12/06/2025
Update 19/6: We have updated this statement to provide technical clarification regarding information on laboratory testing and release of information by the TGA. The updated information can be viewed on our website via the link below.
We are aware of a CHOICE report where a number of sunscreens were found to not meet their claimed Sun Protection Factor (SPF) ratings. SPF indicates how effective the sunscreen is against sunburn from the sun’s Ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
In Australia, sunscreens are regulated as either cosmetics or therapeutic goods depending on a number of factors, such as their ingredients, health claims and claimed SPF. Sunscreens with a primary purpose of UV protection are considered to be therapeutic goods and are regulated by us to ensure their safety, quality and efficacy.
We will be investigating the CHOICE findings and will take regulatory action as required. We cannot comment on individual matters including whether products may be subject to investigation or compliance and enforcement activity, or the status of any such investigation and activity.
Given Australia’s high incidence of skin cancer, we reiterate that using sunscreen is an important measure to prevent harmful effects of UV radiation, in addition to seeking shade, wearing a wide-brimmed hat, wearing protective clothing and using sunglasses.
We note that several of the products in the CHOICE report provided results in the range of SPF 30. SPFs in the range of 30 to 59 provide ‘High protection’, while a SPF of 60 or higher (SPF 50+) provides ‘Very high’ protection. Therefore, products with an SPF of 30 are effective to use.
Currently, the universally accepted method of sunscreen SPF testing is using human subjects. It is a known issue that there is variability in SPF testing results across laboratories because testing on humans can be highly subjective and the response to a test can differ dramatically from one individual to another.
The TGA does not conduct human or animal testing. Where necessary, the TGA has outsourced SPF testing to accredited laboratories.
Read more: https://www.tga.gov.au/news/news/updated-tga-statement-choice-spf-sunscreen-findings