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AADA statement on FDA Notice for Environmental Impact Statement for certain sunscreen drug products


ROSEMONT, Ill. (May 14, 2021) — The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA) and its members are committed to the health and safety of the public including the prevention of skin cancer.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently published a notice on the study of environmental impacts associated with oxybenzone and octinoxate in sunscreen products. The Academy appreciates the efforts of the agency to thoroughly examine all relevant science before issuing a final sunscreen order on these ingredients.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., and unprotected exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays is a major risk factor. The AADA continues to focus on encouraging members of the public to protect themselves by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing — including a lightweight and long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses — and applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all exposed skin.

The AADA remains committed to supporting dermatologists in offering quality care and information to patients. We continue to track the FDA’s sunscreen actions and will provide updates and resources to our members.

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Contact

Kamilah Howard, (202) 615-5920, khoward@aad.org

Nicole Dobkin, (847) 240-1746, ndobkin@aad.org

About the AAD Headquartered in Rosemont, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology, founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 20,000 physicians worldwide, the AAD is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the AAD at (888) 462-DERM (3376) or aad.org. Follow the AAD on Facebook (American Academy of Dermatology), Twitter (@AADskin), Instagram (@AADskin1), or YouTube (AcademyofDermatology).