Consumers have been confused for years about sunscreen products. I have been telling my patients for years to use a broad spectrum sunscreen, meaning a sunscreen with both UVA and UVB protection. Currently in order to make sure you are getting a good sunscreen to help protect against skin cancer, you have to read the small print.

The good news is that last week new rules and regulations were published by the FDA requiring sunscreen products to be tested for their effectiveness against both UVA and UVB rays in order to claim they protect against skin cancer. Until this ruling, sunscreens have only been tested for the effects of UVB rays but the risk of skin cancer is just as high with UVA rays. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, about 90 percent of non-melanoma skin cancers are associated with exposure to UVA rays.

If the sunscreen passes the test, it will be labeled as “broad spectrum” with an SPF of 15 or higher and it may state they reduce the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging. Sunscreens that fail the test for UVA and UVB rays or have an SPF value of less than 15 must carry a new warning that the product has not been shown to prevent skin cancer or early skin aging. Sunscreens cannot claim to provide sun protection for more than two hours without reapplication and the terms “sunblock”, sweatproof” and “waterproof” are no longer allowed on sunscreen labels. A sunscreen may claim to be “water resistant”; however, the product must specify if it offers 40 minutes or 80 minutes of protection while swimming or sweating, based on standard testing.

The new rules will not go into effect until early 2012, so it is still important to read sunscreen labels to make sure you are purchasing a broad spectrum sunscreen. And don’t forget to reapply every 2 hours!

Related Stories
‹
Not So Blue Without You
Throughout my years as a dermatologist, I have treated thousands of patients for matters concerning both general dermatology and cosmetic dermatology. In my experience, wrinkles, brown spots, and skin texture top the list of common cosmetic concerns. When bothered by these widespread problems, many patients are aware of their possible dermatologic solutions and pursue treatment. […]
Botox Can Cure Headaches, Too...
In investigating their treatment options, most migraine sufferers wouldn’t seek help from their dermatologist. But one of them did as a last resort.   “I have had migraines since I was in my early 20’s, for 15 years, and they had gotten progressively worse, to the point where I got them every day,” said Faye. […]
In Response to "A Letter to Deems May"
I, too, am a graduate of UNC. I find Dr. Harmon’s letter to Deems May interesting, at best, and honestly he makes a couple of legitimate points. My question to the good Dr. would be why he fails to mention that Butch Davis, as far as I know, was mentioned nowhere in the NCAA findings? […]
Alzheimer's Disease-What do we really know?
Alzheimer’s Walk NC on October 1st at the Koka Booth Amphitheatre in Cary! This week I was presented with an interesting project to work on with a colleague of mines in our assisted and skilled living area supporting the upcoming Alzheimer’s Walk NC on October 1st. In doing some research on Alzheimer disease it allowed me to […]
Short and Simple Skin Care Tips for Men
Think skin care is only important to women? Not in today’s world. More men are discovering the benefits of good skincare, but I have found that most men do not want to spend much time nor a lot of steps applying products. Men want to keep their daily regimens short and simple.  In the morning: Cleanse, moisturize, protect. […]
Local Government Meetings: September 14-18, 2026
This week in local government: a greenway network in Chapel Hill, and busing concerns and elementary school redistricting for CHCCS.
What's Open or Closed on Labor Day? Holiday to Impact Local Government Services
Monday marks the observance of Labor Day, which is meant to celebrate the contribution of workers and employees across the United States. With that, the local governments in Orange County will be giving many of their employees the day off, which will affect certain local government services. Ahead of the holiday on Monday, Sep. 7, […]
How OWASA's Reclaimed Water System Extends the Lifespan of Local Water Sources
Built 17 years ago to improve the community’s drinking water resilience, it has saved the county billions of gallons of drinking water. 
Celebration of Independence Day to Alter Local Government Services in Orange County
The celebration of Independence Day on Friday, July 3 and Saturday, July 4 will affect several local government services in and around Orange County. Here’s a look at what typical services will and won’t be happening during the weekend: Town of Chapel Hill All Chapel Hill administrative offices will be closed Friday, July 3, as […]
Drone Shows and Parades: Here's What to Know Before Orange County's July 4 Celebrations
A variety of July 4 festivities are set to take place across Orange County. Here's how local governments are celebrating.
›