#USA #New York #sun protection #Skin Cancer Foundation #Seal of Recommendation

New Standards for Sun Protection: A Focus on Safety

In celebration of Skin Cancer Awareness Month, the Skin Cancer Foundation’s Photobiology Committee has introduced updated criteria for its prestigious Seal of Recommendation. This change emphasizes the importance of safe and effective sun protection products amidst a surge in skin cancer rates and ongoing misinformation about the dangers of sun exposure.

Background on the Seal of Recommendation

Established in 1981, the Seal of Recommendation has been a trusted badge of safety for consumers. Through rigorous third-party laboratory testing, products that meet the Foundation’s strict criteria are awarded this seal. This program was created to aid consumers in navigating a complex market filled with various products claiming to protect against sun damage.

Enhanced Guidelines

Dr. Steven Q. Wang, the chair of the Photobiology Committee, states that the committee reached a consensus on the new standards after an intensive review process. The newly proposed standards not only uphold scientific integrity but also reflect the latest research regarding UVA and UVB protection. The foundation requires testing to ensure that sunscreen products achieve the minimum Sun Protection Factor (SPF) for daily use and active use scenarios, aiming to cater to all types of sun exposure.

Essentially, for a sunscreen to earn the Daily Use Seal of Recommendation, it must have a minimum SPF of 30, water resistance if claimed, and a minimum critical wavelength (CWL) for UVA protection set at 373 nm. Sunscreens claiming higher protection and designed for extended outdoor activity must achieve a minimum SPF of 50 and also pass rigorous water resistance tests.

Addressing Misinformation

The Foundation also recognizes the critical need to fight against misinformation regarding sun safety. Given the alarming increase in skin cancer cases in the U.S., the foundation emphasizes the importance of reliable information about sun protection. They encourage the public to submit inquiries about sun safety, which will be addressed and shared in their educational outlets.

Foreseeing the Changes

The updates not only assure better protection for consumers; they're also a call to action for manufacturers to maintain transparency and integrity in their product claims. For instance, hats and fabrics are now also subject to minimum UPF standards, and window films must show a minimum of 99% UVA and UVB blockage.

Looking Ahead

As we acknowledge the dangers associated with skin exposure, The Skin Cancer Foundation encourages everyone to adopt a complete sun protection routine. During Skin Cancer Awareness Month and beyond, it is recommended to cover up with protective clothing, seek shade, and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen diligently before sun exposure. The Foundation aims to regularly encourage public engagement in protective measures, appointing dermatologists to proactively offer guidance and education.

With these new criteria, the Seal of Recommendation becomes a vital tool for consumers aiming to safeguard themselves from the risks of skin cancer in a market rife with competing claims and misinformation. As a result, consumers can be assured that they are making informed choices with scientifically-backed products designed to protect their skin effectively.

For more information on how to identify products with the Seal of Recommendation and the importance of sun protection, visit SkinCancer.org.

Conclusion

The embrace of updated safety standards by the Skin Cancer Foundation marks a crucial step toward better skin health for everyone. The introduction of a revised Seal of Recommendation program signals hope as it combats rising skin cancer cases while empowering consumers with the knowledge and means to protect themselves effectively against harmful UV rays. This initiative aims not only to mitigate risk but also to instill a culture of proactive sun care in society.