Scientists issue urgent warning about certain sunscreens: Potential health harms

It’s time to screen your sunscreen. A new report from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) reviewed more than 2,000 SPF products sold in the US, finding that nearly 80% of them failed to meet its criteria for safety, health and effectiveness.“Wearing any sunscreen is much more important and offers better sun protection for your skin than not applying anything.But not all sunscreens are created equal,” said Dr.

David Andrews, acting chief science officer for EWG. So before you hit the beach, here’s a breakdown of what might be lurking in your sunscreen bottle.Don’t get burned by the sun — or your SPF — this summer.Spray sunscreens may seem like a no-fuss way to stay protected, but they could come with some hidden risks.Surveys show most Americans prefer lotion, but aerosol sprays still account for 26% of the US sunscreen market, according to the EWG report. The organization has raised concerns about the potential risks of inhaling tiny particles of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, two common ingredients in spray sunscreens.While these minerals effectively provide protection, don’t degrade under the sun, and are generally considered safe, inhaling them can pose respiratory risks.The small particles are difficult for the lungs to clear, increasing the chances they’ll enter the bloodstream.There’s another big concern: benzene, a known carcinogen.

This chemical was found recently in several aerosol sunscreens, prompting recalls due to its potential health risks.Short-term exposure to benzene can cause dizziness, drowsiness and even unconsciousness, while long-term exposure could lead to bone marrow damage, anemia and an increased risk of cancer, particularly leukemia.The EWG report also sounded alarms about undisclosed fragrances in sunscreens, which leave consumers “in the dark” about what’s really in their products.The group found that 36% of the sunscreens it reviewed contained fragrance blends, which can include a mix of unlisted scent...