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Photo Credit- FDA
The FDA, after decades of delays and debate, today announced new testing and labeling standards for the manufacturers of sun screens sold in the United States.
While the FDA Monograph runs 174 pages, the upshot is that these new rules require that sunscreens that don't protect against both ultraviolet A and B rays and have an SPF factor of at least 15 will have to carry warning label:
"This product has been shown only to help prevent sunburn, not skin cancer or early skin aging."
Those sunscreens that protect against UVA & UVB will be referred to as "Broad Spectrum SPF [value]"
Additionally, manufacturers must no longer label their products `waterproof’ or `sweat-proof’, and may now only call them `resistant’. They must also provide evidence on how long they remain resistant.
This issue has been under review since the late 1970s, but a decision has reportedly been on hold while issues surrounding UVA and UVB could be addressed.
These rules changes go into effect by the summer of 2012, but some manufacturers have already changed their labeling.
In a statement on their website today, the FDA stated:
Sunscreen
The FDA has announced significant changes to sunscreen products that will help consumers decide how to buy and use sunscreen, and allow them to more effectively protect themselves and their families from sun-induced damage. For more information about theses changes, see Questions and Answers1.
Sunscreen products that meet modern standards for effectiveness may be labeled with new information to help consumers find products that, when used with other sun protection measures, reduce the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging, as well as help prevent sunburn.
These new requirements are part of an ongoing effort to ensure sunscreens meet modern-day standards for safety and efficacy and are based on the latest science available. They will also reduce confusion about sunscreen.
The FDA’s Youtube channel has three new videos addressing sunscreen use, and these regulatory changes:
