New FDA Sunscreen Regulations Questions Answered by Dr. Rendon

Recently the FDA announced new regulations for sunscreen. Among the changes, the terms "sunblock," "waterproof," and ""sweatproof" are no longer gong to be used. Also, there's a cap being placed on SPF levels at 50. So we reached out to dermatologist Dr. Marta Rendon to ask her what this all means.  Dr. Rendon had some answers for us:

1)What will the new fda regulations mean for consumers?

 These new regulations will help consumers have a better understanding of what to expect from the sunscreens allowing them to make better decisions about usage and effectiveness

2)Why is there a cap being placed on spf 50? 
There is not enough data to show that products with a SPF of 50 or higher provide greater sun protection. 

3) Why are the terms waterproof,sunblock and sweatproof not being used anymore?  
Products with these terms overstate their effectiveness therefore should not  be used.

4)What is the lowest spf we should be using?   
 If you have a light complexion then spf of 30; a darker complexion could get away with spf of 15-25.

5) How frequently should we apply? 

Every  two  hours as our body metabolizes the product.

6) Are there any ingredients in our moisturizers or lotions that can actually stop our sunscreens from working?  

Yes. there are ingredients that are not compatible but most reputable companies test their formulas before they are placed on the market.  

Dr. Marta I. Rendon, clinical director and founder of the Rendon Center for Dermatology and Aesthetic Medicine.

Dr. Rendon serves as Procter & Gamble’s Head & Shoulders’ global celebrity dermatologist and has previously served as a speaker, advisor to and physician trainer for 3M Pharmaceutical, Allergan, Galderma, GlaxoSmithKline, Janssen, Johnson & Johnson, L’Oreal, Merck, Procter & Gamble, Novartis, Ortho Dermatological, Pfizer, Salu, Schering, Sirrus Pharmaceutical, Unilever and Vichy.

Thanks Dr. Rendon.

What is the highest spf you girls use?

I stick to spf 30. 


Hugs, 


Milly