Statement by Beth Jonas, PhD, Chief Scientist Personal Care Products Council The Personal Care Products Industry Applauds Washington State Lawmakers for Advancing Public Health

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Washington, D.C., – “Today, we applaud Washington State Governor Jay Inslee for signing Substitute Senate Bill No. 5404 into law, allowing and encouraging students, parents, and school personnel to apply topical sunscreen products while on school property, if the product is regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for over-the-counter use.

“We thank Senator Ann Rivers and Representative Paul Harris for guiding the bill through the legislative process, and helping to remove barriers that have prevented children in Washington schools from using over-the-counter sunscreens.

“It is well known that skin exposed to UV radiation can be damaged, leading to premature skin aging and skin cancer. FDA, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. Surgeon General, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), the Skin Cancer Foundation and health care professionals worldwide emphasize that daily use of sunscreens is a critical part of a safe sun regimen.  

“It’s essential to build healthy habits early on in a child’s life, such as teaching them about the importance of sunscreen and additional effective methods to reduce sun impact, like wearing protective hats and UV-blocking sunglasses, minimizing time in direct sunlight or playing in the shade, and covering exposed skin with clothing.  Starting healthy habits early leads to lifelong benefits.

“Consumer and product safety are top priorities for the cosmetics and personal care products industry, with careful and thorough scientific research and development serving as the foundation for everything we do.”