Since last July the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has had data from studies examining a potential correlation between retinyl palmitate, a common chemical in sunscreen, and elevated cancer risk in lab rats, the agency has been slow to interpret the findings and offer guidance to the public, charges Senator Charles Schumer (D-NY). With beach season upon us, Schumer calls on the FDA to examine the available data and advise the public on the best way to reduce cancer risk. To learn more about what these initial findings mean for you — and your sunscreen habits — TIME spoke with Sacramento-based dermatologist Dr. Margaret Parsons.
