In an attempt to update its safety standards, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently announced plans to modernize its injunctions on sunscreens.

Skin cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in the U.S. according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and it is also one of the most preventable. The FDA hopes to curb the number of skin cancer diagnoses each year by providing consumers with the information necessary to choose the right products for them.

Janet Woodcock, M.D., the FDA’s director for its Center for Drug Evaluation and Research explained that a combination of highly effective products and alternative sun protection measures should be employed to prevent melanoma.

"Most skin cancers are caused by sun exposure. FDA encourages consumers to protect themselves," she said. "Not only should consumers regularly apply and reapply sunscreens with Broad Spectrum and SPF of 15 or higher, they should also limit sun exposure."

Broad spectrum sun protection blocks both Ultra-violet A and B rays, and can help save individuals from racking up health insurance bills by saving skin from sun damage. The FDA’s regulations will make it easier for consumers to choose sunscreens that offer broad spectrum protection and the required amount of SPF defense of SPF 15 or greater.