MEDIA ADVISORY: Yale Expert Responds to Stringent New FDA Rules for Sunscreen Labeling

Picking the right sunscreen protection just got a bit less confusing, thanks to new regulations announced today by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that require tougher standards for sunscreen labeling and a higher bar for claiming skin cancer protection. David J. Leffell, M.D., professor and chief of the Section of Dermatologic Surgery and Cutaneous Oncology at the Yale School of Medicine, is available to speak about the new rules and may be reached at the following e-mail and phone numbers:

• David J. Leffell, M.D., the David P. Smith Professor of Dermatology and Professor of Surgery (Otolaryngology and Plastic) Office: 203-785-7999 Cell: 675-2935 Pager: 203-370-6713

Current sunscreen labels only show the level of protection against ultraviolet B (UVB) rays, which are primarily responsible for sunburns. The new rules aim to inform consumers about protection against both UVB and ultraviolet A (UVA) rays. Sunscreens labeled “broad spectrum” will be required to protect against both. Sunscreens that don’t offer both forms of protection will be required to have a warning to consumers that the product hasn’t been shown to prevent skin cancer.

“These rules will provide a consistent standard among different products,” said Leffell, a member of Yale Cancer Center. “The new labeling guidelines will help consumers make intelligent choices with respect to sunscreens. Importantly, sunscreen use is just one component of a comprehensive sun protection program which should include avoiding the sun during peak hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and wearing sun protective clothing such as brimmed hats.”

Leffell is the author of “Total Skin: The Definitive Guide to Whole Skin Care for Life,” and has a website devoted to helping people learn about skin cancer prevention and treatment: http://www.totalskinandhealth.com/