FDA Releases Sunscreen Guidelines

Photo: http://dayglow-eyes.tumblr.com/post/6577552117/dayglow-eyes

After 33 years, the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) is issuing new rules for sunscreen products.This will go into effect next summer.

Sunblock  

Sunscreen cannot be labeled as a "sunblock" because it is a false claim

Sun Protection Factor  

Only products with an SPF of 15 or higher can claim to reduce the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging

Broad Spectrum  

Sunscreen must protect equally against two kinds of sun radiation, UVB (rays cause burning) and UVA (rays cause wrinkling), to be labeled as offering "broad" spectrum protection

Water Resistance  

Products cannot be labeled "waterproof" or "sweat-proof" because such claims are also false. Instead they will be allowed to claim how long the product is water resistant

Advice to Consumers

Read the fine print of the product because it is worth it. Dermatologists suggest that consumers look for products that say "broad spectrum", have a SPF between 30 to 50, and reapply every 40 or 80 minutes.

Continue protecting your skin.

♥ Khou

Info: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/15/science/15sun.html?_r=1