FDA Warns Sunscreen Pills Are a Scam

On Tuesday, the Food and Drug Administration warned companies that manufacture sunscreen pills that they are putting people at risk. Federal regulators think that the pills and capsules cannot protect the human body against the sun.

There’s no pill or capsule that can replace your sunscreen,

said FDA commissioner Scott Gottlieb

The FDA also said that a sunscreen pill that claims it can keep harmful UV radiation at bay would be considered a drug. But drugs need to be first approved by the federal agency, which is not the case with sunscreen pills.

The regulator sent warning letters to several firms including Sunergetic, Advanced Skin Brightening Formula, Solaricare, and Sunsafe Rx. According to the agency, these companies offer their clients a “false sense of security” when they tell them that a dietary supplement could prevent sunburn, skin cancer, or premature aging.

Sunscreen Pills Need Regulatory Approval

The companies were asked to correct their marketing tactics and review labeling to ensure that their business remains legal under the federal law.

In the U.S. skin cancer is the most widespread type of cancer. Around 20% of Americans could develop the condition in their lifetime. Ultraviolet light from the sun or tanning salons can boost the risk of skin cancer.

It is not the first time a company is trying to sell UV protection products that are not effective. Three years ago, Jessica Alba’s company marketed a brand of natural sunscreen that didn’t work.

What’s more, none of the said companies are part of the body that represents sunscreen makers in the United States, the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC). PCPC’s guidelines show that a product needs to have the FDA’s nod before it is marketed as safe to consumers.
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