Posted: May 25, 2010 5:03 AM
Updated: May 25, 2010 5:03 AM
TUCSON - In a push to protect you, the feds are rolling out new regulations for sunscreen, prompted by what the FDA says are misleading claims on bottles.
Whether poolside, or taking a stroll, the sizzling sun is hard to avoid.
"I try to put sunscreen on, but only when I go out swimming basically," says UA student Rebecca Bahmer.
Her friend Dan Foor says, "Used it this last weekend, but I still got a sunburn actually, you can see a little sunglasses tan."
Foor learned the hard way that not all sunscreens are created equal.
So starting in October, the FDA is requiring clearer labeling with a four star system, setting the standards for sunscreens and label claims.
New regulations will require ultra violet A protection to be displayed prominently on labels near the SPF number.
"The higher the star the more protection you're going to have from skin cancer," says physicians assistant Danielle Moser with Skin Spectrum.
Moser says it's the ultra violet A rays which cause cancer and premature aging. Even in cloudy weather, Moser says those rays last all day.
UVA rays even penetrate through your home and car windows, with harmful effects.
To protect against UVA look for sunscreens with one of the following ingredients:
Avobenzone, Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide, or Mexoryl.
For a drug store find, Moser recommends Blue Lizard, it runs $15 and is great for kids, or adults with sensitive skin.
Speaking of drug stores, new regulation will also prohibit manufacturers from claiming sun protection factors of more than 50, so those very high SPF sunscreens that now line drug and grocery store shelves may go away.
Helping us all become better sunscreen consumers.
Comments