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The Indicator from Planet Money · July 20, 2026 · 9m

Why doesn't the US have better sunscreen?

The FDA has only just approved its first new sunscreen ingredient in nearly three decades, while the rest of the world has had access to more advanced formulas for years. This episode examines why the US regulatory process for sunscreens is so slow, a proposal to speed up innovation, and how a skincare influencer helped push for change.

This summary was generated from show notes and public descriptions, not from a full transcript review. Details may contain inaccuracies.

Highlights

First New Sunscreen Ingredient in Decades
The FDA finally approved a new sunscreen ingredient after nearly 30 years of stagnation.
Proposal to Speed Up Sunscreen Innovation
A proposal discussed in the episode aims to accelerate FDA approval for sunscreens and other drugs.

Editorial

Skincare Influencer Lobbying for Change
A skincare influencer campaigned for faster sunscreen approvals.
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