Rating the 4-Star UVA Protection Rating System

The sun protection factor (SPF) currently displayed on sunscreen labels has been a well-recognized measurement of a sunscreen’s ability to provide protection from UVB radiation for many years. Recent findings regarding the role of UVA radiation in photoaging and the development of skin cancer have prompted the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to improve the testing methods and labeling of UVA protection on sunscreens. In 2007, the FDA proposed changes to address these concerns; however, those changes have not been received with unanimous support, leading to a delay in their acceptance and further approval. This article reviews some of the concerns about the proposed rating systems for UVB and UVA protection, including how these new proposed rating systems may increase confusion among consumers.