FDA proposing new sunscreen regulations

Over the past three decades, significant findings regarding the damaging effects of sun exposure have encouraged sun seekers to step away from the baby oil, cocoa butter and UV reflectors in search of better UV protection. However, that bottle of “protection” you now slather on in copious amounts might as well read “Manufactured in 1978.” That was the last time the Food and Drug Administration proposed changes to sunscreen labeling regulations—until it recently began citing that current labeling on sunscreen may be misleading or confusing. In 2010, Environmental Working Group, a nonprofit environmental watchdog based in Washington, D.C., reviewed nearly 1,400 sunscreens, finding only 8 percent were actually effective at preventing skin cancer and signs of aging. Last year an estimated 68,130 people in the U.S. were diagnosed with melanoma — the most dangerous form of skin cancer — and an estimated 8,700 died (about 1 person every hour) according to the National Cancer Institute. The question has risen if the long-overdue regulation changes in sunscreen labeling will make these staggering numbers take a U-turn? “For the first time, the FDA has clearly defined the testing required to make a broad-spectrum protection claim in a sunscreen and indicate which type of sunscreen can reduce skin cancer risk,” said Dr. Ronald L. Moy, president of The American Academy of Dermatology Association. Although not officially set to take effect until June 18, 2012 (smaller companies have two years to comply with the guidelines), the FDA hopes these new regulations will be put in to practice sooner. “FDA has evaluated the data and developed testing and labeling requirements for sunscreen products, so that manufacturers can modernize their product information and consumers can be well-informed on which products offer the greatest benefit,” said Dr. Janet Woodcock, director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. “These changes to sunscreen labels are an important part of helping consumers have information they need so they can choose the right protection for themselves and their families.” To better understand the concerns, it helps to understand the two different types of sun radiation: UVA and UVB (both linked to skin cancer). UVA is the type of radiation associated with a bronze glow, and can be found in tanning beds. Sunburns caused by UVB radiation are what the SPF in your sunscreen protects against. Currently these numbers range from 2 to about 70+. The new regulations will promote the following changes in terminology: Sunscreens that have UVA and UVB protection will be known as “broad spectrum.” The SPF (sun protection factor), which protects from UVB radiation, will remain on the package. SPF ratings 15 and above will be permitted to state that they protect against early skin aging and reduce the risk of skin cancer. A SPF below 15 helps prevent sunburn but offers no other protection. The highest SPF rating will be 50+ as studies have shown there is no additional benefit gained beyond this. Waterproof or sweat-proof sunscreens will be vigorously tested to determine the exact amount of time they provide sun protection. This helps consumers know how often it’s necessary to reapply in order to reduce the risk of burning. Most sunscreens should be reapplied every two hours, which is the longest amount of time allowed. The key takeaway for consumers: look for an SPF of 15 and above that also says “broad spectrum,” which is how the FDA describes a product that does an acceptable job blocking both types of damaging rays. However, even though these regulations will be a huge improvement to informing consumers as to what sunscreens are capable of, the International Agency for Research on Cancer recommends clothing, hats and shade as primary barriers to UV radiation and writes that “sunscreens should not be the first choice for skin cancer prevention and should not be used as the sole agent for protection against the sun.” Theresa Schimmels, physician’s assistant at the Rockwood Clinic Dermatology in Spokane recommends these guidelines to keep you and your family healthy during sun-up hours. • Seek shade during the hottest part of the day. • Use more sunscreen that you think you should, and apply early and often. • Start wiith sunscreen and a hat early on to get them in the habit. • Be smart about the sun and teach by example, applying your own sunscreen and a hat. • Don’t forget sunscreen in winter when snowboarding/snow skiing, activities which can cause exposure to reflective sun from the snow. • Sunscreen should be a lifetime habit, applying daily just like brushing your teeth or combing your hair. Some other info to keep in mind: Makeup with SPF can be misleading A recent study from Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City showed most makeup and moisturizer products SPF don’t include the UVA-blocking ingredients. Think of your moisturizer and makeup as an extra layer of protection along with a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Meds Can Make You More Vulnerable Medications like tetracycline, diuretics, and painkillers such as Celebrex, Aleve, and ibuprofen increase your chances of getting a burn, so be extra vigilant about sunscreen when taking these products. Sunscreen Expires Most sunscreens have specially formulated stabilizers that protect their potency for up to three years, so check the expiration date. If left in the heat for prolonged periods of time, sunscreens may become less effective more quickly. Store sunblock in a cool place, and in the shade while you’re at the beach.