Safety and regulatory issues on sunscreen products in India

Sunscreens are products that are placed in contact with human skin with the intention of absorbing, scattering, or reflecting solar UV radiation. Their frequency of use has increased remarkably in India due to greater awareness of the damaging effects of skin exposure to sunlight. Sunscreen chemicals (UV filters) are used not only to protect the skin of the user but also to prevent the product from photo-degradation. Sunscreen chemicals and products are regulated as cosmetic or drug depending upon the regulation of the country in which it is manufactured. Adverse effects due to sunscreen chemicals are of concern all over the world. Variation in the regulation affects the safety assessment of UV filters and its products. Amendments are required in the existing regulation in this country.