sunscreens: the good, the bad, the ugly

the Environmental Working Group did an investigation of 1,000 brand name sunscreens to evaluate them for chemicals that may pose health hazards and their ability to protect from the sun. take a look at the results, methodology, and even search for the sunscreen you use here: http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/special/sunscreens2008/

EWG's top recommended brands:
1. Blue Lizard (anything without oxybenzone)
2. California Baby (anything with SPF 30+)
3. CVS with zinc oxide
4. Jason Natural Cosmetics Sunbrellas Mineral Based Sunblock
5. Kiss My Face “Paraben Free” series
6. Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Sunblock
7. Olay Defense Daily UV Moisturizer (with zinc)
8. SkinCeuticals Physical UV Defense
9. Solar Sense Clear Zinc for Face
10. Walgreens Zinc Oxide for Face, Nose, & Ears

the study also lists some tips on what to look for and what to avoid when buying sunscreen on their "Shopper's Guide for Safer Sunscreen"

what to look for:
• SPF 30 or higher for best protection.
• At least 7% zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for broad spectrum protection.

what to avoid:
• Oxybenzone or benzophenone-3: skin absorption, allergies, hormone problems
• Spray and powder sunscreens: inhaling sunscreens can pose extra risks
• Fragrance: allergies, reproductive problems
• Sunscreen with added bug repellent: you can get too much of the pesticide in your body
• Coppertone, Neutrogena and Banana Boat: fewer than 5% of their products are recommended as safe and effective

source: Environmental Working Group "Shopper's Guide to Safer Sunscreens" & SkinDeep database, www.cosmeticsdatabase.com