The Environmental Working Group Names Safe Sunscreens

The Environmental Working Group, or EWG, makes it easier to choose your sunscreen with the release of its annual safe sunscreen guide.

The 2012 list shows that sunscreens made with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are safer than ones containing common chemical ingredients, such as oxybenzone. The list also suggests the best sunscreens should repel both harmful UVA and UVB rays, contain active ingredients that withstand the effects of the sun, and don’t contain a lot of toxic chemicals.

To coincide with the list's publication, the EWG has also released a sunscreen FAQ, which indicates how the group conducted its research and settled on its sunscreen favorites.

The EWG lists hundreds of various sunscreens, but you can’t go wrong if you choose one of its top five: the Adorable Baby Clear Baby Sunscreen Stick, the Seventh Generation Baby Sunscreen, the Sunbow Dora the Explorer Sunscreen, The Honest Company Sunscreen, and the TruBaby Water & Play Mineral Sunscreen.

It’s important to note though that applying sunscreen is just one way to stave off the effects of sun exposure though. Remember to limit your time outdoors in the middle of the day, when the sun is most damaging, and wear protective clothing while outside. Also be sure to apply your sunblock 30 minutes before going outside, and every two hours after that, to ensure it's most effective.

[Source: Inhabitots]
[Image Source: Joe Shlabotnik/Flickr]

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