Your Sunscreen Safety Questions, Answered

The FDA, the American Academy of Dermatology, and independent researchers say that UV filters have been used for years by millions of people, and there have not been noticeable systemic effects.

Research in animals suggests that oxybenzone might interfere with hormone production, which could affect fertility, puberty, and thyroid function. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents not use oxybenzone-containing sunscreens on children.

Sunscreens with the minerals titanium dioxide and zinc oxide work by creating a physical barrier on your skin and are not absorbed into the skin.

However, mineral sunscreens might not be as effective as products with chemical filters because it t takes a lot of titanium or zinc to create a product with a high SPF. The minerals also may clump up in the product, so they don’t get evenly dispersed on the skin. They can also wipe off more easily.

Both spray and lotion can do a good job if used correctly.

Sprays have the highest rated SPF level, but can be tricky to apply because the droplets can disperse into the air and make it easy to miss areas on your skin. Instead, spray sunscreen onto the palm of your hand then rub it in.

Ensure you don't inhale the spray as the ingredients may irritate or even harm your lungs.