Ultra Violette has withdrawn its Lean Screen SPF 50+ sunscreen from shelves after independent tests revealed inconsistent SPF results, with some tests showing SPF as low as 4, far below the advertised level.

The company recalled the product following findings that its SPF levels were significantly below the claimed SPF 50+, prompting concerns about consumer protection.

SPF measures UV protection, and while SPF 50 is supposed to block about 98% of UV rays, the tested product's low SPF results indicate it offers much less protection.

Ultra Violette acknowledged the need to rebuild consumer trust by committing to greater transparency and implementing stricter quality controls for future products.

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) announced an investigation into the SPF testing practices following the findings, emphasizing the importance of truthful labeling and proper regulation in Australia.

The TGA is exploring more reliable testing methods amid ongoing concerns about SPF variability and the accuracy of sunscreen labels.

The company advised consumers to stop using the affected product and expressed regret over the recall.

Broader concerns about sunscreen regulation in Australia were raised by a consumer investigation, questioning the reliability of SPF claims across multiple brands.

Ultra Violette stated that Lean Screen was produced by a third-party manufacturer, which they will no longer use, and pledged to improve testing protocols, including mandatory testing by multiple labs and increased retesting.

Affected customers will receive refunds and vouchers, and the company apologized for the product’s failure to meet quality standards.

Ultra Violette highlighted that other products showed consistent and reliable SPF performance, despite the issues with Lean Screen.

This recall follows a June report by consumer group CHOICE, which found that 16 out of 20 tested sunscreens, including brands like Banana Boat, Cancer Council, Bondi Sands, and Ultra Violette, failed to meet their SPF claims.