Brussels, 30/06/2009 (Agence Europe) - In this summer period, the European Commission is calling on sun loving consumers to be alert when buying and using sun protection creams. The European Commission explained that new rules on product labelling have been introduced into the EU and should help citizens make informed choices and choose products that comply with the new rules. The Commission also had a few wise words of advice.
In a press release, the European Commissioner for consumer protection declared, “be fully aware that sunscreen is only one of a number of measures that are necessary for effective protection against the sun, and look out for the new labels and make an informed decision about the sunscreen products you use for yourself and your family this summer."
The new labels - including a new UV-A logo or seal on bottles and a ban on misleading terms such as "sun blocker" or "total protection" - are a response to a Commission recommendation on sunscreen products adopted in September 2006.
Standardised verbal descriptors (“low” - “medium” - “high” and “very high” protection) should be used alongside the traditional sun protection factors (SPF) to provide better guidance for the choice of the appropriate sunscreen product. The so-called 'sun protection factor' (SPF) only refers to equal levels of sunburn (UV-B radiation) and not to similar effects from UV-A radiation. Labelling of UV-A protection should indicate a level of minimum protection against UV-A, a cause of premature skin ageing and interferences with the human immune system. The cosmetics industry is beginning to provide this indication in the labelling. Sun creams and milks cannot create miracles and it is also appropriate to protect oneself against the sun by avoiding prolonged exposure in peak hours, use a hat and sun glasses and not expose babies and young children to the sun, explains the Commission. (A.N./trans/rh)