Recently, the U.S. FDA (Food and Drug Administration) issued new labeling requirements for sunscreens and sunblock, specifically the SPF Sunscreen ratings, and whether sunscreens and sunblocks are useful in protecting us from skin cancer and sunburn, in terms of exposure to UVA and UVB rays.

What it boils down to is this:  you cannot trust the sunscreen SPF labels!  Some may protect from one of the two UVA or UVB rays, or both, but until next year, the US FDA only requires that sunscreens offer protection from UVB rays.  That’s the kind that cause sunburn and possibly skin cancer.  The UVA rays can penetrate deeper into our skin and cause problems, too.

Also, there will be no more labels that say “waterproof” or “water resistant.”  That’s because there is no such thing as a waterproof sunscreen.  You must apply a lot of it, before and after getting wet, to get the most protection.

SO – what to do?  Here’s what the FDA and Consumer Reports recommend:

— use a sunscreen with an SPF rating of 15 or higher.

— use a sunscreen or sunblock that is effective for both UVA and UVB sun rays.

— check out the Consumer Reports (via ABC News) http://abcnews.go.com/Health/SkinCare/consumer-reports-health-ranks-sunscreens/story?id=13674815

list of those that offer protection from both UVA and UVB rays.

— don’t trust SPF ratings of over 30.  Those that are 50 may not be any more effective than one that’s ranked SPF 30.

— consider using sunscreens that contain zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide.  They don’t conceal, but are considered more effective.

— wear protective clothing, a hat, and use a sun umbrella in direct sunlight.  Cover your skin as much as possible.

Ultimately, don’t be exposed to much sun!  Stay in the shade, and forget the golden tan.