7 Healthcast: Sunscreen Study

When it comes to protecting yourself from the sun's harmful rays, how can you be sure you won't get burned?

A study done by the Environmental Working Group tested more than 900 name-brand sunscreens and found that many of the top names don't measure up.

Dr. Mathew Avram/Massachusetts General Hospital
"This was a very extensive study, and I think what's really important about this study, the take home message is consumers have to be somewhat active in how they look at different sunscreens."

The study found that only 15-percent of the brands tested meet the group's criteria for safety and effectiveness.

The group says that means the rest don't offer both UVA and UVB protection.

The Environmental Working Group also cites other problems: many sunscreens include ingredients that break down in the sun too quickly, or contain ingredients that can cause hormone problems or allergic reactions.

Dr. Mathew Avram/Massachusetts General Hospital
"Certain ingredients in the sunscreens can cause allergies and other health problems. I want to be very cautious about that because I don't want people who see this report to get the feeling that their sunscreens are not safe."

Dermatologist Dr. Mathew Avram says even though some sunscreens don't measure up to this particular group's safety standards, it's not an excuse to stop using sunscreen altogether.

Dr. Mathew Avram/Massachusetts General Hospital
"I want people to continue to use their sunscreens, but what I'm telling my patients to do and what I always tell them to do is to look at their sunscreen and make sure that it has the components that will be effective for them. UVA coverage, UVB protection as well and an SPF of 15 or above."

Dermatologists also say many people aren't using enough sunscreen. Always reapply after you've been in the water, even if your sunblock is waterproof.

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