Consumer groups sceptical of sunscreen labels campaign[fr] 

The Commission recommended that the industry ensure a standardised and clearer labelling of sunscreens products in September 2006. The recommended labelling includes a standardised UV-A logo, a ban of terms such as 'sun blocker' or '100% protection' (as no sun-screen products can deliver total protection from UV radiation), and standardised verbal descriptions to provide guidance for consumers. 

A key message of the Commission's information campaign is that sun-screens are only one measure among several others that can protect the skin from UV radiation. 

"When applied properly, sun-screens can help to protect against skin cancer, but alone they are not enough. Other sensible precautions include avoiding long periods of exposure, staying in the shade at peak hours and protecting yourself with a hat and sunglasses," said Health Commissioner Markos Kyprianou. 

Colipa, a cosmetics industry association, supports the Commission recommendations and its information initiatives. 

However consumer organisation BEUC warns that this could cause more confusion for consumers who won't always be able to find the new European labelled sunscreens products in shops. 

"Furthermore, there is the risk that a number of products won’t adopt the new labelling, as it is not compulsory," said BEUC spokeswoman Laura Degallaix. 

The new labelling system will be introduced progressively during the summer of 2007. It should appear on 20% of products this year and the information campaign will be run by the Commission in co-operation with member states subsequently.