The Skin Cancer Foundation awarded its Seal of Recommendation based on its analyses of scientific tests. The analyses concluded that Obagi Nu-Derm Healthy Skin Protection SPF 35 effectively prevents sun-induced skin damage by screening out UVA and UVB exposure. To qualify for the Seal, the sunscreen had to meet criteria and high standards set by the Foundation's Photobiology Committee.
By combining effective physical sun filters consisting of 9 per cent zinc oxide and 7.5 per cent octyl methoxycinnamate, Nu-Derm SPF 35 is said to deliver broad-spectrum protection against irreversible damage from the sun's harmful UVA and UVB rays.
Aimed at sensitive and fair skins, the sunscreen is said to be most suitable for adults and children over 6 months of age. The Foundation stated that when used regularly, Obagi's Healthy Skin Protection SPF 35 also helps reduce the risk for skin cancer due to overexposure to sunlight.
Based in Long Beach, California, Obagi Medical Products develops, manufactures, markets and sells the leading brand of physician monitored and dispensed skin care products in the United States. Obagi's is also present in Japan, Scandinavia, Europe, Canada, South America, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
Growing awareness of the risk associated with sun exposure has led to a significant growth in the market for sunscreens in recent years. In particular there has been a proliferation of high protection products - those claiming to have protection ratings above SPF 30.
In the US alone the sun care market has grown at over 5 per cent per annum in the period 1998 - 2003 to top $600 million, according to figures from Datamonitor. In order of market dominance, leading players include Estee Lauder, Proctor & Gamble and L'Oreal.