Recent testing by Australian consumer group Choice has revealed a concerning reality: more than half of popular sunscreens available in New Zealand don’t live up to their SPF claims. With 16 out of 20 tested products failing to meet their advertised protection levels – including one SPF50+ product that tested at just SPF4 – this news serves as an important reminder about the critical role of sunscreen regulation and consumer awareness in our fight against skin cancer.
RNZ: 11 sunscreens sold in NZ don’t meet SPF claims
The testing results: what they mean for you
The Choice testing uncovered significant variations in actual SPF performance. While most products still provided moderate to high protection, the range was troubling – from La Roche-Posay Anthelios testing above its claim at SPF72, to Ultra Violette’s Lean Screen dramatically underperforming at just SPF4 despite being labelled SPF50+.
These results highlight why rigorous, independent testing matters. When you’re relying on sunscreen as your primary defence against harmful UV radiation, you need confidence that the product delivers what it promises.
New Zealand’s regulatory system
The good news is that New Zealand has strengthened its sunscreen regulation significantly. The Sunscreen (Product Safety Standard) Act 2022 now requires sunscreens sold here to meet the Australian and New Zealand sunscreen standard, including requirements for independent testing.
Why this matters for New Zealand
New Zealand has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, making effective sun protection a national priority. Nearly 100,000 people are diagnosed with skin cancers every year in New Zealand representing a significant cost burden on our health system.
At Molecheck, we strongly support MelNet’s Skin Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Strategy, which emphasises that the best avenues for reducing New Zealand’s skin cancer burden are primary prevention and early diagnosis. Reliable sunscreen is a cornerstone of primary prevention, working alongside other sun-safe behaviours like seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding peak UV hours.
What you can do
While regulatory systems work to ensure product quality, there are steps you can take to protect yourself:
Choose wisely: Look for sunscreens from reputable manufacturers who are transparent about their testing practices. Products that consistently perform well in independent testing demonstrate a commitment to quality.
Get the most from your sunscreen: Use approximately one teaspoon for each limb and area of your body, and reapply every two hours or after swimming, sweating, or towelling off.
Don’t rely on sunscreen alone: Combine it with protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, quality sunglasses, and seeking shade during peak UV hours (10am-4pm).
The role of skin cancer screening
Even with the best sun protection practices, monitoring your skin for changes remains essential. Early detection of skin cancer dramatically improves treatment outcomes and reduces the burden on both individuals and our healthcare system.
At Molecheck, we see firsthand how early detection can make the difference between a simple procedure and a complex treatment journey. We recommend regular professional skin checks, particularly for those at higher risk – including people with fair skin, a history of sun exposure, family history of skin cancer, or multiple moles.
Between professional checks, monthly self-examinations using the ABCDE method (looking for Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour variation, Diameter changes, and Evolving characteristics) can help identify concerning changes early.
Moving forward
These testing results, while concerning, ultimately serve as a valuable reminder of why strong regulatory systems matter and why we must all remain vigilant about sun protection.
Remember: your skin health is an investment in your future. Choose protection you can trust, use it properly, and combine it with regular skin monitoring. Early detection can be lifesaving, and prevention remains our most powerful tool.
At Molecheck, we’re committed to supporting New Zealand’s skin health through expert screening, diagnosis, and treatment services in Auckland and Christchurch. Your skin health is our priority.
