In Australia, the country with the world’s highest skin cancer rate, the scandal for faulty sunscreen continues to grow. In the meantime, 18 products were removed from the market after it turned out that they offered significantly less protection than the manufacturers promised.
From “SPF 50+” to “SPF 4”
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The trigger was an analysis of a consumer protection organization in June: Several popular, sometimes high -priced products did not adhere to the protected protective factors. The result was particularly drastically designed by Ultra Violette’s “Lean Screen Skinsscreen”. Instead of the designated light protection factor (SPF) 50+, the remedy only showed SPF 4. The product was voluntarily called back in August.
The Australian drug supervision Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) Now warned that further sunscreen are affected – a total of up to 20 products based on the same basic formula. Initial tests indicated that the actual SPF value of this recipe was “barely over 21” and only reached 4 for some products.
Of the 21 identified products, eight have been called back, at ten the sale is suspended, two more are under observation. A product is produced in Australia, but is not sold there.
Criticed An US Test Labor
The US laboratory is at the center of criticism Princeton Consumer Research Corp (PCR Corp)which many manufacturers had commissioned to check their products. The TGA expressed “significant concerns” of its test procedures and questioned the reliability of the results.
PCR defended itself in a statement to the BBC: deviations could result from factors such as differences between production hinges, storage conditions or age of the product. You can only guarantee the tested patterns.
Manufacturer rejects allegations
The affected company Wild Child Laboratoriesthat produces the basic formula stopped its production. Managing Director Tom Curnow emphasized that the TGA had no defects found in the manufacture. The problem is part of a “industry -wide challenge”. The cooperation with PCR has now ended and new tests have been commissioned from independent laboratories.
Global effects possible
Australia is considered a pioneer because of its strict sun protection regulations. But experts warn that the scandal could also have consequences internationally. Because in addition to manufacturing problems, the test methods are now also being tested-with potential consequences for the entire global sun protection industry.
