Introduction to Sunscreen Warning
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued warning letters to five popular sunscreen brands over their mousse products.
The federal regulator is also urging consumers not to use the foam-style products because they may not be effective in protecting the skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Warning to Consumers
“Beware of sunscreen products in mousse form because they might not be effective," the FDA wrote in a post on X as they announced the warning letters sent to companies marketing the mousse-form products.
Sunscreen Regulation
Sunscreens are classified as over-the-counter drugs in the U.S. because they are intended to prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of skin cancer and premature skin aging. That categorization comes with strict regulations around how they’re formulated and marketed.
Approved Sunscreen Formats
The FDA notes that sunscreen formats approved in the U.S. include oil, lotion, cream, gel, butter, paste, ointment, stick, spray and powder. However, there is no current authorization of sunscreen in "foam, mousse or whip dosage form," and the makers of the mousse sunscreens did not receive specific agency authorization.
Companies Affected
Among the companies that received the letter was popular brand Supergoop! over its Play SPF 50 Body Mousse.
"At Supergoop! we remain committed to innovation in sun care and the highest standards of product efficacy and safety," the company said in a statement to NBC. "The recent communication from the FDA regarding our PLAY SPF 50 Body Mousse is focused on product labeling and has nothing to do with its safety, effectiveness, or formula. We are working closely with the FDA to resolve this matter as we continue to uphold the high standards our consumers expect from us."
Other Companies
Vacation Inc., which makes "Classic Whip Sunscreens" that is marketed as "dessert for your skin," also received a letter. The FDA said the products package, which resembles whipped cream cans, "can mislead consumers into mistaking the products for food, which is of particular concern as this increases the risk of accidental ingestion."
The FDA also issued warning letters to K & Care Organics, which makes the Botao brand kids sunscreen and Sun & Shine products, as well as Kalani Sunwear and Fallien Cosmeceutical, which owns the brand TiZo, over their mousse sunscreen products.
Company Response
The companies have 15 days to response to the FDA’s letter, laying out the steps it has taken to address any violations, or provide information on why it believes it is not in violation. If they fail to comply, the companies risk their products being possibly pulled from the market.
Vacation, K & Care Organics, Kalani Sunwear and Fallien Cosmeceuticals did not immediately respond to NBC’s request for comment.
How Sunscreens Work
Mineral-based sunscreens mechanically block UVA/UVB rays, while chemical sunscreens absorb rays and turn them into heat.
Conclusion
The FDA’s warning letters to sunscreen companies highlight the importance of adhering to regulations and ensuring the safety and efficacy of products. Consumers should be aware of the potential risks associated with mousse sunscreens and take necessary precautions to protect their skin from the sun.
FAQs
Q: What is the issue with mousse sunscreens?
A: The FDA has issued warning letters to companies marketing mousse sunscreens, stating that they may not be effective in protecting the skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Q: Which companies received warning letters?
A: Supergoop!, Vacation Inc., K & Care Organics, Kalani Sunwear, and Fallien Cosmeceutical received warning letters from the FDA.
Q: What is the risk of using mousse sunscreens?
A: The risk of using mousse sunscreens is that they may not provide adequate protection against the sun’s UV rays, which can increase the risk of sunburn, skin cancer, and premature skin aging.
Q: What should consumers do?
A: Consumers should be aware of the potential risks associated with mousse sunscreens and take necessary precautions to protect their skin from the sun, such as using approved sunscreen formats and following the FDA’s guidelines.
