The sunscreen scandal in Australia is escalating. Authorities have already removed 18 products from store shelves over safety concerns.
High-profile brands under investigation
In June, a consumer advocacy group revealed that several popular sunscreens failed to provide the protection they claimed. Ultra Violette’s Lean Screen Skinscreen claimed SPF 50+ but tested at only SPF 4. The company recalled the product voluntarily in August.
The medicines regulator later identified 20 more sunscreens from different brands. All used the same base formula, which showed major weaknesses in testing.
SPF levels fall far below claims
Preliminary testing revealed the formula rarely exceeded SPF 21. Some products offered protection as low as SPF 4. Of the 21 products named, eight were recalled or halted. Ten more remain suspended, while two are still under review. One product is manufactured in Australia but not sold domestically.
Rising skin cancer rates fuel public outrage
Australia has the highest skin cancer rate worldwide. Two in three Australians will need at least one cancerous skin removal in their lifetime. Strict sunscreen regulations reflect this risk. The scandal has triggered public anger and raised international concern. Experts now question both sunscreen production and the accuracy of SPF testing.
Manufacturer suspends disputed formula
Wild Child Laboratories Pty Ltd, the maker of the base formula, has stopped production. Chief executive Tom Curnow said regulators found no problems at its facility. He said the discrepancies highlight a wider industry issue.
US laboratory under scrutiny
Regulators have long questioned the reliability of SPF testing. In their latest update, they raised serious concerns about Princeton Consumer Research Corp, a US-based lab. Many sunscreen makers relied on its results to confirm SPF claims.
Mr Curnow confirmed Wild Child ended its partnership with the US laboratory. He said the company now works with accredited independent testers. Regulators contacted all firms linked to the disputed formula or the lab. They also wrote to Princeton Consumer Research Corp but have received no reply.
