The Sun Protection Program (SPP) recognizes sunscreen products that meet a standard that provides effective sun protection. The approved products are licensed to display our logo and statement for which a licensing fee is paid. The funds generated support our Sun Awareness Program which educates Canadians about sun safety.
In 1989, with the encouragement of then Health and Welfare Canada, the Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA) launched the Sun Protection Program (SPP) to recognize broad spectrum sunscreens with an SPF of 15 and higher. The minimum SPF was raised to 30 in September 2008.
Industry partnership remains very much a crucial part of this public education program today. Funds generated through program licensing agreements, which allow recognized manufacturers to display the CDA logo and recognition statements on approved sunscreen products and related advertising, help support skin health and sun safety education programs and activities across Canada.
Through your support, the CDA has developed a range of print and digital educational resources that help Canadians of all ages and skin types make informed, sun-safe choices. These materials are distributed through physician offices, public health units, community centres, daycares, schools, and other community settings nationwide.
Today, the Sun Protection Program (SPP) continues to provide meaningful value for both the CDA and its industry partners while advancing public awareness around effective sun protection and skin health.
SPP continues to offer a win-win opportunity for both CDA and its Industry partners.
Did you know in a recent omnibus survey of nearly 800 Canadians, 77% said that they would be more likely to select a sunscreen product bearing the CDA logo?
As a sun safety education program, CDA will not consider any product that is marketed for tanning and insists that manufacturers take a proactive stance regarding protection against sun damage to the skin.
Partners interested in applying for recognition must submit an application for each product, along with supporting documentation, relevant independent laboratory testing, formulation details, and proposed product labeling and advertising materials for review. Applications are assessed against program-specific dermatological criteria and applicable regulatory requirements.
For detailed application requirements, program timelines, fee structure, recognition statements, and submission information, complete the form below.