EWG 2025: Only 1 in 5 Sunscreens Pass - and Why Benzene Is a Reason to Skip Sprays
EWG's 2025 verdict: most sunscreens fall short, and benzene found mostly in sprays is one more reason to reach for a lotion.
EWG's 2025 Guide to Sunscreens reviewed roughly 2,800 SPF products and found only about 20% met its criteria for safety and effectiveness; it specifically cited benzene detected in sprays, lotions, and gels - highest in aerosols - and recent recalls as a reason for extra caution with sprays.
EWG notes that benzene contamination has appeared across formats but is highest in aerosols, so it advises consumers concerned about contamination to favor non-aerosol products. The group treats benzene as a manufacturing-purity issue distinct from the active filters.
Questions we get a lot
Why does EWG single out spray sunscreens for benzene?
EWG reports that benzene contamination has been detected across sunscreen formats but is highest in aerosols, which is why it urges extra caution with sprays. Benzene isn't an intended ingredient - it's a contaminant, often tied to propellants and inactive components. Choosing a non-aerosol format sidesteps the format with the highest detected levels.
How many sunscreens met EWG's standards in 2025?
EWG's 2025 guide reviewed roughly 2,800 SPF products and found only about 20% met its criteria for safety and effectiveness. The remaining majority were rated as falling short on protection, ingredients, or both. EWG combined this with benzene-contamination concerns to advise caution with sprays specifically.
Should I throw out my spray sunscreen?
Not necessarily - benzene is a contamination issue, not a property of every spray, and many sprays test clean. If you're concerned, EWG's practical advice is to favor lotions and other non-aerosol formats. At minimum, avoid recalled lots and apply sprays generously and evenly.
r/SkincareAddiction: 'EWG says benzene shows up most in sprays - should I just throw out my aerosol sunscreen and buy a lotion?'