Tanning Products: FDA Warning Labels

Maintaining a tan tone has become a rather popular trend, with so many different tanning products on the market it is easy for people to satisfy their desires. However, most people are not aware that some products contain harmful chemicals and can be very dangerous if used improperly. The FDA has taken steps in recent years to increase awareness about this danger with labels warning consumers of risks including, warning labels on tanning products and risks associated with using these products without protection from harmful UV rays.

Consumer Products Warning Label

Warning labels inform consumers of the dangers of a product, such as, the dangers of sun exposure and what can happen if a consumer does not use sunscreen or wear protective clothing when going outside. It is important that consumers are aware how the products they are using can affect them. Some tanning products contain a list of ingredients that include items that can potentially be harmful. Warning labels should be added in order to clarify that certain products may potentially be dangerous for consumers. In recent years, there has been a large increase in the number of people who tan for cosmetic purposes. This increase has caused a rise in the risk of skin cancer and premature aging. The popularity of these services has also given rise to numerous laws regulating their use and sale.

Required FDA Statement

For tanning products that do not contain sunscreen ingredients, the following FDA statement label must be added: "Warning--This product does not contain sunscreen and does not protect against sunburn. Repeated exposure of unprotected skin while tanning may increase the risk of skin aging, skin cancer, and other harmful effects to the skin even if you do not burn." (Title 21 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Section 740.19) It is extremely important for this information to be labeled for many reasons. For example, if a tanning product does not include a list of ingredients along with a statement of whether sunscreen is present or not,  how can a consumer know if the product is safe? A consumer may assume there are sunscreen ingredients already in the item, simply due to the fact that some tanning products are meant to be used outside in the sunlight. To avoid the potential harm of a consumer, it is best to follow regulations and label products accordingly.

Personal Injury Attorney

If you or someone you know has noticed mislabeled products, feel free to contact a Glendale Attorney at Kaass Law. We are here to help you settle your case. Give our firm a call at 310-943-1171.