TGA tightens sunscreen testing after shock failure of popular brands
Sixteen of twenty popular sunscreens failed to deliver advertised UV protection, prompting stricter testing rules.
In 2025, consumer group Choice investigated twenty popular sunscreens. Sixteen failed to deliver their advertised Sun Protection Factor.
One product, Ultra Violette Lean Screen SPF 50+, showed just four in initial testing and five at another lab. The Therapeutic Goods Administration announced Tuesday it would strengthen rules.
Makers would need to test finished products and give SPF results to the TGA before sale. They must also keep testing throughout shelf life.
Testing labs will need international approval. The regulator will also set quality standards for certain ingredients and limit SPF claims on cosmetics.
Ultra Violette withdrew its Lean Screen product after internal testing showed eight different SPF results, from four to sixty-four. Australia has one of the world's highest skin cancer rates.
About two in three Australians are expected to be diagnosed in their lifetime.
- 16 of 20 sunscreens failed advertised SPF
- Choice test results
- Initial test result
- Ultra Violette Lean Screen SPF 4
- Ranged from 4 to 64
- Ultra Violette internal results
- August
- Withdrawal month
Why it mattersMillions of Australians rely on SPF ratings to protect themselves from sun damage. They deserve to trust those claims.
AustraliaAustralian consumers will now benefit from verified sunscreen testing, while manufacturers face stricter requirements before products reach shelves.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 1 h ago
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