Physicians Committee Applauds New AMA Policy Supporting Modernization of FDA Sunscreen Ingredient Review

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine applauds the American Medical Association (AMA) for adopting a policy supporting timely implementation of federal reforms to modernize the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s review of new sunscreen active ingredients.

The policy calls for a more modern, science-driven approach to sunscreen safety evaluation—one that recognizes the value of scientifically validated nonanimal testing methods. 

“Americans deserve access to sunscreen innovation backed by the best available science,” said Janine McCarthy, MPH, director of research policy at the Physicians Committee. “The AMA’s policy adds momentum to replacing outdated animal tests with modern methods and drawing on human safety data from around the world to help expand sunscreen options in the United States.”

For years, outdated testing requirements have limited the availability of innovative sunscreen ingredients in the United States, as other countries press on, evaluating and making available new ingredients for consumers. 

The policy builds on provisions of the SAFE Sunscreen Standards Act enacted in November 2025, which the Physicians Committee advocated for to modernize sunscreen safety evaluation. The legislation requires the FDA to consider appropriate nonanimal testing methods for over-the-counter topical drugs, including sunscreens. In March 2026, the FDA issued broader draft guidance on nonanimal methods in drug development, including over-the-counter topical drugs, to fulfill the law’s guidance requirement.

Modern testing methods, including nonanimal approaches, can provide relevant information for assessing the safety of ingredients and should be considered. The Physicians Committee welcomes the AMA’s advocacy in supporting a regulatory framework that advances public health, encourages innovation, and embraces scientifically sound alternatives to animal testing. 

The Physicians Committee urges the FDA to build on these steps by ensuring that nonanimal methods and human safety data are incorporated into sunscreen ingredient reviews, ensuring that all Americans benefit from modern sunscreen options.