22% of sunscreen brands are effective, study shows
Share and Follow


TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)— Only 22 percent of sunscreen brands help defend your skin from harmful UV radiation, a study done by the Environmental Working Group shows.

The 2025 Guide to Sunscreens evaluated more than 2,200 SPF products and highlighted the top-rated options, and pushed the FDA to modernize its standards.

According to the study, 498 out of 2,204 SPF products met the criteria in 2025.

“Many sunscreens still fall short by offering misleading claims about protection, using outdated formulas, some even containing ingredients with potential health concerns,” EWG’s Guide to Sunscreen said.

  • 22% of sunscreen brands are effective, study shows
  • Record-setting British climber says he will scale Everest again next year, targeting his 20th summit

Mineral-based sunscreen is one of the biggest shifts in the market. The product uses zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to protect from harmful UV rays, the study said.

The two ingredients are the only active sunscreen filters recognized as safe and effective by the FDA, according to EWG.

In 2025, mineral sunscreens take up 43 percent of the products EWG reviews.

According to EWG, high SPF sunscreens provide only slightly more UVB protection than lower SPF products.

EWG said when choosing a sunscreen, you should:

  • Remember to apply often
  • Don’t fall for high SPF labels
  • Choose lotion and sticks over sprays
  • Avoid ingredients of concern and look for mineral products with zinc oxide
  • Cover up with shirts, hats, shorts, and pants
  • Find shade, or make it

EWG-verified sunscreens can be found on their website.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like

Attention Walmart Shoppers: Important Safety Alert on Potentially Unstable Dressers

NEW YORK (WPIX) – Walmart has announced a recall of a product…

Trump Commutes Sentence of Ex-Rep. George Santos in High-Profile Federal Fraud Case

WASHINGTON (AP) — On Friday, former President Donald Trump announced that he…

Storm Team 3: Delightful Fall Weather to Persist Through the Weekend

SAVANNAH, Ga. – Get ready for a delightful autumn day! The forecast…

Greeneville Road Revamp: Major Pavement Resurfacing Set to Transform Three Key Routes Next Week

In Greeneville, Tennessee, preparations are underway for a series of pavement resurfacing…

Local Legend Electrifies Audience with Show-Stopping Performance at Temptations Concert

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — A cherished icon of the music world recently…

Trump Initiates Efforts to Reduce IVF Expenses through Insurance Guidance and Pharmaceutical Agreement

On Thursday, President Trump introduced two initiatives designed to broaden access to…

Breaking News: Ex-Trump Aide John Bolton Declares Innocence in Maryland Court – Get the Details

In a Maryland courtroom on Friday, John Bolton, who once held a…

Discover the Magic: International Artisans Bring Spectacular ICE! Experience to Gaylord Palms

In Kissimmee, Florida, the Gaylord Palms Resort extended a warm welcome to…