By Carey Rossi on June 15, 2011 in
Who? The Food and Drug Administration aka FDA
What? After 30 years, the FDA changed sunscreen regulations requiring companies to prove that they protect against both UVB and UVA rays and to adopt new labels designed to ease consumers' ability to choose a sunscreen.Specifically, all those broad-spectrum claims will have to be backed up. Sunscreens with a SPF of 15 or greater who pass the tests outlined by the FDA can broadcast via starbursts and advertising dollars that their formulations can help reduce the risk of skin cancer and signs of early aging. And if products don't pass the muster, they will have to display warning labels stating that they haven't proven their ability to reduce the aforementioned risks. As for SPF, it's getting capped at 50 since there is not enough scientific evidence proving that higher SPF provides more protection. "You'll never get 100 percent coverage from a sunscreen, so these changes take away the false sense of security," Ronald Moy, M.D., president of the American Academy of Dermatology told Ladies' Home Journal.
In addition, companies will have to say sayonara to the terms "sweat-proof" and "water-proof" unless they pass a water resistance test. "Water resistant claims must have labeling that includes the amount of time a person can get sun protection when swimming or sweating," Janet Woodcock, MD, director of the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, told NPR.
When? Just this Tuesday; however, discussions about changing sunscreen labels have occurred since 2007. And even though these regulations were enacted this week, the Wall Street Journal points out that you won't notice a difference in sunscreen packaging for a year (this deadline applies to large companies, such as Coppertone and Neutrogena) or two (this is the deadline for companies that have sales less than $25,000 a year).
Why? Current labeling reflects the science that was available three decades ago. (Talk about an 80s revival.) This change is significant because it makes sunscreen standards reflect the current research available.
How? If you want to make sure that you are getting the best protection before these new labeling requirements take effect in 2012, take these steps:
- Look for sunscreens that list avobenzone, Mexoryl SX, zinc oxide or titanium oxide as the active ingredients. These ingredients have been proven to block UVA rays.
- Make sure your sunscreen contains no less than an SPF 15 for daily use and no less than an SPF 30 for extended periods of sun exposure.
- Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before heading outdoors and then every two hours or more often if you're swimming or sweating as water diminishes effectiveness.
- Don't be stingy with the amount you use. Experts say adults should be using 1 ounce of sunscreen for full-body coverage. This is the equivalent of approximately 2 tablespoons or a palm-full.
- Ditch old bottles. Unless otherwise noted on the bottle, sunscreen is good for about three years from the date of purchase. But, honestly, if you're using enough it shouldn't last that long.
For more information about the best sunscreens to protect you and your family from UVA and UVB rays as well as buying and application tips, see our full report on sunscreens.
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