FDA Takes First Step Toward Expanding Sunscreen Options

Key Takeaways

• The FDA proposes adding a new sunscreen ingredient—the first such move in more than two decades.

• The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA) issued a statement supportin the expansion of safe, effective sunscreen choices for U.S. consumers.

• Dermatologists continue to stress broad-spectrum SPF 30+, shade, and protective clothing.

The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA) released a statement from organization president Susan C. Taylor, MD, FAAD commending the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for taking its first significant step in more than 20 years toward expanding safe and effective sunscreen options for U.S. consumers. 

The AADA statment followed an FDA announcement of its proposal to back new innovations in sunscreen development, as well as add a new sunscreen ingredient (bemotrizinol) to the market—an action the AADA views as a necessary step in protecting public health and reducing ultraviolet (UV) exposure risk.

"Because dermatologists see first-hand the impact that skin cancer has on patients and their families, they recommend everyone apply sunscreen, seek shade, and wear protective clothing to protect their skin from sunburn, early skin aging, and skin cancer," Dr. Taylor said in the statement. "The Academy recommends that everyone use a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher on skin not protected by clothing when outside."

While many nations currently offer nearly twice as many approved sunscreen ingredients as the United States, today’s FDA action represents meaningful progress toward giving Americans similar protections.

The AADA said that the move had been long-sought. 

"The Academy has been advocating for many years for the availability of more sunscreen options for U.S. consumers," the statement said. "The United States lags behind many other countries that have nearly twice as many approved sunscreen ingredients."