Important Update On Sunscreen Recalls- What You Need To Know

Why are sunscreens being recalled?

Early this year Australian Consumer Group Choice took a close look at household sunscreens, including 11 available in New Zealand, and found that 16 out of the 20 tested didn’t meet the mark. While most still provided moderate or high SPF protection, one product - Ultra Violette Lean Screen SPF 50+ Mattifying Zinc Sunscreen - only returned at an SPF of 4. This prompted Australia’s Goods Administration (TGA) to launch a broader review into sunscreen products.

It’s important to understand that most sunscreen brands do not manufacture their own products from start to finish. Many rely on contract manufacturers who use shared base formulations. If one formula is found to be inaccurate, other brands using the same base may also be affected. For this reason, some companies have paused sales while products are re-tested.

What does this mean for sunscreens in New Zealand?

Independent Choice testing found that 11 New Zealand sunscreens labelled SPF 50+ actually performed lower when tested, in most cases still reaching the SPF 30-40 range. At the same time, a few well-known brands performed above their claims (eg: La Roche Posay Anthelios Wet Skin tested at SPF 72).

This highlights the importance of choosing sunscreens that are well tested, regularly reviewed and properly regulated. For the full list of tested sunscreens, see

https://www.rnz.co.nz/life/wellbeing/11-sunscreens-sold-in-new-zealand-don-t-meet-spf-claims-report?

What’s changing with sunscreen standards?

Australia and New Zealand adopted an updated 2021 sunscreen standard which came into effect September 22.

All newly released sunscreens must meet these tougher standards immediately, while existing products have a five-year window to comply. This ensures SPF claims better reflect their labelled protection.

What should you do?

• Check for the AUSTL number on packaging, this confirms the sunscreen is TGA-approved and regulated.
  

• Choose well-established, reputable brands that are transparent about their testing.
  

• Continue to apply sunscreen generously and reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.

The bottom line: These recalls are a sign that the system is working to keep sunscreens effective and trustworthy. By selecting regulated products and applying them correctly, you can feel confident in your sun protection.

Warm regards, Dr Vania Sinovich