FDA Issues Long-Awaited Sunscreen Rules

New U.S. rules will require sunscreens to be tested against both types of rays from the sun. Revised labels will offer a standard way to compare products. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the changes June 14. Changes will take effect in one year. They have been in development for more than 30 years. Now products must be tested for protection against ultraviolet A and B rays. UVA rays cause wrinkles. UVB rays cause sunburn. Both can cause skin cancer. Sunscreens now carry a sun protection factor (SPF) rating to show how well they protect against UVB. Some products claim “broad spectrum” protection against both UVA and UVB rays. New rules require certain tests before making this claim. The SPF level must be 15 or higher for both types of rays. Products that don’t meet this standard must carry a warning. Numbers above SPF 50 are not allowed.