03/01/2026
Wondering how well your SPF50+ sunscreen works?
The Visia device was originally invented by Proctor&Gamble to objectively test sunscreens under development. It's still a great device for reviewing sunscreen effectiveness, application technique, and durability of sunscreen effectiveness, amongst many other uses.
In this example, my teenage son demonstrates that his sloppy application of La Roche Posay Anthelios liquid SPF50+ has caused patchy coverage on his face. 🧐 😁
The photo was taken 5hrs after application, in which time he'd been on a one hour run at the beach, eaten lunch, then played basketball on an outdoor court for 1.5hrs.
So we can see in the image that the resulting sun protected areas (the darker areas) are not even across his face, especially on the forehead and perioral areas.
Importantly, even on the areas where he did apply the sunscreen, we can see that the protection is wearing off and that his skin features are becoming visible through the darker zones.
This is also a great reminder that chemically based sunscreens like LRP Anthelios are quickly broken down by exposure to UV light, so need to be reapplied after 2hrs of vigorous exercise or outdoor exposure.
Sunsmart is more than just a careful choice of sunscreen.
Got questions or a specific testing request? Ask away.
Want to test your sunscreen? Bring your sunscreen along & see DrTeska at Skin Temple in 2026. Reopens Jan 14th, 2026.
All bookings 03 9867 2992.