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The FDA has finally given its sunscreen rules a major update. Until now, the term "broad spectrum" has been unregulated. Going forward, a sunscreen calling itself "broad spectrum" must undergo testing to ensure that it provides protection against skin-aging (and cancer-causing) UVA rays as well as skin-burning (and cancer-causing) UVB rays (those included in the SPF rating).

And soon, you won't find sunscreens labeled "sunblock," "waterproof," or "sweatproof"—terms the FDA says overstate effectiveness—and a "water-resistant" claim will have to specify how long the sunscreen can stand up to swimming or sweating (either 40 or 80 minutes, based on testing).

Until these rules take effect next summer, look for sunscreens that contain some combination of avobenzone, oxybenzone, and zinc oxide, wear at least an SPF 30, and reapply every two hours.
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