(WXYZ) — With the coronavirus pandemic, trips to the beach may be few and far between, but it's likely you're spending more time outside. That means you'll need a good sunscreen, and Consumer Reports just finished testing them.
As part of the testing, sunscreen is applied to subjects' backs, then they soak in a tub for 40 or 80 minutes, depending on the water-resistance claim.
The area is then exposed to simulated sunlight. The next day, trained experts examine the area for redness.
The two top performers are also Consumer Reports' best buys – Trader Joe's spray SPF 50+ and Coppertone Ultra Guard Lotion SPF 70.
It's important to note that all of the top-rated sunscreens contain an ingredient called Oxybenzone, which is a very effective UV filter.
“The concern with oxybenzone is that there is some evidence that it’s absorbed through the skin more than previously thought. That doesn’t necessarily mean it’s unsafe, but the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests parents may want to use an oxybenzone-free sunscreen on their kids.”
Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Ultra Radiance Lotion SPF 50 and Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Weightless Lotion SPF 30 were the highest-scoring Oxybenzone-free sunscreens.
Consumer Reports does recommend parents choose lotion as kids may inhale the spray which could cause lung irritation.
