Why Sun Creams are Best

Dr. Sutton recommends avoiding powder and spray sun care. "The airborne chemicals are potentially dangerous to breathe in and could have a long-term toxic effect on the lungs." And avoid 2-in-1 combos, such as sunscreen mixed with insect repellants. "You need to apply sunscreen every few hours to be effective and you don't want to put bug repellant on that often," says Gray.

The best sun protection combines a quality sunscreen with a good dose of common sense.
"People rely too heavily on sunscreen alone," says Dr. Cohen. Make sure your child wears a hat and UV protective clothing. Avoid direct sunlight during the peak hours of 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and play in the shade when possible.

And, when it comes to choosing a sunscreen, look for a brand with at least seven percent zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and an SPF of 15 to 30. (Sunscreens above SPF 30 block just one to two percent more UVB rays and contain two to three times more active ingredients.)

Meet our experts:

Dr. Paul Cohen, a Toronto-based dermatologist at the Rosedale Dermatology Center. He was named one of Canada's best dermatologists by Fashion magazine.
 The Environmental Working Group (EWG)   is a non-profit organization with the goal of protecting public health and the environment. Sean Gray is a senior analyst with the EWG and Dr. Rebecca Sutton is a EWG staff scientist.

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