2020 Update on Sunscreen Compliance With American Academy of Dermatology Recommendations

The study conducted in 2020 assessed the compliance of sunscreens sold by major US retailers, Walmart and Walgreens, with the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommendations, following FDA labeling updates. It found significant improvements in adherence, with 91.2% of Walmart and 92.1% of Walgreens sunscreens meeting all AAD criteria, which include SPF ≥30, broad-spectrum coverage, and water resistance. However, products marketed for tanning and bronzing showed poor compliance, with only 20% and 57.1% meeting the recommendations, respectively. The study highlighted the need for consumers to be cautious with tanning or bronzing sunscreens, as they are less likely to provide adequate protection.