In a further effort to emphasize the importance of proper sun protection and to help reduce the incidence of skin cancer, the American Academy of Dermatology introduced the AAD SEAL OF RECOGNITION. The AAD SEAL OF RECOGNITION is designed to help consumers choose products that will provide the sun protection recommended by dermatologists, including broad-spectrum sunscreens with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 15 or higher.

For a product to receive the AAD SEAL OF RECOGNITION, it must meet the following criteria:

• Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 15 or higher
• Evidence of broad-spectrum protection (protects against UVA and UVB rays) as evidenced by the critical wavelength method and in vivo testing using the Persistent Pigment Darkening method
• Evidence of product stability
• Absence of photo toxicity
• Complies with United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Sunscreen Monograph

Before granting the use of the AAD SEAL OF RECOGNITION to a product, the Academy’s Melanoma/Skin Cancer Committee of dermatologists reviews each application and the corresponding documentation to ensure the product meets the program criteria.

Products applying for the AAD SEAL OF RECOGNITION must submit extensive formulation and scientific testing data. Once approved, the product will display the following statement: “The American Academy of Dermatology recognizes this product for its sun-protection benefit.”