An improved labelling system for sunscreen products is being launched from summer 2007. Clearer labelling will be seen on up to 20 per cent of bottles this summer and the new regime will be fully in place by summer 2008. This, along with an information campaign by the European Commission in partnership with Member States will help consumers make better informed choices when it comes to sun protection.

Terms frequently used by the cosmetics industry such as "sunblock" and "total protection" are misleading and will be banned. "No sunscreen, no matter how high the factor, can offer 100 per cent protection" say Cancer Research UK. New standardised categories are to be used alongside the sun protection factor (SPF) labelling in order to assist consumers in their choice. For example, 'low' protection means SPF 6 to SPF 10, 'medium' will cover SPF 15 to 25, 'high' up to SPF 50 and 'very high' from SPF 50 upward. Products will also be required to provide better information regarding UV-A protection. The sun protection factor only refers to the level of protection from UV-B rays, which cause sunburn, and a high SPF does not necessarily guarantee protection from UV-A radiation, the cause of premature ageing of the skin and an equally significant threat when it comes to skin cancer. A new UV-A seal, displayed on bottles, will guarantee that a product offers a UV-A protection factor at least one third of its sun protection factor.

In addition, the information campaign urges Europeans to take further measures to protect themselves and their children when out in the sun and not to rely on sunscreen alone. Health Commissioner Markos Kyprianou said ""When applied properly, sunscreens can help to protect against skin cancer, but alone they are not enough. Other sensible precautions include avoiding long periods of exposure, staying in the shade at peak hours and protecting yourself with a hat and sunglasses."

Europe sees approximately 3.2 million new cases of cancer every year, according to the World Health Organisation and International Agency for Research on Cancer. Over 2000 people die from skin cancer each year in the UK alone, yet a recent survey in France revealed that only 56 per cent of individuals use sun cream, only 48% wear a hat whilst in the sun and 12% do not take any precautions at all.

Walueurope
11 July 2007

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