The SAFE Sunscreen Standards Act is now law.
The Act, which modernizes the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) process for approving new sunscreen ingredients, streamlines testing standards to align with international approaches, and allows for the use of alternative testing methods, was signed into law on Nov. 13, 2025 as part of the reauthorization of the Over-the-Counter Monograph User Fee Act (OMUFA).
The U.S. FDA has not approved a new active sunscreen ingredient since 1999, and The SAFE Sunscreen Standards Act will facilitate the introduction of new sun protection options for Americans.
“While there are many safe and effective sunscreens in the US, Americans deserve continued innovation in sun protection,” says Deborah S. Sarnoff, MD, President of The Skin Cancer Foundation, in a news release. “More options make it easier for the public to find sunscreens that they like and will use daily. The SAFE Sunscreen Standards Act is a step in the right direction in our battle against the world’s most common cancer.”
The Skin Cancer Foundation urges the U.S. FDA to expedite implementation of the legislation to speed up sunscreen active ingredient reviews.
