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Understanding EWG Verification for Sunscreens: A New Standard in Sun Care 

Did you know 1 in 4 sunscreens reviewed by the Environmental Working Group don’t meet their standards for sun protection and avoiding harmful ingredients? In fact, the unfortunate truth is that many sunscreens may not be keeping users as protected as they believe.  

That’s the observation made by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), an organization that has independently profiled over 1,700 sunscreen products.  The Environmental Working Group is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that utilizes research, advocacy and education to support consumers and provide guidance on the safety of products. When a product is EWG Verified®, it has met EWG’s strict scientific standards for transparency and health after thorough assessment by EWG's team of toxicologists, chemists and epidemiologists. 

“When it comes to safeguarding against harmful UV rays, not all sunscreens are equal. Despite SPF claims, most sunscreens available in the U.S. fail to provide sufficient protection against UVA radiation, leaving consumers vulnerable to harm. The EWG VERIFIED® mark ensures peace of mind for people looking for sun care products that prioritize their well-being,” says Aya Matsumoto, a Director at the Environmental Working Group.  

Despite claims of high SPF (Sun Protection Factor), many conventional sunscreens fall short when it comes to shielding us from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet A (UVA) rays. This inadequacy leaves consumers at risk, emphasizing the need for a reliable benchmark that ensures both effectiveness and safety in sun care products. In a peer-reviewed study of 51 sunscreens commissioned by the Environmental Working Group, on average these sunscreens provided just 42 to 59% of the labeled SPF on the package.  

EWG has now taken steps to assess over 1700 sunscreens through their own testing process done with a team of scientists and experts, to ensure peace of mind for people looking for the best sunscreen options available.  

Babo Botanicals, a brand dedicated to safe and effective products, including a line of mineral sunscreens, is one of the first-ever brands to have sunscreen EWG VERIFIED® - an achievement we have now reached with 9 of our sunscreen products.  

What does EWG VERIFIED® mean for Babo Botanicals and our sunscreen range? Let’s delve into the details. 

Setting a New Standard of Excellence 

According to Matsumoto, the accreditation signifies a milestone in sun care excellence. “By focusing on UVA radiation – the sun’s most damaging rays – these sunscreens surpass regulatory standards in both the U.S. and Europe. The European Commission advocates for a ratio of measured protection to SPF of at least one-third, a benchmark that EWG VERIFIED® sunscreens consistently meet or exceed.”  

Prioritizing Health and Efficacy 

Adrien Dissous, Senior Vice President at Babo Botanicals, underscores the importance of the EWG VERIFIED® program in empowering consumers. "The EWG VERIFIED® program is an invaluable resource for consumers and we are beyond excited the program will now allow them to shop for sunscreens with more peace of mind. It places the burden of proof upon brands and manufacturers to demonstrate their products are safe and effective instead of leaving consumers to do the work." This commitment aligns seamlessly with Babo Botanicals' ethos of transparency and ingredient integrity, cultivated since the brand's inception in 2010. 

The Significance of the Mark 

Homer Swei, Senior Vice President of Healthy Living Science at EWG, emphasizes the rigor behind the verification process. "Earning the EWG VERIFIED® mark is a significant achievement, as anyone who has read our exacting criteria can attest. The mark on packaging offers consumers a reliable and convenient way to identify Babo Botanicals best sunscreens, which meet EWG's highest safety and efficacy standards." For Babo Botanicals, receiving this accreditation represents a profound accomplishment, solidifying their position as leaders in sustainable, safe, and effective sunscreen formulations. The EWG VERIFIED® mark on Babo Botanicals' packaging serves as a beacon for consumers seeking reliable sun care options. 

Commitment to Transparency and Sustainability 

Transparency is not merely a buzzword for Babo Botanicals—it's an inherent aspect of our brand identity. By carefully sourcing ingredients and partnering with sustainable farmers globally, Babo Botanicals not only ensures the quality of our products but also supports local communities and ecosystems. 

Babo Botanicals' achievement of EWG VERIFIED® status for 9 products in our sunscreen lineup is a testament to our unwavering dedication to consumer health and product excellence. As we navigate the complexities of sun protection, this milestone sets a new standard, offering peace of mind to consumers seeking sun care products that prioritize efficacy, safety, and sustainability. With Babo Botanicals' EWG VERIFIED® sunscreens, you can bask in the sun with confidence, knowing that your skin is shielded by products that embody the highest standards of care and responsibility.