Cosmetics FAQs

 

What are the limits for an SPF test result for a moisturiser containing a secondary sunscreen?

All products with an SPF stated on the label must comply with the Australia New Zealand Standard for the evaluation and classification of sunscreen products, AS/NZS 2604:1998. Under the Standard, the test result (mean protection factor) for a sunscreen product must be the same as or higher than the SPF stated on the label, and must be within the same category description as the SPF stated on the label. For moisturisers with secondary sunscreens, the SPF on the label must be no more than 15 for the product to be considered a cosmetic. For a product labelled SPF15, the tested protection factor must be in the range 15-29 (inclusive).

SPF CATEGORY DESCRIPTIONS

Tested protection factor	Category description
At least 2 but less than 4	Very low protection sunscreen
At least 4 but less than 8	Low protection sunscreen
At least 8 but less than 15	Moderate protection sunscreen
At least 15 but less than 30	High protection sunscreen
30 or more	Very high protection sunscreen

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