| America is behind on sunscreen technology. Sunscreens in countries like Japan, South Korea and France often include newer chemical filters. Some of them do a better job at protecting from UVA rays that cause cancer and wrinkles than the ones in the U.S. A 1938 law is behind why Americans can't get their hands on these products. ☀️ In the U.S., sunscreens must be tested on animals and classified as over-the-counter drugs. In most of the world they are considered cosmetics. ☀️ Companies can be wary of the FDA process because of the cost of and potential consumer backlash to animal testing. ☀️ There's a lot of misinformation surrounding the safety of common sunscreen ingredients. ☀️ The SPF, or sun protection factor, on a sunscreen bottle only indicates how well it protects from UVB rays, which cause sunburns. Although U.S. sunscreens labeled "broad spectrum" should, in theory, block cancer-causing UVA light, some studies have shown they fail to meet the EU's higher standards. |