TWO new methods for measuring sunscreen SPF have recently been approved by the International Organization for Standardization and are now accepted for SPF labelling in Europe and the UK.

One is fully in vitro, and the other is a combination of human testing – but with much lower doses of UV radiation – and in vitro measurement.

The current test method required for use in Australia involves exposing people to higher levels of UV radiation; can only be used on certain skin tones; and produces variable results both between and within labs.

The reliability of the tests came under fire after recent sunscreen tests commissioned by Choice found that only four of 20 products had an SPF higher than 50 (PD 17 Jun), with manufacturers arguing that their own commissioned testing showed otherwise.

The international updated methods offer better consistency and reproducibility across different labs; do not rely on burning human skin; and work effectively on all skin types.

Their main disadvantage is that they do not measure the performance of sunscreen after swimming, which is required for sunscreens to make claims about water resistance, Adjunct Associate Professor Craig Sinclair, Head of Prevention at the Cancer Council Victoria, told Pharmacy Daily.

For this testing, human testing will still be needed, he explained.

Regardless, Associate Professor Sinclair added that at this stage, there are no imminent plans for the new standards to be adopted in Australia until the peer-reviewed data regarding the efficacy of the testing is made available.

In Europe and the UK, where sunscreens are considered cosmetics, the adoption process is less complex than in Australia, NZ and the US where they are regulated as therapeutic products.

However, Associate Professor Sinclair said the new tests will be useful for testing secondary sunscreens – products such as moisturisers and lip balms with sun protection – that do not make water-resistance claims.

They will also be useful for manufacturers developing new products, providing an indication of SPF quickly and cheaply.

“With so much debate and concern about how we measure SPF in sunscreens, it is reassuring to learn that future sunscreen testing methods will deliver far more consistent results without requiring human testing,” said Associate Professor Sinclair.

“This will ultimately boost consumer confidence in sunscreens, which is needed now more than ever.” KB

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