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Use of a sunscreen resulted in an unanticipated trip to the doctor after I had a reaction to a "new and improved" formulation of a sunscreen product. It required topical and oral steroids to quell sun induced chemical burns over more than half my body. The dermatologist, who said that it was not uncommon given the ingredients used in most sunscreens, suggested that intelligent consumers spot test a little before using a lot of anything on their bodies despite label claims of being "safe, mild, or gentle." And in my case, it also didn't matter that the product I used was marketed for babies. Based on my experience, I've chosen not to leave my health and the safety in the hands of a faceless entity known as the FDA. Ultimately, the face that looks back at me from the mirror is the one who is responsible for what happens to me regardless of whether the FDA updates its recommendations or not. What's safe for 99 out of 100 means nothing if the one, who is affected, turns out to be me. No matter how stringent their standards may be, the FDA cannot guarantee a product will be safe for everyone. Consequently, each one of us must bear the responsibility for what happens in our lives rather than depend solely on government regulations.

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