A new report has found that lathering on the sunscreen each day to protect your skin from harmful sun damage may actually be doing more harm than good.

The report released by the non-profit Environmental Working Group (EWG) suggests that most sunscreens contain dangerous chemicals that accelerate the growth of skin tumors.

Henry Ford Hospital dermatologist Henry Lim, M.D., tells US News & World Report that the studies used in the EWG report are based on mice, which are much more susceptible to cancer than humans.

The EWG report also insists that sunscreens don’t work because they provide people with a false sense of security about being able to spend long periods of time in the sun.

Healthcare providers say the key to making sure sunscreen is effective is to apply it liberally and often. US News & World Report reports that the FDA recommends a one-ounce-sized dose for head-to-toe protection. Reapplying every two hours is necessary as well since the product can wear off due to sweating, rubbing and swimming.

Consumers are encouraged to look for sunscreen products labeled "broad-spectrum," "wide-spectrum" or "UVA/UVB protection" and to practice other smart sun techniques like wearing hats, cover-ups and sunglasses as well as seeking shade while outside and avoiding outdoor activities when the sun is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.