Which sunscreens are best?
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Whether you're relaxing on the beach or enjoying the waves, it's critically important to protect yourself from the harmful effects of the sun.
Consumer Reports has tested 18 sunscreens, mostly sprays and lotions, from names like Banana Boat, Coppertone, Neutrogena and Aveeno.
"We test to see how well the sunscreens protect against two types of radiation- UVB, which causes sunburn, and UVA, which penetrates deeper, resulting in tanning and aging of the skin," said Nicole Sarrubbo of Consumer Reports.
Both types contribute to skin cancer, so it's important to use sunscreen that protects against both.
To test, Consumer Reports applies sunscreen to panelists' backs, then exposes them to either UVA or UVB rays. Testers also check water resistance. Panelists sit in water for up to 80 minutes, depending on the product's claims.
"We also performed a new critical wavelength test mandated by a FDA that determines if the sunscreen offers a sufficient level of UVA protection," Sarrubbo said.
Two products that claim both UVA and UVB protection, Banana Boat Kids and Alba Botanica, failed the test.
But for fun in the sun without the worry, Consumer Reports found two very goo, inexpensive sunscreens. No-Ad SPF 45 and Walgreens' continuous spray sunscreen sport SPF 50. Both of those products rated very good against UVA and excellent against UVB radiation, making them great options for your next day at the beach.
The FDA is currently investigating spray-on sunscreens and whether inhaling the spray poses a danger. Until more is known, Consumer Reports says it's best to avoid using sprays on children. And never spray directly onto your face. Instead, spray into your hands and rub the sunscreen onto your face.
Consumer Reports has tested 18 sunscreens, mostly sprays and lotions, from names like Banana Boat, Coppertone, Neutrogena and Aveeno.
"We test to see how well the sunscreens protect against two types of radiation- UVB, which causes sunburn, and UVA, which penetrates deeper, resulting in tanning and aging of the skin," said Nicole Sarrubbo of Consumer Reports.
Both types contribute to skin cancer, so it's important to use sunscreen that protects against both.
To test, Consumer Reports applies sunscreen to panelists' backs, then exposes them to either UVA or UVB rays. Testers also check water resistance. Panelists sit in water for up to 80 minutes, depending on the product's claims.
"We also performed a new critical wavelength test mandated by a FDA that determines if the sunscreen offers a sufficient level of UVA protection," Sarrubbo said.
Two products that claim both UVA and UVB protection, Banana Boat Kids and Alba Botanica, failed the test.
But for fun in the sun without the worry, Consumer Reports found two very goo, inexpensive sunscreens. No-Ad SPF 45 and Walgreens' continuous spray sunscreen sport SPF 50. Both of those products rated very good against UVA and excellent against UVB radiation, making them great options for your next day at the beach.
The FDA is currently investigating spray-on sunscreens and whether inhaling the spray poses a danger. Until more is known, Consumer Reports says it's best to avoid using sprays on children. And never spray directly onto your face. Instead, spray into your hands and rub the sunscreen onto your face.
