Following a 2006 Commission Recommendation on sunscreens, the Commission is once again acting to raise consumer awareness of the risks of UV radiation and the importance of good protection for them and their children when enjoying the sun.
Pictograms and labels have been developed with sunscreen manufacturers to help consumers grasp the essentials quickly. These appear on practically all sunscreens produced in 2009.
A safety check is being carried out on an important sunscreen ingredient, nano titanium dioxide. The Commission's independent scientific committees are assessing recent data – a challenge for all since evaluation of nano materials is not (yet) routine. Conclusions are expected for the end of 2009.
The European Code Against Cancer, which is up for review and possible revision, includes recommendations regarding sun exposure. There are currently two EU-funded pojects on skin cancer: EPIDERM (European Prevention Initiative for Dermatological Malignancies) and EUROSUN (Quantification of Sun Exposure in Europe and of its effects on Health).
Finally, a joint project has started with eleven Member States and Norway to examine consumer exposure to UV in sun-tanning studios and at home through tanning lamps. Results should be available at the end of this year.
Whatever you do this summer, make sure you are sun-smart: Protect yourself and your children.
