An Improved Understanding of Sunscreens

I have previously talked about suncreens in other blogs and the importance of understanding the damage from both UVA and UVB rays and the SPF and SPF-A sunscreen protection classification systems. Everyone is familiar with the SPF system in which, for example, a sunscreen with SPF 15 would allow a person to stay in the sun 15 times longer than the time period in which they would ordinarily burn. However, the FDA questions this concept since SPF is related to the amount of sun exposure, not actual time, as well as numerous other factors such as geographic location, time of day, skin type, and the amount of sunscreen applied. And this does not take into account, as I have previously mentioned, about the more damaging UVA rays. (SPF-A)
Therefore, new rules have been proposed by the FDA which will also require sunscreen products to indicate on their label a four-star rating system to indicate level of protection from UVA rays. One star is the least and four stars is the most. If a product does not offer UVA protection, the label must say "No UVA protection" next to the SPF rating. Therefore, each sunscreen label will feature two separate ratings -- stars for UVA and an SPF number. This labeling system is now in line with current medical understanding that UVA light is just as harmful to your skin as UVB light.
These new labeling rules will make it easier for the public to understand the features of a sunscreen. In addition to providing specific information about UVA and UVB protection, manufacturers must drop the term "broad spectrum" as it becomes meaningless in the face of these more specific protection indicators. Als0, sunscreens have to be more specific about their resistance to moisture exposure. Sunscreens labeled "water resistant" or "sweat resistant" are those that need to be reapplied after 40 minutes of swimming or sweating. Those labeled "very water resistant" or "very sweat resistant" are good for up to 80 minutes of moisture exposure. Once these new labeling rules go in force, however, these moisture-resistant terms must be removed.
When these new sunscreen labeling regulations will be required is unknown but it is likely they will be law by sometime in 2009. You will see soon, however, sunscreens with the dual star rating-SPF number probably this summer. For best sun protection, use a sunsceen with a three star rating (UVA) and an SPF of 30. (UVB)
Dr Barry Eppley
http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com/
http://www.ologyspa.com/
Clarian North Medical Center, Carmel, Indiana
Clarian West Medical Center, Avon, Indiana
Indianapolis