French cosmetologists urge the government to change the labeling on French-made skincare and makeup products; labels may also include application tips and general safety advice.
Following requests from the French ministry of health and consumer association L’Union Fédérale des Consommateurs-Que Choisir, the cosmetology commission of the French agency for the safety of health products, the AFSSAPS, has drawn up recommendations for the labeling of suncare products.
The commission advises that suncare products should stress the UVA and UVB protection they offer.
Labeling should also be harmonized, it urges, to facilitate better product comparison among consumers. Four distinct protection levels are suggested: weak (SPF 6–14), medium (SPF 15–29), high (SPF 30–59) and very high (SPF 60+).
Information on the correct use of suncare products should also be included with the product, the AFSSAPS has found.
Consumers should be informed that reapplication should be regular and follow physical activity, perspiration, bathing and intense exposure to sun — all the factors which reduce sun protection effectiveness.
The commission also recommends that a consumer guide be produced enabling the consumer to decide which level of protection best suits his/her skin type.
The recommendations have been brought to the attention of the European Commission.
What is means for us, reformed sun junkies? Very soon YSL, Sisley and Lancome labels of products with SPF may carry basic application tips, advice and friendly reminders that application should be even and commenced from the beginning of exposure to the sun.
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