Decoding Sunscreen Labels
In an attempt to help patients better understand sunscreens
and how they protect you from the sun, the FDA began an initiative to
streamline sunscreen labels. Currently, sunscreen labels contain wording
that can be misleading and confusing: sunblock, sun protection, UVA, UVB, broad
spectrum, sweat proof, water proof, water resistant, and the list goes on!
Fortunately, new regulations will make it much easier for you to quickly
identify and select the best sunscreen for your needs. Below are the key
terms you need to understand when deciphering the new sunscreen labels:
Broad Spectrum: There are two types of radiation from
the sun that can harm skin, resulting in premature aging and skin cancers, UVA
and UVB. Broad spectrum suncreens have been proven to protect against
both of these harmful types of radiation. In order for a
product to claim it protects against skin cancer, it must be broad spectrum AND
contain a minimum SPF 15. If a product does not meet both of these
criteria, the package is required to have the following warning: “This
product has been shown only to help prevent sunburn, not skin cancer or early
skin aging.” At Florida Skin Center, we suggest going a step beyond these
recommendations, by using broad spectrum suncreens with a minimum SPF 30.
Water Resistant: With the new regulations, companies
will no longer be allowed to claim a product is waterproof , sweat proof, or
sunblock. Instead, a product may be classified as “water
resistant”. Again, if the product is not water resistant, the label must
contain a warning alerting the consumer.
With so many sunscreens available today, choosing the best
one can be difficult. The new regulations should streamline the process
and increase your awareness of which products are best and why. Ask FSC
which sunscreen is most appropriate for you and will best meet your needs!
Remember, it is important to wear sunscreen EVERY day, reapplying regularly, in
order to prevent the damage that can easily result from the Florida sun.
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