More informative labels proposed for sunscreens

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States has proposed new regulation governing the development and testing of sunscreens; they also want warnings on the labels about the risk of skin cancer linked to sun exposure.

The FDA has recommended new guidelines dealing with the formulating, testing and labeling of over-the-counter sunscreens to ensure that the quality of sunscreen that people purchase is of a high standard.

The FDA wants consumers to clearly understand that both two types of sun rays are equally dangerous - UVA, which is responsible for tanning, and UVB, which leads to burning.

Currently, manufacturers only mention the level of UVB protection by sun protection factor, or SPF, ratings.

Ultraviolet rays from the sun are the leading cause of skin cancer, the most common type of cancer in the United States.

The new warning will be in boldface type on product labels to remind consumers that sunscreen use should not be used to extend time in the sun and that "UV exposure from the sun increases the risk of skin cancer, premature skin aging, and other skin damage.

Sunscreen manufacturers are said to be reviewing the regulations and the public and manufacturers have 90 days to comment on the proposal.

The new UVA rating system would use a scale of one to four stars, with four stars representing the highest UVA protection available in an over-the-counter sunscreen.

The proposed rating system, will enable consumers to choose the best sunscreen based on their activity.

The Commissioner of Food and Drugs Dr. Andrew C. von Eschenbach, says the new proposals will mean consumers will know the level of UVA protection in sunscreens, which will help them make informed decisions about protecting themselves and their children against the harmful effects of the sun.