Sunscreen Test Results Reveal Over 80% Underperform on Labelled Protection The Consumer Council conducted a test on 30 daily-use sunscreen products, revealing that more than 80% failed to meet their labelled efficacy, raising concerns about increased risks of skin damage. --- Key Findings Underperformance in SPF (UVB Protection): 4 models had SPF values below 15; 2 were labelled SPF50+ but performed poorly. Only 4 out of 14 "high protection" (SPF30-SPF50) products met the European Union (EU) Cosmetics Regulation SPF requirements. Among 16 "very high protection" (SPF50+) models, only 1 complied fully with EU standards. Some products labeled SPF50+ had actual SPF as low as 11.7 and 14.3. UVA Protection (PA System) Issues: 23 products used the "PA system" indicating UVA protection levels. Only 7 met or exceeded their labelled PA levels based on measured UVA Protection Factors (UVAPF). UVAPF values ranged broadly (3.3 to 67.3), with 9 products reaching the highest PA++++ rating (UVAPF >16). Labelling and Ingredient Disclosure: Only 19 products listed major ingredients; some listed ingredients only in Japanese, limiting consumer awareness. 21 products lacked suggested usage quantities. 3 products did not have expiry dates. Price vs Quality: Prices ranged from HKD 80 to 550 (per gram/ml cost ranged HKD 0.7 to 16.1). The second-cheapest product scored the highest in performance. No clear correlation between price and sunscreen quality. --- Testing Methodology The test followed EU Cosmetics Regulation standards for SPF and UVA efficacy. SPF values were measured through in vivo testing with 10 trial users' back skin. UVA protection assessed by determining UVAPF and critical wavelength via UV light penetration tests on sunscreen-applied synthetic skin films. Key EU labelling requirements for sunscreen: SPF label must be supported by passing related in vivo tests. UVAPF must be at least one third of SPF. Critical wavelength should be at least 370 nm. --- Health Implications UVA rays contribute to skin aging, wrinkles, darkening, and may promote skin cancer. UVB rays cause DNA damage on skin surface, sunburn, and are a major cause of skin cancer. Sunscreens failing to deliver labelled protection increase risk of skin damage and diseases. --- Consumer Recommendations Avoid prolonged skin exposure to direct sunlight to minimize UV harm. Choose sunscreens carefully by: Checking for allergen information. For sensitive skin or eczema, opt for physical filter sunscreens (may appear whiter and thicker but are less allergenic). Recognizing that SPF50 offers about 98% UVB protection; very high SPF may clog pores or cause irritation. Considering UV index forecasts and activity duration when selecting product SPF. Apply sunscreen properly: About 1 teaspoon for the face. Reapply every 2-3 hours during outdoor activities. Cleansing sunscreen thoroughly with suitable makeup remover or cleanser. Do not use expired products as preservative loss can lead to microbial growth. Pay attention to clear product labelling and expiry dates. --- Consumer Council’s Call to Manufacturers Review and improve production quality and efficacy validation. Ensure accurate, clear, and comprehensive labelling according to international best practices. Provide guidance on usage quantity and ingredient transparency to aid consumer understanding and safety. --- The full report with detailed test results is published in CHOICE magazine and available online at the Consumer Council website. --- Published Date: October 15, 2020 Consumer Council © 2025