Brussels, 04/05/2006 (Agence Europe) - The current labelling system for sunscreen products on the Community market suffers from a number of deficiencies. For example, it is difficult for consumers to identify whether a product provides protection against UVB radiation responsible for sunburn as well as against UVA radiation, which cause premature ageing of the skin, upset the immune system and are a major risk factor for skin cancer. The sun protection factor (SPF) only protects against sunburn (UVB radiation). Also, there are no uniform testing methods to compare the level of protection against UVA, with each manufacturer applying its own measuring system and protection indication. Furthermore, “sunblock” and “total protection” appear on many products misleading consumers in so far as no sunscreen truly gives complete protection against ultraviolet radiation. In this context, sun products often give the false impression that they provide sufficient protection for babies and young children. Finally, the indications given 0on bottles of sunscreen products often omit to mention the need to renew application at regular intervals.
On Thursday, the European Commission therefore launched an initiative aimed at improving the labelling of sunscreen products. The initiative aims to: - allow consumers to compare products, with UVA protection being indicated in a uniform way based on standardised testing methods; - do away with claims giving the impression of total protection, such as “sunblocker”; - and include clear and understandable warnings and usage instructions on labels so that the consumer knows how to use a sunscreen product correctly.
After open consultation in public on Thursday, the Commission will publish recommendations giving the industry directions in order to ensure that it applies, from 2007, simple, comprehensive and uniform labelling rules for sunscreen products. “This will give consumers clear and coherent information without creating unnecessary red-tape for industry”, Industry Commissioner Günter Verheugen states in a press release.
For further information: http: //ec.europa.eu/enterprise/cosmetics/sunscreens/index_en.htm.