After tests find 16 of 20 popular products fail protection claims, Australia may tighten sunscreen testing
Tests prompt proposed changes
The proposed rules follow findings that 16 of 20 popular sunscreens did not meet their labelled sun protection factor, or SPF. Until now, makers were required to provide test results only when the regulator asked for them.
Ultra Violette’s Lean Screen SPF 50+ Mattifying Zinc Skinscreen recorded an SPF of 4. It was later withdrawn, as were other sunscreens made with the same base formula.
Company response and regulator access
The product’s co-founders, Ava Chandler-Matthews and Bec Jefferd, apologised to customers last year, offered refunds and urged people to stop using it, according to reports. The proposed system would keep test results confidential and would not require routine TGA checks before products reached stores, ABC News reported.
The TGA’s chief medical adviser, Robyn Langham, said the changes aim to make SPF claims more dependable, strengthen suppliers’ responsibility and help the regulator obtain evidence more quickly when concerns arise. Choice argued that results should be public and that the TGA should regularly review tests and carry out its own compliance checks.
Consultation and next steps
Some foundations and other cosmetics sold in Australia can carry SPF 50+ claims, even though sun protection is not their main purpose. The issue therefore extends beyond products marketed primarily as sunscreen.
The TGA received 119 submissions in a consultation held from March to May 2026. It says some measures could come in the short term, while others would need more consultation or changes to legislation.
Key points
- Testing found 16 of 20 popular sunscreens fell short of their labelled protection.
- One Ultra Violette product recorded SPF 4 and was withdrawn with products using the same base formula.
- The proposal would keep test results confidential and would not require routine checks before sale.
- The TGA received 119 submissions and says some changes may require further consultation or legislation.