Sunscreen Recalls Issued For Summer

(NewsInsights.org) – When the summer months roll around, experts caution that sunscreen is a must. It prevents damaging UV rays from penetrating your skin and causing sunburn, premature aging, and some cancers. However, it’s important to check recall notices, too, as hundreds of brands have been flagged for various issues.

One of the brands that issued a recall is Suntegrity Skincare. The FDA announced that the company was taking precautions after testing revealed that there were higher than acceptable amounts of microbiological mold in some of its tubes. The fungus Aspergillus Sydowii could cause a skin infection, eye infection, or potential allergic reaction. So far, no adverse reactions have been reported. The product, Impeccable Skin Sunscreen Foundation, comes in 2-ounce orange tubes and affects lot numbers 115BU, 107NU, 107IV, 109NU, 113SA, 117BU, 114SA, 106BR, and 101MO. The identifier can be found on the back of the tube at the top, where it’s sealed.

Some other sunscreens have been called into question because of the ingredients they contain that can compromise and damage reefs. While they may say “reef friendly,” there’s no regulation around using the term, so it’s better to be safe than sorry. To protect the vital underwater structures, avoid products that contain:

Octinoxate
Oxybenzone
Homosalate
Octocrylene
Parabens
PABA
4-methylbenzylidene camphor
Triclosan
Microplastics, including exfoliating beads
Nanoparticles, including “nano-sized” titanium or zinc

When it comes to choosing a sunscreen for your use, there are several things to look for, per The American Academy of Dermatology. First, find one that offers broad spectrum coverage, as it safeguards against UVA and UVB rays, both of which are associated with cancer. The SPF level should be at least 30, and choose one that’s either water resistant or very water resistant for a period of at least 40 to 80 minutes. No brands are waterproof, and it’s necessary to lather them up again after swimming or sweating.