Jul 1, 2008 7:27 pm US/Eastern
Study: Sunscreen May Not Be Blocking Those Rays
NEW YORK (CBS) ―
When you slather on the sunscreen this 4th of July weekend, how well will it work? The results of an investigation released Tuesday charge four out of five of products contain chemicals that won't protect you from the sun's damaging rays and may even pose health hazards.
They're some of the biggest brand names from Coppertone to Banana Boat, and Neutrogena, but non-profit organization Enviornmental Working Group (EWG) charges they're some of the worst offenders when it comes to safety and protection.
"You're not always getting what you think you're getting if you just read the label," said Jane Houlihan, the group's vice president of research.
The EWG looked at 17 chemicals approved for use in 950 products. They say some actually break down when exposed to sunlight. Others, they claim, penetrate the skin and pose health concerns.
"It's a rip-off," says consumer Shelia Pierre.
Sunscreen users seemed quite burned up by the findings.
"There needs to be, obviously, some restrictions put on these companies to make sure what they are saying is true," said consumer Rachel Piskin. "
The EWG also charges the Food & Drug Administration has dragged its feet when it comes to drafting guidelines for labeling.
So what's a consumer to do?
Doctors say read the labels. Certain ingredients are key for protection.
"The most important is avobenzone and two other ingredients -- titanium dioxide and zinc oxide," said Dr. Zoe Draelos with the American Academy of Dermatology.
In separate statements, Coppertone and Neutrogena, said their products undergo extensive testing to ensure safety and efficacy and are dermatologist recommended and tested.
All groups agree that wearing some sunscreen should be a part of your daily routine. To find out how your product fared on the group's list,
click here.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
2009 Celebrity Deaths
Click to enlarge
Bronx Fire Leaves Dozens Homeless Before Holidays 30 mins ago 
Schumer: Dems Ready To Go-It-Alone On Health Care 24 mins ago 
Stumble It!
Reporting
Comments