Long-awaited sunscreen gets cleared in U.S.

WASHINGTON - The Food & Drug Administration has approved a L’Oreal over-the-counter sunscreen called Anthelios SX that contains an ingredient that blocks the type of harmful ultraviolet radiation linked to some cancers. It has been used overseas for years but never before in the United States.

The sunscreen, produced in France, contains an ingredient (ecamsule) that blocks out ultraviolet A rays, which penetrates deeper than ultraviolet B rays associated with more common sunburns. Dermatologists have praised Mexoryl’s effectiveness at blocking ultraviolet A rays, and some Americans have sought it out through the Internet and other overseas sources.

Anthelios SX also contains two other ingredients already used in various sunscreen products.

The FDA said it recommended that consumers use sunscreens to protect themselves but also limit time in the sun and wear protective clothing.

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