Consumer advocacy group Choice has found that 16 out of 20 popular SPF 50 and 50+ sunscreens sold in Australia do not meet their labelled sun protection factor (SPF) claims. The investigation tested products from major brands including Bondi Sands, Banana Boat, and Cancer Council in accredited laboratories.
The worst-performing product was Ultra Violette's Lean Screen SPF 50+, which tested at an SPF of just four in the first round and five in a second validation test. Ultra Violette disputed the findings, stating its own full 10-person panel test returned an SPF of 61.7, above the TGA threshold for a 50+ claim.
Other products that fell short include Coles Sunscreen Ultra Tube (SPF 43), Nivea Sun Kids and Sun Protect lotions (SPF 41 and 40), and Sun Bum Premium Moisturising Sunscreen Lotion (SPF 40). Several more tested in the 30s and 20s, such as Banana Boat SPF50+ Lotion (35), Bondi Sands Fragrance Free (32), and Cancer Council Kids Clear Zinc (33).
Only four products met their claims: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Wet Skin (SPF 72), Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Lotion (SPF 56), Cancer Council Kid Sunscreen 50+ (SPF 52), and Mecca Cosmetica To Save Body SPF 50+ (SPF 51). Choice CEO Ashley de Silva expressed shock at the results, noting that sunscreens with lower SPF still offer protection but consumers expect accuracy.
