These Are the 10 Safest Sunscreens of 2018, According to EWG's Annual Sunscreen Guide

Just in time for Memorial Day Weekend, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) has released its 12th annual Guide to Sunscreens, which lists the safest and most effective SPF formulas on the market.

So, what's the group's criteria? There are a number of things EWG looks for as it puts together the guide. Each tested sunscreen is rated on a scale of 1-10 and only sunscreens that get a 1 or 2 make the final cut. Some of the biggest no-nos include potentially harmful ingredients like oxybenzone (a hormone-disrupting ingredient that also contributes to coral bleaching) and retinyl palmitate (a form of vitamin A that increases sun sensitivity). EWG also advises against using spray sunscreens since they often don't offer even protection and pose inhalation risks, as well as SPF values higher than 50+ because they offer users a false sense of security.

Less than a third of the sunscreens tested meet the guide's high standards but there are still plenty to choose from. Read on for a few of the EWG Sunscreen Guide's top picks. But while you're at it, remember that sunscreen shouldn't be your only measure of protection; the EWG also recommends covering up with clothing and hats (and sunglasses to protect your eyes), as well as limiting time in the sun between the hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Image via Imaxtree