Sunscreen 101

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Confusing claims on sunscreen labels are likely to leave you dizzy after a trip down the drugstore aisle. From sky-high SPF numbers (100, really?) to too-good-to-be-true promises ("Instant protection!"), it's tough to know which bottle to buy to keep your skin safe. Finally, new FDA guidelines aim to demystify sunscreen shopping and shed light on the products that can help protect your skin—and your life.

"Some of the current labels overstate the effectiveness of their product or don't accurately reflect the performance of the sunscreen," says Stephanie Yao, a spokesperson for the FDA. "Our new regulations include testing and label requirements that will prevent misleading claims and provide consumers with the information they need to make educated choices when selecting sunscreen for themselves and their families."