What’s the hold up on a better sunscreen? The FDA.

“Since the 1990s, advanced sunscreens that counter the UV-A rays that contribute to carcinomas have been widely sold in Europe, Canada and Asia. Americans must rely on an older generation that merely prevents sunburn, because since 2002 the FDA has refused to provide up-or-down answers for eight pending applications to approve the superior compounds. . . ”

“The FDA is demanding more studies and safety data from manufacturers, despite decades of world-wide experience. The latest batch of rejections is particularly notable because one of the ingredients, ecamsule, has been approved by the FDA since 2006 as a prescription drug. Sunscreen makers simply want FDA permission to use it in over-the-counter products.”

Wall St. Journal story here.