The EWG has released its 2013 Sunscreen Guide!

It’s that time of year again … the Environmental Working Group (EWG) has released their latest and greatest Sunscreen Guide, helping us non-scientists navigate the sunscreen aisle and choose the safest and most effective options.

Key points from the EWG

Last year, we gave the rundown on the EWG’s 2012 findings. But since the body of research about sunscreen is always growing, and companies are trying to improve their products, it’s time for a recap!

• The EWG restated the importance of checking our skin for moles (and having suspicious ones  checked by a pro), covering up with clothes and hats, wearing sunglasses, staying in the shade, and staying out of the sun midday.
• The news hasn’t changed for vitamin A-containing sunscreens, high SPFs (50+), oxybenzone, or sprays and powders—they’re all no-nos with health major concerns.
• This year, combined sunscreen/bug repellents, sunscreen towelettes, and tanning oils also made the “no” list.
• For what to choose, keep it simple. Opt for a creme SPF between 15 and 50 without the harmful ingredients mentioned above.
• More sunscreens than ever before fall into the “safe” or recommended categories, meaning that change is happening and companies are evolving, based on consumer demand.

Check out the complete EWG guide. They break things down into categories so we can find the best lip balms, makeup, and moisturizers with SPF, in addition to good ’ole sunscreen.

For more info on staying safe in the sun, check out our recent article “Smart Summer Skin Care."

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