Australia’s Sunscreen Shakeup: What Consumers Demand to Know
Australia is on the cusp of significant changes to how sunscreen is regulated, tested, and labelled, following revelations that many popular brands failed to deliver on their SPF promises. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has opened consultation on proposed reforms, spurred by a 2025 CHOICE investigation that found a concerning number of sunscreens didn’t meet their stated SPF claims.
The Fallout from Failed SPF Tests
Last year, CHOICE’s testing revealed that 16 out of 20 sunscreens fell short of their advertised SPF levels. One product, Ultra Violette’s Lean Screen, claimed an SPF of 50+ but tested at a mere SPF of 4, leading to a voluntary recall. The TGA’s subsequent investigation raised “significant concerns” about the SPF testing of almost two dozen products sharing the same base formula.
This isn’t just about misleading labels; it’s a public health issue. Australia has the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, with around 2,000 deaths annually and an estimated two in three Australians developing skin cancer in their lifetime. Reliable sun protection is therefore critical.
What’s Changing? A Focus on Transparency and Testing
The proposed reforms aim to bolster consumer confidence by improving the reliability and transparency of SPF testing. Key changes include requiring accreditation for testing laboratories and expanding testing requirements. Currently, sunscreens are categorized as medicines in Australia but are monitored after they’re on the market, rather than undergoing pre-market assessment. This overhaul seeks to shift towards more proactive regulation.
“Proposals to improve and expand testing requirements, require accreditation for testing laboratories, and increase transparency will support restore consumer trust in the reliability of SPF claims,” stated Andy Kelly, Director of Campaigns at CHOICE.
The Controversial Proposal: Ditching SPF Numbers?
One of the most debated proposals is to replace the current SPF numbering system with a simpler “low, medium, high, and very high” labelling scheme. Whereas intended to reduce confusion, CHOICE has voiced opposition, arguing that consumers are already familiar with SPF numbers and that the focus should be on ensuring those numbers are accurate.
“People are already familiar with the current SPF numbering system and it’s used around the world. The numbers just need to be accurate,” Kelly explained.
Experts have similarly pointed out inherent variability in sunscreen testing, suggesting the current system doesn’t fully account for these fluctuations. Cosmetic chemist Michelle Wong noted last year that some SPF testing feels more like a “marketing exercise” than a true reflection of efficacy.
What Won’t Be Included in the Review
The TGA’s review will not cover the safety of sunscreen ingredients, nor will it address products specifically designed for children. This means these areas will remain subject to existing regulations.
Future Trends: Beyond SPF
While the immediate focus is on SPF accuracy, the broader conversation around sun protection is evolving. Expect to see increased scrutiny of sunscreen formulations, particularly cosmetic sunscreens claiming high protection. There’s also growing interest in broader-spectrum protection, addressing not just UVB rays (which cause sunburn) but also UVA rays (linked to premature aging and skin cancer).
Despite the issues highlighted by CHOICE, it’s important to remember that the vast majority of sunscreens tested provided adequate protection. CHOICE reported that 95% of the tested sunscreens had an SPF high enough to significantly reduce the incidence of skin cancer.
FAQ
Q: Will the changes make sunscreen more expensive?
A: It’s too early to say definitively, but increased testing and accreditation requirements could potentially lead to higher production costs.
Q: What should I do in the meantime?
A: Continue to use sunscreen regularly, apply it generously, and reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
Q: Are all sunscreen brands affected by these concerns?
A: The CHOICE investigation focused on a specific set of products, but the TGA’s reforms are intended to address systemic issues across the industry.
Q: Will the new labelling system be confusing?
A: That’s a concern raised by CHOICE. They believe consumers understand SPF numbers and that accuracy is more important than simplification.
Did you know? Australia has some of the strictest sunscreen regulations in the world, yet these reforms are still deemed necessary to ensure consumer safety.
Pro Tip: Don’t rely on sunscreen alone. Combine it with other sun-safe practices like seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding peak sun hours.
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