1978. That’s when the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first began developing regulations for sunscreen products—and still has not implemented anything in 32 years.

Manufacturers have been able for decades to promote their sun-block lotions without proving they’re “waterproof,” “broad-based” or “lasts all day.” More importantly, because no federal standards exist, consumers have no way of knowing if the SPF level of a product means anything and if they are really getting the protection that numbers such as “50” imply.

Public health and consumer groups have objected to some SPF claims of sunscreen manufacturers. The Environmental Working Group examined 500 products on the market and came away recommending only 39.

The FDA came close to issuing regulations in 1999, but officials backed off after the Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Association objected to certain rules. FDA officials said they pulled the regulations because the proposal only addressed products offering protection against UVB radiation—which causes sunburns—and not UVA radiation, which leads to premature aging of the skin. But both types of ultraviolet radiation can lead to skin cancer.

-Noel Brinkerhoff