Choosing sunscreen can feel like decoding a wall of claims: “reef-safe,” “clean,” “dermatologist tested,” “sports,” “dry-touch,” and more. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) publishes an annual sunscreen guide that aims to help shoppers compare products on both protection and ingredient safety. Even if you don’t follow any single rating system perfectly, the framework is useful: it pushes you to look beyond the SPF number and focus on broad-spectrum UVA/UVB coverage, formula stability, and what’s actually inside the bottle.

What EWG’s sunscreen guide is (and what it isn’t)

EWG’s annual guide is a consumer-facing review of many sunscreen products across categories (e.g., lotions, sprays, kids’ formulas). It typically compiles ingredient information and labeling claims into an easy-to-scan rating. The value for shoppers is less about memorizing a single “best list” and more about learning a repeatable way to evaluate any sunscreen on the shelf.

Keep in mind that any guide reflects its own criteria and weighting. Use it as a decision tool—not a substitute for medical advice or for consistent sun-safe habits like shade, hats, and protective clothing.

How to read sunscreen labels the EWG way: key factors that matter

1) Broad-spectrum protection is non-negotiable

SPF mainly describes UVB protection (the rays most associated with sunburn). UVA rays penetrate deeper and are linked to photoaging and can contribute to skin cancer risk. “Broad spectrum” on the label indicates the product meets a standard for UVA coverage in addition to UVB.

  • What to look for: “Broad spectrum” plus an SPF that matches your routine.
  • Practical tip: If you’re outside for long periods, broad spectrum matters as much as the SPF value itself.

2) Don’t get hypnotized by ultra-high SPF

Very high SPF numbers can create a false sense of security. Real-world protection depends heavily on applying enough product and reapplying at the right times. Many people apply too little, which dramatically reduces the effective SPF.

  • Shopping takeaway: Choose an SPF you will use correctly and consistently. For many people, that means a comfortable, wearable daily formula rather than the highest number available.

3) Mineral vs. chemical: choose what you’ll wear, but understand the trade-offs

Sunscreens are generally categorized by their active filters:

  • Mineral (physical) filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide sit on or near the skin surface and help block/scatter UV. They’re often favored by people with sensitive skin and are commonly recommended for strong UVA coverage (especially zinc oxide).
  • Chemical (organic) filters absorb UV and convert it into a small amount of heat. They can feel lighter and more transparent, which improves adherence for some users.

EWG-style assessments often reward products that use filters considered stable and lower concern in their methodology. Regardless of filter type, the “best” sunscreen is the one you’ll apply generously and reapply.

4) Format matters: sprays and powders can be tricky

Convenience formats are popular, but they can be easier to misuse:

  • Sprays: Coverage can be uneven, and wind can reduce how much reaches skin. There are also concerns about inhalation during application.
  • Powders: Useful for touch-ups, but it’s hard to apply enough to match the labeled protection.

If you rely on sprays or powders, consider using a lotion/cream as your base layer and reserving these formats for controlled reapplication.

5) Water resistance is time-limited

“Water resistant (40 minutes)” or “(80 minutes)” indicates how long the sunscreen maintains protection while swimming or sweating—assuming it was applied correctly. It does not mean waterproof, and it doesn’t remove the need to reapply.

  • Rule of thumb: Reapply after swimming, towel drying, heavy sweating, and at least every two hours outdoors.

A simple shopping checklist you can use in-store

  • Broad spectrum clearly stated on the label.
  • Comfort and finish that match your skin type (so you’ll actually wear it daily).
  • Appropriate format (lotions/creams for primary coverage; sprays/powders with caution).
  • Water resistance if you’ll sweat or swim.
  • Clear usage instructions and an amount you can realistically apply (full body use burns through small bottles fast).

Common marketing claims: what to trust and what to question

  • “Reef-safe”: Not a regulated term. Treat it as marketing unless backed by transparent testing and compliance with local rules.
  • “Natural” or “clean”: Vague language that doesn’t guarantee better UV protection or better tolerability.
  • “Dermatologist tested”: Can be meaningful but is often nonspecific. Look for broad spectrum and reliable actives first.

Bottom line

EWG’s annual sunscreen guide is best used as a framework: prioritize broad-spectrum coverage, pick a formula you’ll apply generously, and don’t let ultra-high SPF or trendy claims replace good application habits. If you do one thing today, choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen you like wearing—and use it often enough to matter.