The questions surrounding labeling of sunscreens may prove to be the thorniest of all. In addition to recommending the SPF limit on labels, the FDA has proposed further label changes to help clarify the risks and benefits of sunscreen use and how to use the products properly. Complexity is the problem because consumers want simplicity. Industry already has conducted studies that test the effectiveness of different ways to present information on the label. UVA should complement and not distract from SPF on the label.
Simplicity is the key to public policy.
Simple or not, the labeling issue is not trivial because studies already show that consumers may not use sunscreens correctly. The public under-applies sunscreens by as much as half of the recommended amount, concluded a study published in the Archives of Dermatology. Consequently, the study argued, consumers are receiving only half of the SPF protection they believe the product provides. Repeated exposure of unprotected skin while tanning may increase the risk of skin aging, skin cancer, and other harmful effects to the skin even if you do not burn. Tanning products that do not contain sunscreens and do not protect against the harmful effects of UV light are regulated as cosmetics.