PCPC Launches Webpage with Key Information on Industry Economic Achievements


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

CONTACTS: 

Tesia Williams: (202) 297-1232 [email protected] 
Team: [email protected] 

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) launches Beauty That Drives Economic Growth webpage about the economic impact and essentiality of the cosmetics and personal care products industry on the federal, state and local economies. The page features shareable state-specific and national fact sheets and resources with key economic data, such as sales, employment and manufacturing statistics. 

The page is updated with pertinent information on a regular basis. 

###

img

Personal Care Products Council Unveils 2025 Beauty Collective Summit Dates and Inspiring Keynote Lineup


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS:     

Tesia Williams, (202) 297-1232, [email protected]

Personal Care Products Council Unveils 2025 Beauty Collective Summit Dates and Inspiring Keynote Lineup 

PCPC’s flagship event returns to Florida and highlights where the beauty and personal care products industry is going and growing

WASHINGTON – Today, the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) announces the beauty industry’s most revered event, the 2025 Beauty Collective Summit. Scheduled for Feb. 18–20, 2025, at The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne in Miami, Fla., this high-impact industry gathering unites top executives, thought leaders, and innovators in cosmetics and personal care. Attendees can expect three days of interactive sessions and insights into the industry’s most urgent priorities and projections of future progress.  

“As we reimagined this annual gathering, the name ‘Beauty Collective’ emerged as a fitting description of where the future of beauty is heading,” said PCPC President and CEO Tom Myers. “This summit is a force multiplier for our industry, and ‘annual meeting’ did not fully encompass the vibrant assembly of diverse people and perspectives who shape, innovate and grow the beauty business. Executives, brand leaders, entrepreneurs, scientists and so many others have a role to play in what comes next in our industry.” 

With a mix of live presentations, discussions and networking, the summit explores the forces reshaping the industry and provides actionable tools to help attendees lead the future of beauty. Sessions are broken into three tracks: Business Innovation, Science of Beauty, and Regulation & Compliance. Attendees can gain access to the latest research, peer connections, and expert advice to navigate current challenges and drive transformative impact. 

Keynote Insights from Distinguished Industry Leaders 

  • Doris Kearns Goodwin, Presidential Historian 
    Known as one of the most influential historians of our time, Doris Kearns Goodwin is sharing lessons on resilience, transformation and the enduring qualities of great leaders—providing a compelling look at how these attributes can be applied to today’s beauty industry challenges. 
  • Sol Rashidi, Former Chief Data/Analytics/AI Officer, Esteemed Fortune 100 Executive 
    With over 25 years of experience in AI, data and technology, Sol Rashidi has helped shape digital innovation within Fortune 100 companies, such as The Estée Lauder Companies. She is providing insights on how to leverage AI and analytics to move businesses forward and is offering a glimpse into the next generation of technology-driven growth. 

Celebrating Excellence in DEI: The Madam C.J. Walker Award 

The summit concludes with a reception to celebrate the Madam C.J. Walker Award for Excellence in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). PCPC launched the award in 2021 to recognize individuals who demonstrate an outstanding commitment to DEI through strong leadership and sustained efforts, with a focus on workplace culture, programs and policies, or through external engagement with consumers and communities. Honorees reflect the highest standards of dedication to diversity and inclusivity in the beauty and personal care industry. 

To learn more about this year’s event, register and explore sponsorship opportunities, visit summit.personalcarecouncil.org.  

 ###

ABOUT THE PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS COUNCIL 

Founded in 1894, the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) is the leading national trade association representing the cosmetics and personal care products industry. PCPC is dedicated to promoting product safety, quality and innovation, serving as a unifying voice that champions science-based standards and responsible practices to support health, well-being and economic growth. PCPC’s global members are some of the beloved and trusted brands in beauty and personal care today, providing millions of consumers with the diverse products they rely on every day – from sunscreens, toothpaste and shampoo to moisturizer, makeup and fragrance.

ABOUT THE 2025 BEAUTY COLLECTIVE SUMMIT 

The Beauty Collective Summit (formerly Annual Meeting) is the premier gathering for the beauty and personal care industry. Celebrating its 131st anniversary in 2025, PCPC is a pivotal platform for sharing insights, celebrating diversity, and fostering connections across all facets of the beauty community. With a focus on themes such as sustainability, innovation, and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), the summit highlights the evolving landscape of beauty and the power of collaboration. As the industry’s leading multi-day event, it attracts hundreds of attendees from around the globe, creating an unparalleled opportunity for engagement and growth within the beauty sector.

Personal Care Products Council Appoints Tesia Williams as Head of Public Affairs & Communications


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS:     

Tesia Williams (202) 297-1232 [email protected] 

Personal Care Products Council Appoints Tesia Williams as Head of Public Affairs & Communications

WASHINGTON – The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) announced today Tesia Williams’ appointment as executive vice president, public affairs and communications. Williams most recently led global corporate media relations for Johnson & Johnson and brings a wealth of experience in crisis communications and reputation management. 

 “We are excited to welcome Tesia to lead our public affairs and communications team,” said PCPC President and CEO Tom Myers. “She is a strategy-first communications executive with more than 20 years of experience in protecting and elevating brands, building coalitions and leading large, multi-functional teams in a highly regulated industry. Her extensive expertise will be instrumental in navigating our industry’s complex issues and enhancing our support to member companies.”

Williams previously served as senior vice president of crisis and reputation management at Edelman. She began her career in communications and public affairs in the federal government where she held significant roles at the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. She led communications efforts on critical events, including the federal COVID-19 pandemic response, product safety issues, workforce diversity and inclusion challenges, critical supply shortages and the 9/11 Pentagon attack.

Williams graduated from Hampton University in Hampton, Va.

###

Founded in 1894, the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) is the voice and advocate for 600 member companies representing the global cosmetics and personal care products industry. PCPC’s members represent approximately 90% of the U.S. beauty industry and are some of the most beloved and trusted brands in beauty and personal care today. As manufacturers, distributors and suppliers of a diverse range of products millions of consumers rely on every day — from sunscreens, toothpaste and shampoo to moisturizer, makeup and fragrance — PCPC’s member companies are global leaders committed to safety, quality and innovation. 

Cosmetics and Personal Care Products Industry Drives the U.S. Economy and Promotes Social Well-being, According to New Report


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS:     

Tesia Williams (202) 297-1232 [email protected]
Stefanie Harrington (202) 615-6558 [email protected]

Cosmetics and Personal Care Products Industry Drives the U.S. Economy and Promotes Social Well-being, According to New Report

WASHINGTON—The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) unveiled its latest report, “The Beauty of Impact,” which shows the profound economic and social contributions of the U.S. cosmetics and personal care products industry. The report highlights the industry’s role in job creation, economic growth, scientific advancement, sustainability and community support throughout 2022, the most recent data available.

“On every measure, our industry is thriving and contributing to the U.S. economy while serving as an agent for positive change for people and the planet,” said PCPC President and CEO Tom Myers. “Our member companies are committed to creating employment opportunities, driving innovation through scientific research, and supporting consumers’ health and well-being.”

Economic Contributions:

  • 4.6 million jobs: The industry supports direct and indirect employment across various sectors, highlighting its role as a significant job creator.
  • $203.3 billion in labor income: This substantial figure reflects the industry’s commitment to providing well-paying jobs.
  • $308.7 billion added to the gross domestic product (GDP): Cleary indicates the industry’s significant impact on the national economy.
  • $82.3 billion in federal, state and local taxes: These contributions support public services and infrastructure.

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the industry demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth:

  • 15% increase in GDP contributions since 2020.
  • 17% rise in total employment, underscoring the industry’s expanding workforce.
  • 19% boost in labor income, reflecting increased wages and salaries.
  • 27% increase in tax payments, contributing more to government revenues.

Industry Highlights:

  • Small Business Support: 71% of employees work for businesses with fewer than 50 employees, showcasing the industry’s role in fostering entrepreneurship.
  • Diversity and Inclusion: Employment rates for women (nearly 80%) and people of color (33%) significantly exceed national averages, demonstrating the industry’s commitment to equity.
  • STEM Investment: Over 5,700 professionals are employed in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), driving innovation and ensuring product safety.
  • Sustainability Efforts: Industry leaders reduced Scope 1 greenhouse gas emissions by 8.7%, highlighting their commitment to environmental responsibility.
  • Charitable Contributions: The industry donated $170 million to various causes, translating to $1,500 for every $1 million in revenue, significantly above the national average.

PCPC has worked with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) since 2016 to measure the economic and social impact of the personal care products industry using the most recent government data. An executive summary and the full report, including detailed data for every state and the nation’s largest Metropolitan areas (New York and Los Angeles), are available on PCPC’s website.

# # #

Founded in 1894, the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) is the voice and advocate for 600 member companies representing the global cosmetics and personal care products industry. PCPC’s members represent approximately 90% of the U.S. beauty industry and are some of the most beloved and trusted brands in beauty and personal care today. As the manufacturers, distributors and suppliers of a diverse range of products millions of consumers rely on every day – from sunscreens, toothpaste and shampoo to moisturizer, makeup and fragrance – PCPC’s member companies are global leaders committed to product safety, quality and innovation.

Personal Care Products Council Announces L’Oréal’s David Greenberg as New Board Chair


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS:     

Tesia Williams (202) 297-1232 [email protected]
Stefanie Harrington (202) 615-6558 [email protected]

Personal Care Products Council Announces L’Oréal’s David Greenberg as New Board Chair

WASHINGTON—The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) announced today the election of David Greenberg as its new board chair, effective May 1, 2024. Greenberg, who has served as the CEO of L’Oréal USA and president of the North America Zone since his appointment in February 2022, brings a wealth of experience from his 30-year career in the beauty and personal care industry, marked by numerous achievements and transformative strategies.

“David is a visionary industry leader whose profound understanding of the beauty landscape and his commitment to innovation has driven substantial growth in every role he has held,” said PCPC President & CEO Tom Myers. “His transformative strategies, coupled with a strong focus on consumer-centricity and people development, have been instrumental in his leadership at L’Oréal USA. We are thrilled that in his new Board role he will help us continue to navigate the evolving market dynamics and advocate for the beauty and personal care sector.”

Greenberg has spent more than 30 years at L’Oréal in leadership roles across markets, divisions, brands and functions, including leading the L’Oréal Mexico Consumer Products Division, driving internal transformation as the senior vice president for human resources for L’Oréal USA, and, prior to becoming CEO of the largest subsidiary of the L’Oréal Groupe, leading and driving a major acceleration and business model transformation of the Professional Products Division in U.S. and Canada.  

“I am honored to serve as the board chair for the Personal Care Products Council, an organization that plays a vital role in the advocacy and progression of the beauty and personal care industry,” said Greenberg. “I look forward to working alongside other industry leaders to further foster a landscape of innovation, safety and trust that meets the diverse needs of our consumers worldwide.”

Greenberg’s appointment marks a significant milestone in PCPC’s history, following his long-time vice chairmanship role on the Board of Directors that championed the historical passage of the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022, and will now shift to promoting the essential role beauty plays in society as a whole. Under his leadership, PCPC will increase its advocacy efforts to promote science-based public policies and promote the industry’s commitment to innovative and sustainable cosmetics and personal care products, further enhancing consumer trust in the safety and quality of the products they use and rely on every day.

# # #

Founded in 1894, the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) is the voice and advocate for 600 member companies representing the global cosmetics and personal care products industry. PCPC’s members represent approximately 90% of the US beauty industry and are some of the most beloved and trusted brands in beauty and personal care today. As the manufacturers, distributors and suppliers of a diverse range of products millions of consumers rely on every day – from sunscreens, toothpaste and shampoo to moisturizer, makeup and fragrance – PCPC’s member companies are global leaders committed to product safety, quality and innovation.

The Personal Care Products Council Announces Madam C.J. Walker Award for Excellence in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Recipients


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS:     

Tesia Williams (202) 297-1232 [email protected]

The Personal Care Products Council Announces Madam C.J. Walker Award for Excellence in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Recipients
Beauty Industry Recognizes Michelle Wang Goodridge, Kenvue, and Monique Rodriguez, Mielle Organics, as DEI Champions

CORAL GABLES, FLA. – The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) is proud to announce its 2024 Madam C.J. Walker Award for Excellence in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) recipients. The Award recognizes individuals in the beauty and personal care products industry who demonstrate an outstanding commitment to DEI through strong leadership and sustained efforts with a focus on workplace culture, program and policies, or through external engagement with consumers and communities. 

Presented last night at the PCPC Annual Meeting 2024 opening reception, the selection committee awarded this distinction to entrepreneur recipient Monique Rodriguez – founder & CEO of Mielle Organics, the fastest growing Black-founded and woman-led, multicultural hair care brand – and to corporate recipient Michelle Wang Goodridge – U.S. president of Brand Growth, Kenvue – in recognition of their dedication to advance DEI.

As a Black-founded business, Mielle Organics aims to empower Black communities economically by inspiring and contributing to future entrepreneurs. More recently, in partnership with P&G, Rodriguez launched Mielle Cares, a non-profit organization that champions the mental health and wellbeing of pre-teens and teenagers by nurturing a positive and resilient mindset to help create a future they can believe in.

“I’m so honored to receive this award. Like Madam C.J. Walker, I also started our company from my kitchen, and as Mielle approaches its 10-year milestone, I am proud to reflect on our accomplishments and know that the historic things we’ve done with Mielle Organics will continue to open the door for other Black women to do the same,” said Rodriguez. “I know I have a bigger purpose, bigger than Mielle, to serve our community and our youth. I stand on the shoulders of Madam C.J. Walker and aim to continue breaking glass ceilings and setting the trajectory for Black female entrepreneurs and business leaders.”

Wang Goodridge is a trailblazer, working diligently to create inclusive work environments for Kenvue employees, and ensuring that through her work, brands are collectively advocating and investing in equitable access to everyday care for all consumers. She is widely recognized as an agent of change and serving as a beacon in the industry.

“Accepting this award is not a reflection of my efforts alone but a celebration of our collective commitment to diversity and inclusion as an industry,” said Wang Goodridge. “We must continue to take bolder steps to address inequities in care, expand access, and foster inclusive environments and solutions that will ultimately lead to better outcomes for individuals and their families. Together, we can build lasting positive change for people and communities around the world.”

The Award honors industry pioneer Madam C.J. Walker who started her hair care business at the turn of the century, during a time when women of color had few rights and little opportunity. The Award is given to individuals in the cosmetics or personal care industry. Nominees are judged on areas of achievement based on predetermined criteria and selected by the Madam Walker Selection Committee.

“Madam C.J. Walker, Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein were among the women who started this industry when nobody else was paying attention,” said A’Lelia Bundles, event mistress of ceremonies and Madam Walker’s great-great-granddaughter. “And it turns out that this is not just about products, but it is about empowering people. Making women feel confident, but also giving people economic opportunity. And that’s very much what Madam Walker was about.”

“Madam C.J. Walker was a true trailblazer and one of the greatest entrepreneurs in history. She created jobs that helped thousands of women of color achieve financial independence. She is one of the reasons we have people like Monique and Michelle leading the industry today,” said PCPC President & CEO Tom Myers.

###

Founded in 1894, the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) is the voice and advocate for 600 member companies representing the $535.7 billion global cosmetics and personal care products industry. PCPC’s members represent approximately 90% of the U.S. beauty industry and are some of the most beloved and trusted brands in beauty and personal care today. As the manufacturers, distributors and suppliers of a diverse range of products millions of consumers rely on every day – from sunscreens, toothpaste and shampoo to moisturizer, makeup and fragrance – PCPC’s member companies are global leaders committed to product safety, quality and innovation.

For more information on cosmetics and personal care products and their ingredients, please visit www.CosmeticsInfo.org

Beauty and Personal Care Industry Gathers During Annual Meeting to Envision a More Beautiful, Inclusive and Sustainable Future


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS:     

Tesia Williams (202) 297-1232 [email protected]
Stefanie Harrington (202) 615-6558 [email protected]

Beauty and Personal Care Industry Gathers During Annual Meeting to Envision a More Beautiful, Inclusive and Sustainable Future

CORAL GABLES, FLA. – The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) brings together industry executives and thought leaders this week for its first in-person Annual Meeting since March 2020, right before the COVID-19 pandemic changed the world. Attendees will reflect on the beauty industry’s past, present and future with a focus on creating a more beautiful, inclusive and sustainable world.

In recognition of the release of PCPC’s Economic & Social Contributions Report 2024, the Meeting program highlights important issues of the day, including environmental impacts and social issues challenging communities across the nation. This year, PCPC is honored to be joined by prominent experts who will provide insights, lead panel discussions and challenge current thinking:

  • Max Bennett, Alby, providing insights on how conversational artificial intelligence (AI) impacts beauty brands and retailers
  • Evan Osnos, The New Yorker, offering a balanced and thorough view of world news and its consequences
  • Elisabeth Anderson, Michigan State University, and Michael Fevola, Ph.D., discussing the complexities of the new value chain
  • Melissa Kopolow, Albright Stonebridge Group, sharing insights on the United Nations Global Treaty on Plastic Pollution
  • Elisabeth Anderson, Michigan State University, demystifying science through storytelling and data-driven best practices
  • Antonio Dias, Jones Day, discussing the intricacies of customer relationships
  • Justin Pierce, Venable, and William Mansfield, Emergent IP Consulting, providing insights on the multifaceted challenges posed by counterfeit goods, knockoffs and infringing products
  • Michael Maslanksy, Maslansky + Partners, highlighting key research insights into the issue of ESG polarization
  • Carol Cone, Carol Cone ON PURPOSE, and Harold Hamana, Knight & Pawn, sharing insights on the power of language in sustainability communications
  • Wade Ackerman, Covington & Burling, discussing the changing regulatory and legislative landscape
  • A panel of cancer patients, professional volunteers, psychosocial oncology specialists and member company representatives highlighting PCPC’s Look Good Feel Better program
  • Jessica O’Connell, Covington & Burling, providing a deep dive into recent developments in advertising and claim substantiation
  • Carlos Berzunza, CASIC; John Chave, Cosmetics Europe; and Darren Praznik, Cosmetics Alliance Canada, discussing critical regulatory issues affecting the global cosmetics industry

The Meeting’s first day concludes with a reception to celebrate the Madam C.J. Walker Award for Excellence in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). The Award recognizes individuals who demonstrate an outstanding commitment to DEI through strong leadership and sustained efforts with a focus on workplace culture, programs and policies, or through external engagement with consumers and communities. 

“I am honored to lead this year’s Annual Meeting as PCPC’s new president and CEO,” said Tom Myers, PCPC president & CEO. “Our industry enhances people’s wellbeing and contributes positively to our communities and our world. To that end, collaboration, partnerships and best practice sharing will continue to be essential to our industry’s progress in the years to come.”

Barbara Menarguez, PCPC Board of Directors chair and general manager, Fragrance and Beauty, CHANEL, noted: “PCPC’s member companies are in relentless pursuit of excellence through the quality and safety of our products and the integrity of our business practices. We drive change through innovations that positively impact people’s lives and the environment we all share.”

Up for election at the PCPC Board of Directors meeting held at the Annual Meeting are the following:

Freddy Bharucha, president, North America Personal Care and Beauty Operations, Procter & Gamble

Deborah Gibbins, chief operating officer, Mary Kay

David Greenberg, group president, Professional Products Division, N.A., L’Oréal

Mark Loomis, president, North America, The Estée Lauder Companies

Barbara Menarguez, general manager, Fragrance & Beauty, CHANEL

Michelle Wang Goodridge, U.S. president of Brand Growth, Kenvue

To learn more about PCPC’s Annual Meeting 2024, visit the website. Follow Meeting updates in real time on X, formerly Twitter, at @PCPC_News. For more information about cosmetics and personal care products, please visit www.CosmeticsInfo.org.

###

Founded in 1894, the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) is the voice and advocate for 600 member companies representing the $535.7 global cosmetics and personal care products industry. PCPC’s members represent approximately 90% of the U.S. beauty industry and are some of the most beloved and trusted brands in beauty and personal care today. As manufacturers, distributors and suppliers of a diverse range of products millions of consumers rely on every day — from sunscreens, toothpaste and shampoo to moisturizer, makeup and fragrance — PCPC’s member companies are global leaders committed to safety, quality and innovation. 

Personal Care Products Council Appoints Emily Manoso as General Counsel


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS:     

Tesia Williams (202) 297-1232 [email protected]
Stefanie Harrington (202) 615-6558 [email protected]

Personal Care Products Council Appoints Emily Manoso as General Counsel

WASHINGTON – The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) announced today Emily Manoso’s appointment as Executive Vice President, Legal & Regulatory Affairs and General Counsel. Manoso has a robust background in cosmetics and personal care products regulatory and legal issues, having previously worked as PCPC’s associate general counsel and staff counsel. More recently, Manoso worked as a trial attorney for the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ).

“We are excited to welcome Emily back to lead our legal team and guide our industry’s legal and regulatory strategies,” said Tom Myers, PCPC’s President & CEO. “Her diverse and extensive expertise will be instrumental in navigating our industry’s complex legal and regulatory landscape, enhancing our support to member companies.”

At DOJ, Manoso advocated for the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services in cases brought under the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act. She started her legal career in private practice and as an assistant district attorney.  

Manoso earned her bachelor’s degree with distinction from the University of Virginia and her J.D. from the George Mason University Antonin Scalia Law School. She is a member of the North Carolina State Bar and the District of Columbia Bar. 

 ###

 Founded in 1894, the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) is the voice and advocate for 600 member companies representing the $529.3 global cosmetics and personal care products industry. PCPC’s members represent approximately 90% of the U.S. beauty industry and are some of the most beloved and trusted brands in beauty and personal care today. As manufacturers, distributors and suppliers of a diverse range of products millions of consumers rely on every day — from sunscreens, toothpaste and shampoo to moisturizer, makeup and fragrance — PCPC’s member companies are global leaders committed to safety, quality and innovation. 

Personal Care Products Council Appoints Thomas F. Myers President and CEO


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS:     

Tesia Williams (202) 297-1232 [email protected]
Stefanie Harrington (202) 615-6558 [email protected]

Personal Care Products Council Appoints Thomas F. Myers President and CEO

WASHINGTON – The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) announced today the appointment of Thomas F. Myers as the new president and CEO, effective January 2024. Myers currently serves as PCPC’s Executive Vice President for Legal & Regulatory Affairs and General Counsel.

“Tom’s profound understanding of our industry and exceptional understanding of the legal, regulatory and political landscape uniquely position him to lead PCPC. His vision aligns perfectly with our industry’s innovative spirit, dedication to quality and commitment to safety,” said PCPC Board Chair Barbara Menarguez, general manager of fragrance and beauty at CHANEL.

Myers has been with PCPC since 2010. In his current role, he oversees legal and domestic regulatory issues facing the industry and is intricately involved in the operations of the organization. Before joining PCPC, Myers had a notable legal career working with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and in private practice for international law firms.

Lezlee Westine, who steps down as president and CEO at the end of the year, leaves behind a legacy of growth and success. Since 2009, Westine’s leadership has solidified PCPC’s role as a highly effective advocate for the industry and its commitment to innovation, quality and safety.  Most recently, she led the PCPC team in support of the historic Modernization of Cosmetics Reform Act of 2022, which modernizes federal regulatory oversight of cosmetics and personal care products and creates a comprehensive and uniform national framework for cosmetics regulation.

“This is an exciting time for our industry thanks to the strong foundation laid by Lezlee,” said Myers.  “I am honored to be selected as PCPC’s next leader and I am confident that, together with the Board and staff, we will continue to drive growth and innovation for the industry and the consumers who rely on our products every day.”

###

Founded in 1894, the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) is the voice and advocate for 600 member companies representing the $529.3 billion global cosmetics and personal care products industry. PCPC’s members represent approximately 90% of the U.S. beauty industry and are some of the most beloved and trusted brands in beauty and personal care today. As manufacturers, distributors and suppliers of a diverse range of products millions of consumers rely on every day – from sunscreens, toothpaste and shampoo to moisturizer, makeup and fragrance – PCPC’s member companies are global leaders committed to safety, quality and innovation. 

Sun Safety Awareness Takes Center Stage on National Don’t Fry Day


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS:     

Tesia Williams (202) 297-1232 [email protected]
Stefanie Harrington (202) 615-6558 [email protected]

Sun Safety Awareness Takes Center Stage on National Don’t Fry Day
Sun Protection Particularly Critical in U.S. Cities with the Highest UV Index

WASHINGTON — A dozen U.S. cities are expected to have extreme ultraviolet (UV) index ratings (10+) this Memorial Day and throughout the summer, according to 2022 data from the National Weather Service, making sun protection especially important for all residents and visitors. National Don’t Fry Day, the Friday before Memorial Day weekend, encourages sun-safety awareness and serves as a reminder to protect skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s UV rays.

The UV index measures the amount of skin-damaging UV rays reaching the Earth’s surface when the sun is highest in the sky, serving as a helpful tool in preventing overexposure to the sun’s rays. The UV index changes seasonally and can range from 0 (nighttime) to 15-16. The higher the number, the greater the exposure to skin and eye-damaging UV radiation.

  • 0-2: No to minimal sun protection needed
  • 3-7: Moderate to high protection needed – seeking shade during late morning through mid-afternoon; generously applying broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen on exposed skin; wearing protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
  • 8+: Very high to extreme protection needed – seeking shade; generously applying broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen on exposed skin; wearing protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses

The dangers of UV rays, including premature skin aging and skin cancer, are clear and universally recognized. According to the American Cancer Society, more than five million Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer each year – more than all other types of cancer combined. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime, and 20 Americans die from melanoma – the deadliest form of skin cancer – every day, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

“Skin cancer is a significant and largely preventable public health concern,” said Patti Farris, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist with over 35 years of experience in research, aesthetics and clinical practice. “When going outdoors, especially when the UV index is high, individuals need sun protection to minimize their risk for skin cancer. That can be a hat and protective clothing, and broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30 for skin exposed to the sun is a must.”

While skin cancer is one of the most common cancers, it is also preventable. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), four out of five cases can be prevented by following safe-sun practices, including limiting time in the sun, seeking shade, wearing protective clothing and using sunscreens regularly.

“Sunscreens are important tools for preventing and reducing the risk of skin cancer and UV-induced skin damage and should be part of your daily health and safety routine, just like brushing your teeth or using a seat belt,” said Alexandra Kowcz, chief scientist, Personal Care Products Council. “Our industry provides consumers with safe and innovative sunscreen products to help protect them and their families from the harmful effects of the sun.”

The U.S. cities with the highest average UV index in 2022 were:

  1. Honolulu, Hawaii (11.8)
  2. Miami, Fla. (11.5)
  3. San Juan, Puerto Rico (11.5)
  4. Albuquerque, N.M. (11)
  5. New Orleans, La. (10.8)
  6. Phoenix, Ariz. (10.7)
  7. Tampa, Fla. (10.5)
  8. Mobile, Ala. (10.3)
  9. Jackson, Miss. (10.2)
  10. Cheyenne, Wyo. (10)
  11. Denver, Colo. (10)
  12. Los Angeles, Calif. (10)

For more information about the UV index and the importance of practicing sun safety, including using broad-spectrum sunscreen, visit PCPC’s website.

###

Founded in 1894, the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) is the voice and advocate for 600 member companies representing the $529.3 billion global cosmetics and personal care products industry. PCPC’s members represent approximately 90% of the U.S. beauty industry and are some of the most beloved and trusted brands in beauty and personal care today. As the manufacturers, distributors and suppliers of a diverse range of products millions of consumers rely on every day – from sunscreens, toothpaste and shampoo to moisturizer, makeup and fragrance – PCPC’s member companies are global leaders committed to product safety, quality and innovation.