Almost Half of Sunscreens 'Do Not Offer Protection'

Almost Half of Sunscreens Do Not Offer Protection Research has shown that less than half of sunscreen products on the market can protect the user against harmful ultraviolet rays, it has been reported.

The investigation by Mintel Global New Products Database (GNPD) found that many of the manufacturers provided holidaymakers with protection against UVB rays - which cause the skin to burn - but others did not defend UVA rays, which cause premature skin ageing.

Nina Goad of the British Association of Dermatologists said: "It's UVA that causes sun-induced skin ageing and also contributes towards skin cancer, but the SPF does not show protection against UVA."

She recommended that people look for the stars or a circular UVA symbol to be sure that the product offered the correct level of UV defence.

Last month, the Chicago Tribune reported that sunscreens should not be used as the first line of defence and that people should stay out of the sun during the peak hours from 10am until 4pm.

Travel Industry News posted on 05/08/2008 07:55:49