Consumer Reports Names Sunscreen Best Buys

Consumer Reports has revealed its list of the best rated sunscreens to help you choose summer sun protection. The magazine tested 18 sunscreens.

Each product’s UVB radiation protection was rated before and after swimming for up to 80 minutes.

Consumer Reports also did a “critical wavelength” test that is now required by the FDA to see if the sunscreen has both broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. UVB radiation causes sunburn; UVA contributes to long-term skin damage and aging.

“Passing the broad-spectrum test shows that the product provides UVA protection that is proportional to its UVB protection,” says FDA spokesman Devin Koontz.

Consumer Reports named three “Best Buys”:

• No-Ad Lotion with Aloe & Vitamin E, SPF 45
• Walgreens Continuous Spray Sport, SPF 50
• Coppertone Oil-free Foaming Spray, SPF 75+

The magazine also rated four other products as “Recommended”:

• All Terrain Aqua Sport Lotion, SPF 30
• Banana Boat Clear Ultra-mist Sports Performance Active Dry Protect Spray, SPF 30
• Coppertone Sport High Performance Ultra Sweat-proof Spray, SPF 30
• Eco All Natural Sunscreen Body Lotion, SPF 30

Using Sunscreen Correctly

Buying an effective sunscreen is only half the battle. Applying it correctly is just as important.

According to New York City dermatologist Dr. Neil Sadick, only about one in five people wears sunscreen properly on a daily basis.

“Even if they are using a makeup with a sunscreen, I would tell my patients they’re not getting enough protection,” Sadick says.

He says that every day you should wear a small shot glass worth of sunscreen to cover the face, ears, neck, hands and any other exposed skin.

Consumer Reports had these tips:

• Use a sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30.
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming.
• Wear a hat in addition to sunscreen.

Learn more about skin care treatments and products at Will Surgical Arts.

Sources: WebMD, WSJ, Denver Post