Tanning-Products Maker Settles Complaint

A Los Angeles-based tanning-products maker has agreed to spend $1.5 million to warn consumers about the dangers of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and indoor tanning salons, the government said. California SunCare, a privately held company, had falsely claimed in its nationwide advertising that moderate UV exposure provided many health benefits, the Federal Trade Commission announced in Washington. The FTC said the ads also said users of the company’s “heliotherapy” line of lotions, oils and gels--which contained no sunscreens--could reap those benefits while avoiding the dangers of burning and overexposure. Public health officials say tanning--not just burning--can damage the skin and possibly cause skin cancer.