FDA Calls For Stricter Standards For Sunscreen

DETROIT (WWJ) - The FDA has ordered tougher new standards for those who make sunscreen. Henry Ford Hospital dermatologist Dr. Henry Lim says the government has issued stricter standards for using the term "broad spectrum."

"There is no standardized testing as to what that broad spectrum actually means. It is not very consistent and it's very difficult to tell consumers that this sunscreen is good, and that broad spectrum sunscreen is not so good," Lim told WWJ Newsradio 950.

Companies must now prove that sunscreen will block both types of ultra violet rays in order to use the term.

Dr. Lim said there are rays that burn and rays that age the skin, but both can cause cancer.

"People could buy a very high SPF sunscreen, they would not easily get sunburned. But if the sunscreen doesn't have very good UVA protection, they could be exposed to ultraviolet A, and therefore could still get sun damage on the skin," he said.

The new standards will take effect within the next year.