19
Sep 2011

The FDA’s New Sunscreen Guidelines

By

After more than three decades in the works, the FDA’s new regulations on sunscreens have finally been released.

The new rules require that sunscreens are subjected to FDA tests to check that they protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Ultraviolet radiation is associated with development of 90% of non-melanoma skin cancers (which affect one in five people in the US), and 65% of melanoma cases (responsible for the death of about 8,700 people annually).

Reading The New Labels

  • Products with SPF values between 2 and 14 can be labeled as “Broad Spectrum” if they pass FDA tests to show that they protect against both UVA and UVB radiation.
  • Products can only state that they reduce the risk of premature skin aging and skin cancer if they are of SPF 15 or above.
  • The FDA feels that there is no such thing as a “waterproof” sunscreen. So the terms “waterproof” and “sweatproof” are no longer allowed. The term “water-resistant” is now used, and products must state if they work for 40 or 80 minutes. If a sunscreen is not water-resistant, it must be labeled in such a way as to advise consumers to use a water-resistant product if necessary.
  • The maximum SPF value on a label will now be “50+” since there’s not yet any proof that SPF values over 50 offer any better protection against sun damage than those with SPF 50.
  • The term “sunblock” is no longer allowed, since products don’t actually block the sun, but deflect it.

p
“These changes to sunscreen labels are an important part of helping consumers have the information they need so they can choose the right sun protection for themselves and their families,” reported Janet Woodcock,  director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. “All they’re going to need to do is pick an SPF number and then make sure that it’s broad spectrum.”

The new rules go into effect next year and must be on all sunblocks by the summer, but manufacturers can implement them immediately if they so choose – so you’ll find some newly-labeled products on the shelves now.

The Skin Cancer Foundation hopes that the new FDA regulations will make consumers choose sunscreens more wisely, thereby better protecting their skin from sun exposure, and ultimately reducing the rates of skin cancer.

p
Some Other Sunscreen Tips
In addition to choosing a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30:

  • Sunscreen should be applied 30 minutes before heading outdoors
  • Apply it liberally – use at least 2 ounces (enough to fill a shot glass)
  • Reapply every two hours (more frequently if you are swimming, drying off, or sweating)
  • Always check the product expiration date

And don’t forget all the other ways you can protect yourself and reduce your risk of skin cancer.

ppp

Categories: Medical Tags: , , , ,
06
Sep 2011

8 Simple Ways To Reduce Your Risk Of Skin Cancer

By

Although the sun’s powerful ultraviolet rays are responsible for its harmful effects, including skin cancer, there are thankfully plenty of ways for you to take action and protect yourself from excessive sun exposure.

 

 

8 Simple Ways To Reduce Your Risk Of Skin Cancer

  • Stay indoors where possible to avoid unnecessary sun exposure, especially during peak hours between 10 am and 4 pm.
  • If you have to go outside, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends use of broad spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 (preferably at least 30), even on cloudy days, for adequate protection. The higher the SPF, the greater protection from sunburn, caused mostly by UVB rays. “Broad spectrum” sunscreen products protect against UVA and UVB rays.
  • Wear lip balm of SPF 15 or higher.
  • Seek the shade where possible outdoors, especially between 10 am and 4 pm. (Tip – If your shadow is shorter than you, the sun’s rays are strongest).
  • When in the sun, wear clothing to protect as much of your skin as possible. Long-sleeved shirts and long pants made of tightly woven fabric are most useful, and dark-colored clothing provides more protection than light-colored items. Avoid fabrics that you can see light through. A wide-brimmed hat is also especially helpful to protect the face, neck, and ears. Special clothes with UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) can also guard against sun exposure.
  • Don’t forget eye protection. Ideal sunglasses do not need to be expensive. They simply need to be able to block both UVA and UVB rays. If the label states either “UV absorption up to 400nm” or “meets ANSI UV requirements”, then the glasses block at least 99% of UV rays.
  • Add UV-protective film to the windows of your home and car (this allows in up to 80% of visible light, while blocking 99.9% of UV radiation).
  • Avoid tanning salons. (The American Academy of Dermatology opposes indoor tanning.)

 

So while we should all be able to enjoy the sunshine, it’s equally important to protect our skin from its harmful effects. It’s impossible to completely avoid sunlight (and nor should we want to!), but by following a few simple guidelines, you will be able to work and play outdoors while protecting your skin from the damaging effects of UV rays.

 

Categories: Medical Tags: , , , , ,