A coalition of dermatologists, sunscreen manufacturers, and consumer advocates known as Public Access to SunScreens is urging federal authorities to expedite FDA's approval process for active sunscreen ingredients. According to The Washington Post, the last time that FDA approved a new sunscreen ingredient was in 1999. At least eight applications are pending, including some for ingredients that provide broader protection from UV rays. The article says FDA's review of sunscreen ingredients lags behind similar regulatory processes of other nations, meaning that many beachgoers in Europe and South America have more effective sunscreen than their American counterparts. On March 13, U.S. Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI) and Rep. Ed Whitfield (R-KY) introduced bills aimed at correcting the lags. If enacted, the Sunscreen Innovation Act would amend the Food Drug & Cosmetic Act to impose time limits on FDA's review of potential sunscreen ingredients.
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