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FAQsSunscreen Labeling Changes
In June 2011, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced final rulings for the labeling of sunscreen products that will take effect in June 2012. As the #1 dermatologist recommended suncare brand, Neutrogena® wants to help explain how these rulings will impact your favorite products containing sun protection (SPF).
On this site you can learn about some of the changes FDA requires for labeling sunscreen products.
You'll start to see the changes outlined here in June 2012. Because of the logistics involved with producing new labels and shipping products nationwide, it may take longer for sunscreens with new labels to appear at stores in your area. During this transition, you can continue to use your current Neutrogena® sunscreens with the confidence that they are safe and effective.
At Neutrogena, we believe consumers should use sunscreen as part of a year-round approach to skin protection as it offers an important step in helping to prevent the epidemic rise in skin cancer. We have a long history of developing advanced suncare products based on clinical results. Neutrogena® sun care products will follow the new FDA labeling rules. As we make the move to new labels, you can continue to trust all Neutrogena® products are safe and effective for daily or recreational sun protection. To learn more about our range of sunscreen products, click here.
We encourage you to check out our list of Frequently Asked Questions. You can also call our consumer hotline at 1-800-299-4786.
- Sunscreen products that pass the new FDA test to provide balanced UVA/UVB protection will be labeled as "Broad Spectrum."
- Both UVB and UVA rays contribute to sunburn, skin cancer, and premature skin aging.
- Sunburn is primarily caused by UVB rays.
- Products that are both Broad Spectrum and have SPF values of 15 or higher may claim that they help prevent skin cancer and early skin aging when used with other sun protection measures and when used as directed.
- Products that have SPF values between 2 and 14 may be labeled as Broad Spectrum if they pass the required test – but must include a warning that this product has been shown to help prevent sunburn.
- Any products that fail to meet the Broad Spectrum test or have an SPF of 2 to 14 must include a warning that the product has not been shown to help prevent skin cancer or early skin aging.
- The terms "waterproof," "sweat-proof" and "sunblock" will no longer appear on packaging.
- If a sunscreen product is water resistant, it can be placed on the label but it should be combined with the effective (40 or 80 minutes).
- All sunscreens will be required to have a Drug Facts section on the back and/or side of the container that will include Active Ingredients and Use Claims.
