Full Story Can you trust your sunscreen?
Jun 24, 2025
Catie Mcleod, a consumer affairs reporter for Guardian Australia, dives into the recent study by consumer group Choice that questions the effectiveness of popular Australian sunscreens. She discusses the alarming findings that some SPF 50+ products offer less protection than advertised. Catie highlights the backlash from manufacturers disputing the results and the need for clearer regulations from the Therapeutic Goods Administration. With sun safety at stake, she urges consumers to stay informed and choose their sunscreen wisely for real protection.
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Sunscreen SPF Claims Questioned
- Many popular sunscreens claiming SPF 50+ did not meet their SPF claims in tests.
- This raises concerns about sunscreen reliability and consumer trust in Australia.
SPF Testing Method Explained
- SPF testing involves applying sunscreen on volunteers' skin and exposing them to artificial UV.
- Variability arises because different people have different skin, affecting results.
Wide Variation in Sunscreen Performance
- Some high-profile brands like Cancer Council and La Roche-Posay met SPF 50+ claims.
- Others, including costly zinc-based sunscreens, tested well below their claimed SPF rating.