Lab Notes: How is sunscreen SPF tested?

Australia's known for having some of the world's toughest sunscreen standards, but in June, that reputation was rocked.

Independent testing of 20 sunscreens found 16 did not meet their advertised SPF50 rating, including three children's sunscreens and three sold by the Cancer Council.

So how are sunscreens tested, and what can we learn from these recent SPF revelations?

This episode was first broadcast in September 2025.

You can binge more episodes of the Lab Notes podcast with science journalist and presenter Belinda Smith on the ABC Listen app (Australia). You'll find episodes on animal behaviour, human health, space exploration and so much more. Get in touch with us: labnotes@abc.net.au

Featuring:

• John Staton, scientific director at SciPharm

More information:

What is SPF, and how is sunscreen's sun protection factor tested in the laboratory?

Choice report finds popular Australian sunscreens fail to meet SPF claims on label

This episode of Lab Notes was produced on the lands of the Wurundjeri and Menang Noongar people.