Sunscreen Products and Children's UV Shirts Found Lacking Protection and Containing Hazardous Chemicals

The Environmental Working Group’s 16th annual Guide to Sunscreens evaluated more than 1,850 products and concluded that about 75 % rate poorly for skin protection or contain ingredients of health concern. Only one in four sunscreens met the organization’s standards, with many formulations still using oxybenzone, a chemical linked to hormone disruption and detected in the bodies of nearly every American.

Independent laboratory tests of children’s UV‑protective swimwear revealed that numerous garments from major brands fail basic UPF standards and, in some cases, contain trace amounts of volatile organic compounds and heavy metals from dyeing processes. The lack of effective UV blockage and the presence of toxic residues raise new public‑health concerns and highlight gaps in regulatory oversight in European markets.

Both reports call for stricter safety evaluations and clearer labeling to protect consumers, especially children, from inadequate sun protection and potential chemical exposure.