A new report from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) shows that most sunscreens on store shelves aren’t as safe or effective as you’d think. Out of over 2,200 products tested, fewer than 500 actually protect your skin the way they should. Some even include sketchy ingredients that could mess with your hormones or increase health risks.

The report calls out outdated rules and sneaky marketing that make it hard to know what’s safe. If you want to protect your skin (and avoid sunburns or worse), stick to lotions or sticks instead of sprays, go for fragrance-free options, and look for the EWG Verified® label. And don’t forget: Reapply often, wear a hat and sunglasses, and try to stay out of direct sun from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This spring, teens in Minnesota are stepping up for the planet through Green Crew, a youth-led conservation group that’s rapidly growing in both size and impact. Over 2,000 volunteers are expected to take part in their projects this year—from removing invasive species to building platforms to monitor lake health—all led by students like you.

Founded just three years ago, Green Crew is now launching new chapters across Minnesota and receiving requests from teens nationwide who want to bring the model to their communities. As climate concerns grow, these projects offer not just action but hope, proving that your generation is leading the way toward a more sustainable future.

An alarming new study reveals that nearly 19 million children and teens in the U.S. live with a parent who has a substance use disorder. That means one-quarter of children and teens are growing up in homes affected by addiction—and for many, it’s not mild. They’re facing moderate to severe addiction struggles, including alcohol and multiple drug use.

Experts warn this can lead to challenges like anxiety, depression, and a higher risk of addiction later on. But there’s hope: More doctors, schools, and communities are starting to pay attention and offer support. If this is something you or someone you know is facing, you’re not alone—and help is out there. Talking about it is the first step toward change.

Here’s something to take seriously: Having high blood sugar now could triple your risk of heart problems by your early 20s, according to a new study. Even if you feel fine and are at a normal weight, high blood sugar can start quietly damaging your heart.

This study followed nearly 1,600 teens and found that prediabetes became far more common between ages 17 and 24. Teens with high blood sugar or insulin resistance had thicker heart walls, poorer heart function, and more stress on their hearts—early warning signs of heart disease. The takeaway: Making healthier food and activity choices keeps your heart strong for the future.

Electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer just for tech geeks or the super rich—they’re becoming more affordable and accessible for everyone. Thanks to government incentives, lower battery costs, and more car brands offering budget-friendly EV models, it’s easier than ever to imagine driving electric as your first car.

Charging up is also more convenient today. With over 75,000 public charging stations in the U.S. and nearly 13,000 in Canada, finding a spot to plug in is getting as easy as finding Wi-Fi. As more people make the switch, EVs are powering a cleaner planet—and helping your generation drive toward a greener future.

If you’ve been trying to quit vaping—or know someone who is—there’s big news: A new study found that teens and young adults who took a prescription pill called varenicline were more than three times as likely to stop vaping compared to those who just used counseling or a text support service. Varenicline is already FDA-approved to help adults quit smoking, but this study is the first to show how it could seriously help younger people quit vaping, too. Researchers say this is a big deal, especially since vaping is common among high schoolers.

If you’ve been trying to quit vaping—or know someone who is—there’s big news: A new study found that teens and young adults who took a prescription pill called varenicline were more than three times as likely to stop vaping compared to those who just used counseling or a text support service. Varenicline is already FDA-approved to help adults quit smoking, but this study is the first to show how it could seriously help younger people quit vaping, too. Researchers say this is a big deal, especially since vaping is common among high schoolers.

Earth Day is April 22, and it’s your chance to make a real impact. Simple actions—like using a reusable water bottle, unplugging electronics when not in use, or saying no to plastic bags—can collectively lead to significant environmental benefits.

You‘re not alone in caring about the planet. A recent survey by the National 4-H Council found that 84 percent of teens believe addressing climate change now is crucial for future generations. By adopting sustainable habits like walking or biking instead of driving, recycling properly, and reducing fast-fashion consumption, you can be part of the solution. Remember, every small step you take contributes to a healthier Earth.

If you‘ve been hearing a lot about rising prices, tariffs, or the economy being “uncertain,” you‘re not alone—and even though it might sound like adult stuff, it affects you, too. From the cost of snacks and clothes to saving up for a car or college, money just doesn’t stretch as far as it used to.

That’s why now is a great time to start learning how to budget and manage your money. Knowing how to track your spending, save for goals, and make smart choices can help you feel more in control, even when the economy is unpredictable. These are real-life skills that can make a big difference—starting now and way into your future.

For high school seniors, April is when things start to get real. This is the month when many students are making final decisions about their next steps—whether that’s committing to a college, enrolling in a trade school, joining the workforce, or considering the military. It’s a big moment, and it’s important to think through your options carefully.

Whatever path you choose, make sure it aligns with your goals and interests. There’s no one “right”; choice. College isn’t the only option; trade careers are in demand, the job market is full of possibilities, and the military can offer strong benefits and structure. Take the time to explore, ask questions, and choose the direction that feels like the best fit for your future with these tips.

If you’ve been feeling stressed about school, friendships, or just life in general—you’re definitely not alone. A new survey from Pew Research Center shows that both teen guys and girls are under a lot of pressure, especially to get good grades and figure out their future.

Girls often feel pressure to fit in and look a certain way, while guys feel like they’re expected to be tough or great at sports. But underneath it all, most of you care about your future, want real friends, and deal with mental health stuff—even if it shows up in different ways. However you’re feeling, it matters, and you deserve support that actually fits you.

According to the Wall Street Journal, young adults are increasingly falling victim to online scams, especially on social media platforms. Experts say one major reason is FOMO. Young people are more likely to click on enticing but fraudulent links, which can make them more susceptible to phishing attacks. Scammers exploit this by creating fake shopping deals and get-rich-quick schemes, luring people into providing their personal information or money. To protect yourself, experts recommend being careful about responding to unexpected messages, avoiding links from people or companies you don’t recognize, and making sure online deals are legit before clicking or sharing personal information.

A new Harvard study found that many teens feel pressure to always be productive. Out of 1,500 teens surveyed, more than half felt like they had to get top grades or have their career path figured out already. Some teens said they struggled to find time for things not tied to achievement, while others felt like social media makes it seem like everyone else is doing better than they are.

This constant pressure can lead to burnout, making it harder to stay motivated and enjoy life. To manage stress, it helps to set realistic goals, take breaks, and make time for things you enjoy—whether that’s hanging out with friends, exercising, hobbies, or just relaxing. It’s also important to remember that success looks different for everyone, and you don’t have to have everything figured out right now.

Measles is one of the more contagious respiratory diseases because it is transmitted through the air. The virus spreads through coughing and sneezing, and the tiny droplets can linger for up to two hours. That means you don’t even have to be near an infected person—just being in the same space where they coughed or sneezed earlier could put you at risk. It can also spread by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. If someone has measles, 9 out of 10 people around them will likely get infected if they’re not already protected.

With measles and flu cases on the rise, it’s a good reminder to be mindful of how easily contagious diseases can spread—especially in places like schools, where people are in close contact every day. Washing your hands often with soap and water, covering your mouth when you cough, and staying home when you’re sick are simple ways to help prevent illness from spreading.

Wyatt Ehrhardt, a high school senior from Middleton, Wisconsin, is the co-founder and CEO of Middleton Meals Matter, a student-run nonprofit that collects and distributes food to people in need. In just seven months, Ehrhardt and his team have collected over 26,000 pounds of food and raised nearly $20,000.

Inspired by his grandfather’s community service, Ehrhardt joined his high school’s Key Club, became president, and expanded it from 100 to 300 members. Now he’s planning to launch Meals Matter International to help other students start similar programs. In an interview with the volunteer organization Points of Light, Ehrhardt encouraged other teens to try volunteering. “You don’t realize how rewarding and great volunteering can be until you start,” he said. “Small actions and small steps can create a huge impact.”

A recent study by Penn State College of Medicine shows that sticking to a regular sleep schedule is important for teens’ heart health. The study, published in the journal SLEEP, found that teens who had irregular sleep patterns—such as varying bedtimes during the school week or staying up late and sleeping in on weekends—had lower heart rate variability (HRV). HRV measures the difference in time between heartbeats, and a lower HRV is linked to a higher risk of heart disease. These findings suggest that maintaining regular sleep and wake times now may help protect you from future heart-related issues.