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Verify: Can you always trust a brand’s SPF label?

Consumer Reports recently released new research on the best sunscreens, and you might be surprised.

You've heard about the importance of sunscreen, the higher the SPF level the longer it will protect you from UVB rays.

13 On Your Side Verified: Can you always trust the SPF level of your sunscreen?

Consumer Reports recently released new research on the best sunscreens and says: “Of the 73 lotions, sprays, sticks and lip balms in our ratings this year, 24 tested at less than half their labeled SPF number.”

Since you can’t always rely on the sun protection factor, here are the top three rated lotions and sprays:

“Every year Consumer Reports does these things and we find that some of the most popular sunscreens don't make it to the ratings that they claim," said Richard Ashack, a dermatologist with Dermatology Associates of West Michigan. "My philosophy is stick with a brand that you like.”

But it’s important to know there’s a difference between sunscreens and sunblocks.

“Sunblocks are inert, they're minerals, they reflect light, they do a better job blocking both UVA and UVB," Ashack said. "All the kids stuff tends to be the sunblocks.”

Sunblocks contain zinc and titanium dioxide.

“Sunscreens are chemicals that absorb light and then undergo a chemical change to protect the skin,” Ashack said.

The key is to re-apply... and re-apply, again.

“Sunburns equate to skin cancers, both melanoma and nonmelanoma related.”

Make sure you look for broad spectrum which protects against UVA and UVB rays.

“30 to 50 (SPF) reapplying every 2 hours, that's the recommendation no matter if its a screen or a block.”

Ashack also recommends applying a tablespoon of sunscreen to each area, and to keep an eye out for expiration dates.

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