Particle.news
Download on the App Store
8 ARTICLES
·
3d ago

Australia Investigates SPF Sunscreen Failures as Brands Pull Products

The TGA is reviewing evidence after Choice tests reported widespread shortfalls in advertised protection.

Image
Image
Two women wipe sunscreen on the backs of two men on a beach. The men are wearing swimming shorts while the women are in shorts ad in one case a bikini top and the other a sleeveless white top
Did you know that you can develop skin cancer on the palms of your hands, the soles of your feet, or in your nail beds?

Overview

  • Consumer group Choice said 16 of 20 SPF50/50+ sunscreens it tested at an accredited Australian lab failed to meet their labeled SPF, including Ultra Violette’s Lean Screen returning results as low as SPF 4.
  • Ultra Violette has withdrawn Lean Screen, apologised, and cut ties with its original manufacturer and testing lab after highly variable results across multiple tests.
  • Several smaller brands have paused or removed products from sale, including items from Outside Beauty & Skincare, Found My Skin, Endota, and Naked Sundays.
  • The TGA confirms its investigation is ongoing and is reviewing SPF testing requirements, while the ACCC says it is working with the regulator on potential consumer law issues.
  • An ABC investigation reported a US lab certified at least half of the products that failed Choice’s testing and identified a common base formula linked to a Western Australian manufacturer, as public health experts urge continued sunscreen use and sun-safe practices.