Monday, May 14, 2012

Sunscreen Labels Not Changing Just Yet

Last year, The Food and Drug Administration had asked all sunscreen makers to make clear the extent to which their product offers protection from the sun. This was done in order to distinguish which brands protect the skin against both sunburn-causing ultraviolet B rays and the deeper-penetrating ultraviolet A, linked to skin cancer and premature aging. Also, these makers needed to confirm if their product was actually waterproof or sweat proof or just water and sweat resistant.

Finding it hard to meet the set deadline which was June, 2012, sunscreen manufacturers have requested the government to extend this deadline by 6 months. The government has agreed to their petition and manufacturers now have till December, 2012 to comply with these rules. Small manufacturers, however, have till December 2013.

Regardless of when the label will change, patients are advised to find a sunscreen and is broad spectrum, protecting against both UVA and UVB rays, and to reapply often if spending time outdoors. Remember, one shot glass of sunscreen is the right amount to cover all your skin. Anything less is less effective.

No comments:

Post a Comment