Summary
A sunscreen controversy in Australia has led to 18 products being removed from sale due to safety concerns about their sun protection effectiveness. The investigation revealed that some products claimed to have high SPF levels but tested much lower, causing further scrutiny on manufacturing and lab testing processes. The Therapeutic Goods Administration has warned about other products and is reviewing existing SPF testing practices.
Key Facts
- 18 sunscreen products have been pulled from shelves in Australia for safety issues.
- A consumer group found some sunscreens did not meet their advertised SPF protection.
- Ultra Violette's Lean Screen was recalled for offering SPF 4 instead of the claimed SPF 50+.
- The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) warned about up to 20 more products.
- Eight products have been recalled or stopped in manufacturing; ten have paused sales, and two are under review.
- Australia has a high skin cancer rate, prompting strict sunscreen regulations.
- The base formula for several sunscreens is suspected of failing to deliver adequate SPF protection.
- The TGA is concerned about the reliability of SPF testing by a US lab, PCR Corp.
