US clamps down on sunscreen labeling

On June 14, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced "significant" changes to sunscreen labeling to help consumers make better choices about sunscreen products. According to a report, terms such as "sunblock," "waterproof," and "sweat proof" can no longer be used to describe a sunscreen product. Now manufacturers can only use the phrase "water-resistant" while specifying how long the product works and when it should be reapplied, after 40 or 80 minutes in the water. If the sunscreen is not water-resistant, it should carry a warning not to use it in the water. Also, the FDA states that only the sunscreens that protect against UVA and UVB rays and have an SPF no less than 15 can be considered effective at reducing the risk of skin cancer, sunburns, and wrinkles. If a product does not meet these requirements, it should carry a warning. Sunscreens with SPF 50 and higher will be banned, because there is no evidence that they offer greater protection against UV radiation. The labels will go into effect next year. The new regulations, which the FDA has been considering since 1978, are catching up to European and Australian standards. In both Australia and the EU, protection from sunburn can not be claimed unless the product helps prevent both ultraviolet UVB and UVA radiation. Already in the EU, sunscreen labels can only go up to SPF 50, while Australia's limit is 30. In the US, there are 17 approved sunscreen agents, Europe has 28, and Japan has more than 40, according to New York University's Darrell S. Rigel, former president of the American Academy of Dermatology. Last month, the Environmental Working Group (EWG), a US-based advocacy group working to expose hazards to health and the environment, released its yearly list of the safest and most effective sunscreens, lip balms, and moisturizers with SPF. The comprehensive sunscreen guide includes a list of 129 products offering effective and safe sun protection as well as those to avoid. Top-rated sunscreens contained zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, considered highly effective against sun damage. The EWG also recommends avoiding sunscreens with bug repellent; staying out of the sun during peak hours (between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.); dressing appropriately to reduce exposure, such as wearing wide brimmed hats and anti-UV sunglasses; and avoiding sunscreen in spray and powder forms, which could damage lungs over time. From / The Independent