Today's active lifestyles include many outdoor activities. But remember: the sun can rob your skin of its natural beauty. Although sunbathing is not done as it once was, many people do not realize the possible cumulative effects of repeated and unprotected sun exposure. Dermatologists agree that applying sunscreen daily is essential to safeguard your skin's health and appearance. And dermatologists recommend daily use of a broad spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15. Broad spectrum protection means sunscreen protection against both UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays are primarily known for their burning effects, while UVA rays are known for their aging effects on the skin. But damage from both UVA and UVB rays have been associated with skin cancer. Sunscreen application (along with cleansing and moisturizing) should be an essential part of your morning skin care routine. It's one of the simplest things you can do to help ensure beautiful, healthy skin for life.

AVEENO® CONTINUOUS PROTECTION™ Sun Care is a truly revolutionary line of sunscreens. Although all sunscreens need to be reapplied every few hours, some sunscreens need to be reapplied more frequently to maintain protection, since they may break down when exposed to the sun. But AVEENO® CONTINUOUS PROTECTION™ Sunblock Lotions with ACTIVE PHOTOBARRIER COMPLEX™ are scientifically shown to maintain broad spectrum sun protection over time. So now your sunblock will last longer, and so will your fun.

For Babies and Children Pediatricians recommend parents to protect their children from the sun's harmful rays. Sun damage begins early and accumulates over a lifetime. Infants and young children's skin are not fully developed so exposure to the sun can be especially harmful. Babies younger than 6 months should be kept out of direct sunlight. Move your baby to the shade or under a tree, or an umbrella. If your baby needs to be outdoors, discuss sunscreen use and other options with your pediatrician. Pediatricians recommend parents protect their babies' skin with sunscreen after 6 months of age. And remember to keep babies and young children covered as much as possible with a hat and other clothing. Protect their skin with sunscreen, and teach your children about sun safety at an early age.

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AVEENO ACTIVE NATURALS

Understanding the FDA Sunscreen Labeling Changes

In an effort to provide consumers with the information they need to make informed choices when selecting sunscreens, the FDA has instituted new testing measures to determine a product’s effectiveness, along with labeling requirements reflecting those results.

New FDA Rule
What It Means
Broad Spectrum
  • Sunscreen products that pass the new FDA test to provide balanced UVA/UVB protection will be labeled as "Broad Spectrum."
  • Both UVB and UVA rays contribute to sunburn, skin cancer, and premature skin aging.
  • Sunburn is primarily caused by UVB rays.
Use Claims
  • Products that are labeled both as Broad Spectrum with SPF values of 15 or higher may state that they reduce the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging when used with other sun protection measures and when used as directed.
  • Any products that fail to meet the Broad Spectrum guidelines or have an SPF of 2 to 14 must include a warning that the product has not been shown to help prevent skin cancer or early skin aging.
Label Updates
  • The terms "waterproof," "sweat-proof" and "sunblock" will no longer appear on packaging.
  • If a sunscreen product is water resistant, it can be placed on the label but it will also include the amount of time before it should be reapplied (40 or 80 minutes).
  • All sunscreens will be required to have a Drug Facts section on the back and/or side of the container that will include Active Ingredients
    and Use Claims.

In June 2012, you’ll start to see the changes outlined here. Because of the logistics involved with producing new packaging and shipping products nationwide, it may take longer for sunscreens with new labeling to appear at stores in your area. During this transition, you can continue to use your current AVEENO® sunscreens with the confidence that they are safe and effective.