Latebreakers: FDA proposes rule for sunscreen products

The FDA has proposed a new regulation that sets standards for OTC sunscreen products. The proposal provides a rating system for UVA sunscreens of one to four stars: one (low), two (medium), three (high), and four (highest). A sunscreen that doesn't provide at least one star of protection would bear a "no UVA protection" marking on the front label near the sun protection factor (SPF) value. The proposed rule would also allow new combinations of active ingredients and asks for comments on the issue of nanoparticles. The agency is accepting comments until Nov. 26. Comments must include Docket No. 1978N-0038 and may be sent to http://www.fda.gov/dockets/ecomments/.