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October 12, 2008 10:18:02 AM CDT

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Many Sunscreens Don't Work

Posted Jul 3, 08 8:58 AM CDT in Science & Health 

(Newser) – That sunscreen you slather on this holiday weekend may be worthless at protecting you from sun damage, an environmental research group claims, and may contain unsafe chemicals. Of 900 sunscreens tested, only 15% met the group's criteria for safety and effectiveness by providing broad-spectrum protection (from both UVA and UVB rays), remaining stable in sunlight, and containing only active ingredients considered safe, WebMD reports.

Among the products that flunked the test were top-sellers from Coppertone, Banana Boat, and Neutrogena. Here’s what the Environmental Working Group suggests to keep you safe in the sun:

  • Keys Soap Solar Rx Therapeutic Sunblock, SPF 30
  • Trukid Sunny Days Facestick Mineral Sunscreen UVA/UVB Broad Spectrum, SPF 30+
  • California Baby Sunblock Stick No Fragrance, SPF 30+
  • Badger Sunscreen, SPF 30
  • Marie Veronique Skin Therapy Sun Serum
  • Lavera Sunscreen Neutral, SPF 40
  • Vanicream Sunscreen, SPF 35
  • UV Natural Sunscreen, SPF 30+
  • Sun Science Sport Formula, SPF 30
  • Soleo Organics Sunscreen all natural Sunscreen, SPF 30+

Source WebMD

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United States women's national soccer team players apply sunscreen before the start of practice.   (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
An environmental group says sunscreens don't live up to their claims.   (AP Photo/John Russell)
Scotland's Paul Lawrie applies sunscreen during practice for the British Open Golf Championship at Carnoustie, Scotland, Tuesday July 17, 2007.   (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)
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