Level 1:
“Make Sunscreen Better in America! Sunscreen is like lotion that stops the sun from hurting our skin. Some people in charge want to fix it because ours isn’t as good as other countries’. But they haven’t done much yet. A lady named AOC wants to help. She told people to tell the important people in Congress to do something. Sunscreen rules are different here and in other places. We have fewer kinds of sunscreen. Other places have more and cooler ones. Some people on the internet talk about these cool sunscreens. They say they’re better and feel nice. But we don’t have them here. Doctors say our sunscreen is okay for some things but not others. AOC and others use sunscreen from far away. It’s not sticky like ours. It’s smooth like lotion. Some think our sunscreen needs an upgrade. People want sun protection that’s safe and feels good. Should we ask for better sunscreen? The sun’s waiting!”
Level 2:
“Time to Improve Sunscreen in the US! Sunscreen keeps our skin safe from the sun’s rays. But America’s sunscreen isn’t the best. Other countries have cooler ones. AOC, a leader, wants to change this. She asks people to tell important leaders in Congress to help. Sunscreen rules are different in each place. We don’t have as many kinds as other countries. People on the internet like different sunscreens. They say they’re better. But we can’t buy them here. Doctors say our sunscreen is good but not for everything. AOC and others use sunscreen from far places. It’s smooth, not sticky. They say we need better sunscreen. We want sun protection that’s safe and feels nice. Should we ask for better sunscreen? Let’s talk about it!”
Full Story:
For years now, folks have been talking about how US sunscreen just doesn’t cut it. You know, when you compare it to what they’ve got in other parts of the world, it’s like comparing a scooter to a sleek sports car. Congress thought about making things better almost a decade ago, but guess what? Not much has really changed since then. But hold on, because things might finally be shifting gear. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, or AOC as you might know her, isn’t letting this slide. She’s on a mission, and she’s dragging Congress and the FDA into the spotlight. So, what’s all the fuss about?
Here’s the deal: sunscreen in the US gets treated like a medicine by the FDA. But over in other countries, it’s seen as more of a beauty thing, you know, like makeup. And that’s where the trouble starts. The FDA has its rules, which are supposed to keep us safe, but they’re also kind of putting a brake on things. They haven’t given the green light to new sunscreen ingredients in more than two decades. Meanwhile, Europe’s got over 30 different sunscreen filters, while we’re stuck with just 14. And hey, Asia’s got some pretty nifty products too.
Have you ever noticed that those TikTok and Instagram skin-care gurus are always raving about the latest and greatest overseas products? Yeah, they’re not just doing it for the ‘likes.’ Those products are a whole new level of cool that we’re missing out on. And it’s not just about looking good, it’s about staying safe in the sun. Dermatologists are waving the caution flag, pointing out that our sunscreens are awesome at fending off UVB rays, but not so hot at protecting us from the potentially more harmful UVA rays. Yikes, right?
AOC’s not just talking the talk; she’s walking the walk. She’s joined the ranks of those who’ve given up on American sunscreens and turned to foreign options. Can you blame her? Those international sunscreens don’t feel like a sticky mess on your skin. It’s more like putting on some fancy moisturizer. Imagine that—a sunscreen that doesn’t feel like one! She’s got a point, though. Why should we have to walk around feeling all greased up when there are smoother options out there?
The technology game has moved on, and other countries are rocking sunscreen that doesn’t feel like a chore. Think about it: sunscreen that’s like a friend rather than an annoying guest. Wouldn’t that make us more likely to use it, even on those days when we’re not hitting the beach? And what’s the deal with the whole “European and Asian products are superior” thing? Is it just some kind of hype, or is there some real magic happening in those bottles?
You might be wondering why this is such a big deal. Well, picture this: you’re planning a day out in the sun. You grab your bottle of sunscreen, but the thought of putting on that gooey, white layer isn’t exactly thrilling. Now, imagine if you had a sunscreen that was smooth and easy to apply. You’d probably be more eager to use it, right? And while we’re at it, can we talk about how the sunscreens we’re slathering on might not be as protective as we think? It’s like thinking you’re all covered, but there’s still a gap in the armor.
Let’s break it down even more. See, European and Asian sunscreens are like those sleek, high-tech gadgets you can’t help but drool over. They use some next-level ingredients that not only shield you from the sun but also feel amazing on your skin. It’s like giving your skin a treat while protecting it from harm. Now, why aren’t we getting a taste of that goodness right here?
Amanda Mull gave this whole sunscreen situation a good think in 2022. And you know what she said? She pointed out that people across the pond and over in Asia are living the good life with their sunscreen. So, why are we missing out on something that should be a basic right? Are we just accepting less when we should be demanding better? It’s like being served a burger without the toppings – sure, it’s a burger, but where’s the flavor?
Hold up, though. Not everyone’s on the same page here. Some folks say we’re actually going a little overboard with the whole sunscreen thing. They’re like, “Hey, maybe we’re slathering on more than we need.” Could there be some truth to that? Is there a balance between soaking up the sun’s rays and hiding from them completely? It’s like trying to find the sweet spot between staying safe and actually enjoying the great outdoors.
So, here’s the bottom line: we’ve got a sunscreen situation that’s been stuck in neutral for way too long. Congress had an idea, but it got lost somewhere along the way. AOC’s shining a light on it again, and it’s about time. We shouldn’t be settling for less when the rest of the world is getting the good stuff. It’s like driving a clunker when you could be cruising in style. So, let’s get the conversation rolling. Shouldn’t we all be able to enjoy sun protection that’s not only effective but also feels fantastic on our skin? It’s time to rev up the sunscreen game and finally put America back in the driver’s seat.
Remember, this isn’t just about looking good—it’s about feeling good and staying safe. And hey, who wouldn’t want a sunscreen that’s as smooth as our favorite moisturizer? So, what do you say? Ready to demand some sunscreen upgrades? The sun’s not waiting, and neither should we.
Questions:
Question: Why is there a push to improve sunscreen in the US?
Answer: There’s a strong effort to enhance sunscreen in the US because it’s not as good as what other countries have. The quality of our sunscreen doesn’t match up to theirs. AOC, a well-known leader, is making this a big deal. She’s asking people to tell important leaders in Congress to take action. Sunscreen should protect us from the sun’s rays, but the kind we have in the US isn’t as great as what’s available in other places. AOC wants better rules. Right now, our sunscreen doesn’t have as many different types as in other countries. It’s like we’re missing out on the cool sunscreens that others use. This needs to change, and AOC wants everyone to talk about it.
Question: How does the regulation of sunscreen in the US differ from that in other countries?
Answer: The rules for sunscreen in the US are not the same as in other countries. Here, the FDA treats sunscreen like medicine. But in other places, it’s seen more as something for beauty. This means the FDA has strict rules to keep people safe, but it also slows down progress. The FDA hasn’t allowed new sunscreen ingredients for a long time—over 20 years! Meanwhile, other countries have way more options, like more than 30 types of sunscreen filters. This makes it hard for the US to keep up. Other places, especially in Europe and Asia, have sunscreens that are like magic. They’re not just good at stopping one type of sun ray, but two kinds. So, while we’re playing catch-up, they’re enjoying better sun protection.
Question: How does AOC feel about the current state of sunscreen in the US?
Answer: AOC is really concerned about how sunscreen works in the US. She thinks it’s time to make it better. She’s not just talking about it—she’s taking action. She’s asking everyone to speak up and tell Congress to pay attention. AOC uses sunscreens from other countries herself. She finds them more comfortable and not sticky like the ones we have here. She believes that sunscreen should be like a friend, not a bother. AOC wants everyone to have sunscreen that feels good, protects well, and is easy to use. So, she’s using her voice to bring this issue to the front and center.
Question: Why do some people think that US sunscreens need an upgrade?
Answer: Some people believe that the sunscreens in the US need to be improved because they’re not as effective and pleasant as those in other countries. While American sunscreens are good at guarding against certain sun rays, they’re not as skilled at protecting us from other potentially harmful rays. This makes them less reliable overall. People, including dermatologists, agree that sunscreen in the US doesn’t feel as nice on the skin. This could be why some folks, like AOC, use sunscreens from other countries that feel better and offer better protection. The technology has improved, and US sunscreens need to catch up to keep our skin safe and comfortable.
Question: Do you think it’s important for the US to improve its sunscreen regulations and products?
Answer: In my opinion, it’s really important for the US to step up its sunscreen game. The article shows that our sunscreens are falling behind those in other countries. With more and better options available elsewhere, it’s not fair that we’re missing out on these benefits. AOC’s call to action seems justified, as we all deserve sunscreen that’s both protective and pleasant to use. With more advanced ingredients and a wider range of choices, we can make sure our skin stays safe and healthy. It’s time for the US to give its citizens the same high-quality sunscreens that people enjoy in other parts of the world.
Fill in the Blanks:
smooth, filters, rolling, Congress, ingredients, shield, gurus, protective, harmful, upgrade, neutral, Yikes, demand, spotlight, nifty, slathering, gear, moisturizer, sleek, caution
You know, when you compare it to what they’ve got in other parts of the world, it’s like comparing a scooter to a ________ sports car.
________ thought about making things better almost a decade ago, but guess what?
But hold on, because things might finally be shifting ________.
She’s on a mission, and she’s dragging Congress and the FDA into the ________.
They haven’t given the green light to new sunscreen ________ in more than two decades.
Meanwhile, Europe’s got over 30 different sunscreen ________, while we’re stuck with just 14.
And hey, Asia’s got some pretty ________ products too.
Have you ever noticed that those TikTok and Instagram skin-care ________ are always raving about the latest and greatest overseas products?
Dermatologists are waving the ________ flag, pointing out that our sunscreens are awesome at fending off UVB rays, but not so hot at protecting us from the potentially more ________ UVA rays.
________, right?
It’s more like putting on some fancy ________.
Now, imagine if you had a sunscreen that was ________ and easy to apply.
And while we’re at it, can we talk about how the sunscreens we’re ________ on might not be as ________ as we think?
They use some next-level ingredients that not only ________ you from the sun but also feel amazing on your skin.
So, here’s the bottom line: we’ve got a sunscreen situation that’s been stuck in ________ for way too long.
So, let’s get the conversation ________.
Ready to ________ some sunscreen upgrades?
Some think our sunscreen needs an ________.
Vocabulary:
Sub-par: Below average or below standard; not up to the expected level of quality.
Percolating: Developing or progressing gradually; becoming more noticeable or active over time.
Implores: Strongly asks or begs someone to do something.
Congressmen and congresswoman: Male and female members of the Congress, the legislative body of the United States government.
Regulated: Controlled or governed according to rules or regulations.
Cosmetic: Related to beauty or appearance, especially products used to enhance one’s appearance.
Stringent: Strict or severe; requiring precise adherence to rules or standards.
Ingredients: Components or parts that make up a whole, especially in the context of products or recipes.
Filters: Substances or materials used to remove or block certain elements or particles from a mixture.
European Union: A political and economic union of European countries that have agreed to work closely together.
Sophisticated: Highly developed, advanced, or intricate; often used to describe complex technology or ideas.
Influencers: Individuals with a significant online presence and a large following, who can impact trends and opinions.
Frenzy: A state of excitement or enthusiasm; often used to describe intense activity or interest.
Dermatologist: A medical doctor specializing in the study and treatment of skin-related issues.
UVB rays: Ultraviolet B rays, a type of ultraviolet radiation from the sun that can cause skin damage.
UVA rays: Ultraviolet A rays, another type of ultraviolet radiation that can be more harmful to the skin.
Obtrusively: In a way that attracts attention in an unwanted or intrusive manner.
Moisturizer: A product used to hydrate and soften the skin, often applied after cleansing.
Assessed: Evaluated or examined something in order to understand or judge its value or quality.
Overuse: Excessive or too frequent use of something beyond what is considered appropriate or beneficial.
Upgrade: Improve or enhance the quality, performance, or features of something.
Congress: The legislative body of a country; in the US, it refers to the Senate and the House of Representatives.
Shift: Change or move from one position, direction, or situation to another.
Gear: Equipment or machinery, especially used in the context of vehicles.
Spotlight: Attention or focus on something, often in a prominent or noticeable way.
Fuss: A state of excitement, agitation, or concern about something; often over minor issues.
Treatment: Medical care or attention given to a person or condition to improve health or well-being.
Green light: Approval or permission to proceed with a certain action or plan.
Caution: Warning or careful consideration of potential dangers or risks.
Fending off: Defending against or repelling something, often used in the context of threats or attacks.
Smooth: Having a consistent and even surface; free from roughness or irregularities.
Nifty: Clever, useful, or attractive in a smart and practical way.
Slathering: Applying a thick or generous amount of something, often used in the context of spreading substances on the skin.
Shield: Protect or guard against something, often used in the context of providing defense or cover.
Yikes: An exclamation used to express surprise, shock, or mild distress.
Waving the caution flag: Signaling a warning or expressing concern about a potential issue.
Greased up: Covered or coated with a slippery substance, often used informally to describe feeling oily or sticky.
Sleek: Smooth, glossy, and elegant in appearance or design.
Gurus: Experts or authorities in a particular field who are often looked up to for guidance or advice.
Raving about: Speaking or writing enthusiastically and positively about something.
Harmful: Causing damage, injury, or negative effects; detrimental.
Drool over: Admire or desire something greatly, often with a sense of longing or fascination.
Ingredients: Components or elements that make up a mixture or compound.
Treat: Something enjoyable or special that brings pleasure or comfort.
Rev up: Increase the speed, energy, or activity of something; often used in the context of engines or activities.
Driver’s seat: A position of control or influence; often used to describe being in charge or leading.
Scoop out: Remove or extract something from a container using a spoon or similar tool.
Neutral: Not favoring any side or position; neither positive nor negative.
Shining a light on: Bringing attention to or highlighting a particular issue or topic.
Bottom line: The most important point or conclusion; the essential or ultimate result.
Demand: Strongly request or require something, often with a sense of urgency.
Slick: Smooth and slippery in texture or appearance.
Protective: Providing defense or guarding against harm, damage, or danger.
Slather: Spread or apply a thick layer of something, often used in the context of substances on the skin.
Sweet spot: An optimal or ideal point that balances different factors or qualities.
Rolling: Starting or initiating a process or action; often used to describe a gradual beginning.
Upgrade: Improve or enhance the quality, performance, or features of something.
Sun protection: Measures taken to shield the skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s rays.
Greased up: Covered or coated with a slippery substance, often used informally to describe feeling oily or sticky.
Upgrade: Improve or enhance the quality, performance, or features of something.
