Experts in radiation and melanoma are warning consumers about the deceptive labels on aerosol sunscreens. These products often boast high SPF ratings that are difficult to achieve in real-world conditions. Skin cancer experts are advising Australians to opt for creams and lotions instead of aerosol sunscreens, which are popular among parents and those wanting to apply sunscreen over makeup.
Associate Professor Craig Sinclair, director of the World Health Organisation Collaborative Centre for UV Radiation at Cancer Council Victoria, is particularly concerned about the use of aerosol sunscreens, especially by parents with young children. The Therapeutic Goods Administration recently approved changes to the Sunscreen Standard in Australia, requiring aerosol and pump pack sunscreens to be labelled with instructions on proper use. However, experts believe these changes are not sufficient to regulate aerosol sunscreens effectively.
All sunscreen sold in Australia is tested as a lotion, regardless of its eventual packaging. The product is tested using a specific amount of product per square centimeter of skin. This means that a 200 milliliter aerosol sunscreen can receive the same SPF rating as a lotion, even though it may be difficult to extract the necessary amount of product from spraying the can. This can lead to consumers not receiving the level of sun protection they believe they are getting.
The concerns surrounding aerosol sunscreens stem from the difficulty of obtaining the stated SPF on the label in real-world conditions. Experts recommend applying sunscreen generously and frequently to ensure adequate protection from the sun’s harmful rays. Aerosol sunscreens may not provide as much protection as claimed on the packaging, leading to potential risks of sunburn and skin damage for consumers.
The Cancer Council and the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency believe that the current regulations for aerosol sunscreens are inadequate. They are calling for stricter regulations to ensure that consumers are receiving accurate and effective sun protection from these products. Proper application techniques, such as holding the container a specific distance from the body and applying until the skin feels wet, are important for maximizing the efficacy of sunscreen.
In conclusion, consumers should be cautious when using aerosol sunscreens and consider alternative forms of sun protection, such as creams and lotions. The deceptive labels on aerosol sunscreens can lead to inadequate sun protection and potential risks of skin damage. Experts are calling for better regulation of these products to ensure that consumers are properly informed and protected from the sun’s harmful rays.
