FDA Updates Sunscreen Rules and Removes Two Ingredients After Safety Review
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration FDA has announced an update to the rules governing ingredients in over-the-counter sunscreens, following the issuance of a final order removing PABA and trolamine salicylate from the list of ingredients that may be used in these products.
The agency said its review of the available data concluded that the risks associated with using the two ingredients outweigh their benefits in the context of sunscreens marketed under the U.S. regulatory framework for nonprescription products.
Do consumers need to change their products immediately?
According to the FDA, consumers do not need to take urgent action, as the agency is not aware of any sunscreens currently on the U.S. market that contain the two ingredients. At the same time, it emphasized that sun protection remains an important part of preventing damage from ultraviolet radiation.
Health authorities generally recommend using sunscreen as part of a broader range of protective measures, including avoiding prolonged sun exposure, wearing protective clothing and seeking shade whenever possible.
What does the update mean for the skin-care industry?
The change illustrates that the ingredients in skin-care products do not remain unchanged from a regulatory standpoint indefinitely; rather, they are subject to review as additional data on safety and effectiveness emerge. It also follows an expansion of the sunscreen options available in the United States during 2026, including authorization for the use of new ingredients within approved regulatory frameworks.
For consumers, reading the label and choosing a product suited to their skin type and intended use remain essential steps, along with consulting a health-care professional in cases of allergies or recurring skin problems.
