–          UV filters is a broad category of chemicals that can absorb the UVA or UVB radiation and were developed to provide skin protection.

–          They are an effective control measure against the adverse health effects of exposure to the solar radiation.

–          Except their present in sunscreens, UV filters are also used in cosmetics (i.e. lipsticks, foundations) and personal care products (deodorants).

–          Recent studies have indicated that UV filters might be possible endocrine disruptors and their inclusion in consumer products is regulated.

–          Consumer products with UV filters: sunscreens, lipsticks, deodorants, make-up and foundation etc.

Sources/Links

Schlumpf M., Cotton B., Conscience M., Haller V., Steinmann B., Lichtensteiger W., In vitro and in vivo estrogenicity of UV screens, Environ. Health Perspect., 2001, 109, 239-243.

List of UV filters allowed in cosmetic products [Internet]. European Commission – Health and Consumers, Scientific Committees. 2014 [cited 2014 Jul 29]. Available from: http://ec.europa.eu/consumers/cosmetics/cosing/index.cfm?fuseaction=search.results&annex_v2=VI&search

Opinion on the Evaluation of Potentially Estrogenic Effects of UV-filters adopted by the SCCNFP during the 17th Plenary meeting of 12 June 2001 [Internet]. European Commission – Health and Consumers, Scientific Committees. Available from: http://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/consumer_safety/opinions/sccnfp_opinions_97_04/sccp_out145_en.htm

CFR – Code of Federal Regulations Title 21 [Internet]. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 2013. Available from: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/cfrsearch.cfm?cfrpart=352&showfr=1

Manová E., von Goetz N., Hauri U., Bogdal C., Hungerbühler K., Organic UV filters in personal care products in Switzerland: a survey of occurrence and concentrations, Int. J. Hyg. Environ. Health., 2013, 216, 508–514.