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Here’s a breakdown of which products have been recalled, the testing methods used in Australia, and tips for staying protected as the country approaches summer.
Which sunscreens have been recalled or placed under review?
In June, an investigation by Choice revealed that 16 out of 20 products from various well-known Australian sunscreen brands did not meet their claimed SPF levels.
The manufacturer reported receiving initial SPF test results for the base formula, indicating an SPF unlikely to exceed 21. Moreover, some items created with this formula could have SPF ratings as low as 4.
— Salus SPF 50+ Daily Facial Sunscreen Broad Spectrum
The sale of 10 products has been paused, with another eight recalled or ceasing production. Two are being reviewed.
How are sunscreens tested in Australia?
The TGA said it’s considering measures to enhance the consistency of SPF testing for all therapeutic sunscreen products in Australia.
On Tuesday, Choice CEO Ashley de Silva called on sunscreen companies to confirm which labs verified their latest SPF results.
Why is it so important to protect yourself from the sun in Australia?
Anne Cust, a cancer epidemiology professor at The University of Sydney, noted that Australians often underestimate just how intense the sun is compared to other parts of the world.
She welcomed the TGA looking at sunscreens as there “needs to be high public confidence in sunscreens”.
How do you choose a sunscreen, and how can you ensure it’s effective?
Despite the importance of purchasing effective sunscreen, Cust emphasized that using enough of it and reapplying it frequently is often even more crucial.
Besides frequent sunscreen application, it’s vital to use additional sun protection measures, such as a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Source: Getty / Liudmila Chernetska/iStockphoto
“Even with a sunscreen that is SPF50, if [people] don’t apply enough, they’re actually not getting the full SPF anyway,” Cust said.
“I think that’s more concerning than whether the SPF is 50 or 30, because there’s not actually a lot of difference in the efficacy of a sunscreen between SPF 50 and 30,” she said.
