Sunscreen Scandal: Major Brands Fail SPF Tests, Spark Safety Concerns and Regulatory Scrutiny
June 12, 2025
Choice has alerted the TGA and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) about their findings and urged the TGA to conduct its own compliance testing.
Ultra Violette defended its product, claiming the SPF 4 result was impossible given its zinc oxide content and adherence to TGA guidelines.
Only the Kid Sunscreen 50+ from the Cancer Council matched its label, scoring SPF 52, while other brands failed to meet their claims.
Several products from the Cancer Council underperformed, with notable examples including Kids Clear Zinc 50+ testing at SPF 33 and Everyday Value Sunscreen 50 at SPF 27.
Choice shared its findings with manufacturers, many of whom disputed the results and emphasized their compliance with Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) standards.
Choice's CEO, Ashley de Silva, expressed shock at the results, highlighting the importance of accurate labeling for maintaining consumer trust.
A recent test by consumer group Choice revealed that only four out of 20 major sunscreen brands met their SPF claims, raising concerns about consumer safety.
Ultra Violette's Lean Screen SPF 50+ was the worst performer, testing at an SPF of only four, later confirmed at five by additional testing in Germany.
In response to the findings, Consumer Healthcare Products Australia reassured the public about the quality and safety of Australian sunscreens, citing stringent industry standards.
Despite the lower SPF ratings, dermatology experts emphasized that products with SPF 30 or 20 still offer significant sun protection compared to using no sunscreen at all.
Currently, the TGA relies on manufacturer reports for sunscreen safety and efficacy, which may not provide accurate information for consumers.
The TGA and ACCC are now investigating the discrepancies highlighted by Choice's testing, which could lead to further scrutiny of sunscreen products.
Summary based on 4 sources
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Sources

The Guardian • Jun 11, 2025
Several leading Australian sunscreens don’t provide the protection they say, according to Choice
ABC News • Jun 12, 2025
Choice report finds popular Australian sunscreens fail to meet SPF claims on label
news.com.au — Australia’s leading news site for latest headlines • Jun 11, 2025
‘Doesn’t match’: Shocking sunscreen find
The West Australian • Jun 11, 2025
Consumer group tests burn sunscreens over SPF 50 claims