As consumers, we’re looking for a lot in our sunscreen. Not only do we want it to protect us from sunburns and skin cancer, we also want it to be invisible, lightweight, waterproof, nontoxic, shelf-stable, and cheap.

Can we have it all in one product? Sometimes, the answer might be no.

It’s high time for the Outside/In team to take a closer look at this surprisingly high-tech lotion that we apply every day (in theory). We review the definition of SPF, the choice between mineral and chemical filters, and if sunscreen is safe for our bodies and the environment.

Featuring Anna Wang, David Whiteman, Ade Adamson, and Alexa Friedman.

Produced by Justine Paradis. For full transcript and credits, visit outsideinradio.org.

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