Does your sunscreen really protect you? New study questions outcomes

SPF may not always be a reliable factor in choosing a sunscreen.

Summer is finally here, and the thought of a relaxing time on the beach is ever so appealing! But with summer fun, come summer woes. An increased awareness of the dangers of UV rays from the sun in the summer means the public is out looking for ways to protect themselves. Sunscreen sprays and lotions tend to be widely-used forms of sun protection, but with so many options, how does one decide which is best?

According to a recent survey conducted by Consumer Reports National Research Center, half of the 1000 individuals surveyed tended to rely on the intensity of the sun protection factor (SPF) the most when choosing a sunscreen. According to lab tests, however, those numbers are not always reliable and should not always be trusted.

The Consumer Reports survey tested 20 sunscreen sprays and lotions that claim to be water-resistant, while also providing ‘broad-spectrum’ protection. ‘Broad spectrum’ protection encompasses protection from both UVA and UVB light rays, both of which contribute to cancer risks. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) standard for ‘broad spectrum’ sunscreens is having a minimum critical wavelength value of 370 nanometres.

Testing revealed that 18 of the 20 tested sunscreens were over-represented in their labelling of SPF factor. 16 products had SPFs that were four to 40 percent below their claims. One product had an SPF that was less than 50 percent of its claim.

Among these products were some well-known sunscreen brands. Beyond Coastal Natural SPF 30 was found to have an SPF below 15, Banana Boat Kids’ SPF 50 came in below SPF 15.

While the reason for the results differing so vastly from the manufacturer’s claims is inconclusive, the results of the study are being submitted to the FDA for review. From the consumer’s perspective, however, it is important to note that a higher SPF does not mean an equally greater amount of protection – i.e. twice the SPF does not mean twice the protection.

Consumer Reports recommends Equate Ultra Protection SPF 50 from Walmart for $9-dollars, and the Spray Up & Up Sport SPF 50 from Target for $8-dollars as the best buys.