Fun under the sun? The FDA is encouraging the consumers to buy sunscreens that offer “broad spectrum” protection.  The old SPF rating measured only UVB radiation but now, UVA radiation should be included.

UVA and UVB  are two forms of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UVB radiation is that of shortwave rays which affect only the outer layer of the skin and cause sunburns and the tanning of skin. UVA radiation is made up of long-wave rays that penetrate to deeper levels of the skin.

• Even though some sun screen makers will launch their new labels early, the new rules will take effect by summer 2012.
• The “broad spectrum” line will appear only on sunscreens tested for a minimum standard of UVA protection.
• All sunscreens will carry their SPF rating and for products without the broad-spectrum claim, SPF will rate only UVB protection. On sunscreens with broad spectrum, higher SPF numbers mean more protection against UVB and more protection against UVA.
• Water resistant-sun screens must show how long they last after a person has been swimming or sweating: 40 minutes or 80 minutes.  Those that are not water resistant will have to say so in the “fact box” on the side or back of the package.
• A fact box listing warnings and other important information in an easy-to-find location will be found in sunscreens.