NEW WRINKLE IN SUNSCREEN
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Rating
NEW WRINKLE IN SUNSCREEN
Our Review Summary
This story discusses the recent FDA approval of the sunscreen mexoryl, which reportedly provides better UVA protection than sunscreens currently available over the counter in the U.S. We are told why this sunscreen is better than existing sunscreens for preventing sun damage and certain types of skin cancer, but we are not told about studies that prove the newer sunscreen does a better job than existing UVA/UVB sunscreens with a higher SPF. FDA approval was based on 28 studies, but there is still some disagreement among scientists on how to measure UVA protection and its relative value. However, data from at least one of these studies comparing mexoryl against existing sunscreens should be available and noted in this story.
The story cites two dermatologists who discuss the value of mexoryl in sunscreen, and they appropriately caution readers about continued vigilance of avoiding excessive sun exposure. The story discusses the importance of both UVB and UVA sun protection and mentions other forms of chemical and physical sunscreens. The story also notes that those in the dermatology field would like to have mexoryl in a sunscreen with a higher SPF. Currently, it will only be available in SPF 15.
The story mentions that mexoryl has been available and safely used in Europe and Canada for 15+ years, though there is no mention of potential harms of this sunscreen. FDA approval was based on studies in over 2500 patients. Side effects in these studies were not serious and infrequent; however, they should still be listed as part of this story. The most common side effects in clinical trials were: dry skin, dermatitis, redness, eczema and sunburn.
The story mentions that Mexoryl in L’oreal’s moisturizer Anthelios SX will be available for sale Oct. 1, 2006. However, the story does not provide the cost of Anthelios SX. On Canadian websites, it costs between $30 and $45 depending on SPF and size. So, it is not going to be cheap in the US.
Criteria
Not Satisfactory
The story does not provide the cost of Anthelios SX. The cost is between $30 and $45 depending on SPF and size on Canadian-based internet sites. So, it is not going to be cheap in the US.
Not Satisfactory
The story does not provide quantification of benefit. We are told why this sunscreen is better than existing sunscreens for preventing photodamage and skin cancer, but we are not told about studies that prove this to be the case.
Not Satisfactory
The story does not mention potential harms of using this new sunscreen. FDA approval was based on studies of over 2500 patients. Side effects in these studies were not serious and infrequent, however, they should be listed in this story. The most common side effects in clinical trials were: dry skin, dermatitis, redness, eczema, sunburn.
Not Satisfactory
The story does not provide evidence that this sunscreen works any better than existing sunscreens with higher SPF. FDA approval of mexoryl was based on 28 studies. Data from at least one of these studies comparing mexoryl against existing sunscreens should be available and noted in this story.
Satisfactory
The story does not engage in disease mongering. Sun protection in the form of more potent sunscreens and protective clothing is important to prevent many forms of skin cancer.
Satisfactory
The story cites two dermatologists who discuss the value of this new sunscreen. They caution readers to be vigilant about avoiding excessive sun exposure. The story also notes that those in the dermatology field would like to have mexoryl in a sunscreen with a higher SPF. Currently, it will only be available in SPF 15.
Satisfactory
The story discusses the importance of both UVB and UVA protection and mentions other forms of chemical and physical sunscreens. The story also mentions the importance of wearing protective clothing in addition to sunscreen, and avoiding the sun during peak hours.
Satisfactory
The story mentions that mexoryl in L’Oreal’s moisturizer Anthelios SX will be available for sale Oct. 1, 2006.
Satisfactory
The story mentions that mexoryl has been available and safely used in Europe and Canada for 15+ years.
Satisfactory
It does not appear that the story relied solely or largely on a press release for information. The story consults dermatologists not affiliated with the makers of Anthelios SX, as well as company representatives. The dermatologists who discuss the added benefit of the new sunscreen do not mention studies where mexoryl was proven better than existing sunscreens.
Total Score: 6 of 10 Satisfactory
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