There lot's of information on sunscreen labels, but what does it all mean?
Which sunscreen ingredients are safe for your family, and for the environment?
We know things like "broad spectrum" and SPF numbers are important, but what do they actually mean?
Common Questions About Sunscreen
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What Does "Broad Spectrum" Mean?
Sunscreens that offer protection against both UVA and UVB radiation can advertise “Broad Spectrum and SPF 15” (or higher) on their labels.
The Sun's Ultraviolet Rays
The sun produces both ultraviolet B radiation (UVB) and ultraviolet A radiation (UVA).
Both UVA and UVB can cause premature aging, sunburn, and skin cancer. However, sunburn is caused primarily by UVB radiation.
Broad Spectrum Labeling
Any sunscreen that does not carry the “Broad Spectrum” label or that has a “Broad Spectrum” label with an SPF value from 2 to 14 may not adequately protect against UVA, and will come with this warning:
Skin Cancer/Skin Aging Alert: Spending time in the sun increases your risk of skin cancer and early skin aging. This product has been shown only to help prevent sunburn, not skin cancer or early skin aging.
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How High an SPF Do I Need?
The FDA is considering a regulation that calls for all sunscreens with an SPF value of 50 or higher to be labeled simply as “SPF 50+” and leave it at that.
This is because there’s not enough evidence to indicate that SPFs over 50 have any additional protection.
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What About Moisture Resistance?
Any product with a water-resistant claim must include the duration of expected effectiveness—either 40 or 80 minutes.
Manufacturers can no longer claim that their product is “waterproof” or “sweatproof” or that it’s a “sunblock.”
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What Are All These Ingredients?
We have a great article on choosing a natural sunscreen that's safe for you and the planet, but here's some quick tips:
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Look for Skin Soothers
Look for sunscreens that contain beeswax, plant oils, and plant butters. These natural ingredients offer the extra benefits of moisturizing your skin and providing antioxidants.
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Choose a Mineral Base
Look for lotion or cream-based sunscreens with a natural mineral base like zinc oxide, which provides UVA protection by deflecting the sun’s rays.
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Beware Common Issues with Chemicals
- Avoid the ingredient oxybenzone, which may interfere with hormones.
- Use caution if you purchase sprayable sunscreen. Spray it onto your hands first, never directly onto the face.
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