US FDA proposes sunscreen rule, cancer warning

August 23, 2007

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. regulators on Thursday proposed a new regulation governing the development and testing of retail sunscreens, including a new label warning consumers about the risk of skin cancer linked to sun exposure.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration calls for the testing and rating of a product's level of ultraviolet "A" protection, the light from the sun responsible for tanning.

Ultraviolet rays from the sun are the leading cause of skin cancer, the most common type of cancer in the United States. There are two types of UV rays - UVA, which is responsible for tanning, and UVB, which leads to burning. The FDA wants to make it clear to consumers that both types are equally dangerous.

Currently, manufacturers indicate the level of ultraviolet B protection by sun protection factor, or SPF, ratings.

A new warning in boldface type on product labels would remind consumers that sunscreen use should not be used as a reason to extend time in the sun and that "UV exposure from the sun increases the risk of skin cancer, premature skin aging, and other skin damage."

Large sunscreen manufacturers include Johnson & Johnson, Playtex Products Inc. and Schering-Plough. All three companies said they are reviewing the regulations.

A new UVA rating system would use a scale of one to four stars, with four stars representing the highest UVA protection available in an over-the-counter sunscreen.

The public and manufacturers have 90 days to comment on the proposal.