Let's Talk About Sun

Unless you've been living under a rock, and therefore have little need for sunscreen, you've been hearing about the new requirements the FDA is placing on over-the-counter sunscreens. This is not a brand-new issue, as the requirements were announced in June 2011, but now they are being enforced, still with a bit of confusion. I'm going to touch on some of the main points, but here are a few links that provide exhaustive information on the regulations:

FDA on Sunscreen Basics (plus links to additional information)

FDA Q & A on New Regulations (plus links to additional information)

WebMD's Q & A on New Regulations (recommended by FDA)

Here are the basics:

1. Broad Spectrum- Sunscreens now have to have UVA and UVB protection. In the past, UVB, Ultraviolet B radiation that caused burning, was primarily targeted when sunscreens were regulated. UVA, Ultraviolet A radation that contributes to skin cancer and early aging, was not really addressed. With the new regulations, sunscreens should have both UVA and UVB, or "Broad Spectrum", protection. Per the FDA, " Only Broad Spectrum sunscreens with an SPF value of 15 or higher can claim to reduce the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging if used as directed with other sun protection measures. Non-Broad Spectrum sunscreens and Broad Spectrum sunscreens with an SPF value between 2 and 14 can only claim to help prevent sunburn."

2. No more "waterproof", "sweatproof" or "sunblock" claims. Sunscreens can claim to be water-resistant, but must indicate on the front label whether they remain water-resistant for 40 or 80 minutes while swimming or sweating, based on testing. Sunscreens that are not water-resistant must suggest the use of a water-resistant sunscreen for swimming and sweating. Sunscreens also cannot claim to provide more than 2 hours of protection without reapplying.

3. Sunscreens must have a minimum SPF of 15, but cannot go higher than 50.

I encourage everyone to read up on the new regulations, and stay informed about sun safety. I think these new requirements are going to be beneficial, as long as people stick by them. We've gone for a while thinking if we slather on a good coat of waterproof SPF 50 once, before we hit the pool or the beach, we're fine. In reality, we'd almost be better with a lesser SPF, reapplying every 2 hours. It's very important to teach our kids good sun habits as well.

We don't have to go around looking like sparkling vampires from "Twilight"- nor do we have to spray-tan ourselves Pantone orange like the Jersey Shore crazies. We'll delve into that next time.