Summer is here. Get out your sunscreen, right? There is no proof that sunscreens prevent most skin cancers. Can this be true? Are there good sunscreens?

Despite heavy sunscreen use, the rate of melanoma has tripled over the last 35 years. The Environmental Working Group has published a list of 9 surprising facts about sunscreens and how to pick the best ones.

1. FDA’s sunscreen rules have changed but products haven’t improved.

2. The common sunscreen additive vitamin A may speed development of skin cancer.

3. Don’t be fooled by high SPF. High-SPF products tempt people to apply too little sunscreen and stay in the sun too long.

4. European sunscreens offer superior protection from UVA rays.  They are allowed to use 7 UVA blockers while US manufacturers can use only 3.

5. Some sunscreen ingredients disrupt hormones and cause skin allergies. 

There are good sunscreens, but it’s helpful to learn about ingredients.  Learn more here. . .