We still have many more weeks of summer and intense heat to enjoy. Don’t forget to keep lathering on that sunscreen.
The FDA recently changed the rules for Suncare product manufacturers. While some companies, such as Coppertone, already conform to the new rules, others have until December, 2012 to comply.
Suncare products must include labels that clearly state the length of time they stay water-resistant and can no longer claim they are waterproof. They must also state if they protect against UVA rays, UVB rays or both (Broad Spectrum).
When purchasing sunscreen, it’s best to look for those labeled Broad Spectrum, which means the product protects against both UVA and UVB rays. A standard test to determine which of these a product protests against has now been developed so all products are being tested equally.
According to the FDA, the following guidelines must be followed:
- Water resistance claims on the product’s front label must tell how much time a user can expect to get the declared SPF level of protection while swimming or sweating, based on standard testing. Two times will be permitted on labels: 40 minutes or 80 minutes.
- Manufacturers cannot make claims that sunscreens are “waterproof” or “sweatproof” or identify their products as “sunblocks.” Also, sunscreens cannot claim protection immediately on application (for example, “instant protection”) or protection for more than two hours without reapplication, unless they submit data and get approval from FDA.
Stay safe and keep enjoying the summer.
Disclaimer: All information provided here was provided by the US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) and Coppertone. Any opinions expressed are mine alone.
