Study Names Safest Sunscreens

By Dan Estabrook - July 11, 2008 (TNN) With the summer vacation season upon us, a new study from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) found 4 out of 5 sunscreens offer inadequate protection from the sun or contain ingredients with significant safety concerns. The group investigated 952 name-brand sunscreens and found many leading brands the worst offenders.  Part of the problem is that the Food and Drug Administration has never finalized comprehensive sunscreen safety standards since drafting them 30 years ago.  The study did identify 143 products that present minimal health risks to users.  They are listed here.  These safer products represent only 15% of 952 products analyzed.  The study deemed them to block both UVA and UVB radiation, remained stable in sunlight, and containing few if any ingredients with significant known or suspected health hazards.  Many consumers trust claims on sunscreen bottles but this study dismantles many manufacturer claims. As we all pay attention to keeping the earth green, junk mail out of our mailboxes, and eating organic, don't forget to take care of your skin this summer.  It's one of our most important assets.