think about when it's hot out, but according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the incidence of melanoma cases in both men and women has risen two percent every year from 2000 to 2009. Wearing sunscreen is an effective way to protect yourself, and aside from remembering to apply it, you also need to make sure the bottle you use is safe. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has recently released its 2013 Sunscreen Guide; in order to make the list, a sunscreen must be free of oxybenzone and retinyl palmitate, must be broad spectrum (protect against both UVA and UVB rays), and not have an SPF above 50, be in the form of a spray, or combined with bug repellent.
What's wrong with oxybenzone? Although it does a great job of absorbing ultraviolet rays, some studies show that it can be absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream. The EWG and toxicology experts believe this chemical can disrupt hormones, damage cells, and potentially lead to skin cancer. Other experts disagree, like the American Academy of Dermatology since oxybenzone has been FDA-approved since 1978 for use in children older than 6 months.
Keep reading to find out what else you need to consider when buying sunscreen, and for a list of the safest sunscreens on the market.
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