Does your fave sunblock match up to what's said on the bottle? Because there are a few that don't!

Publish Date
Wednesday, 8 December 2021, 3:57PM

"Yes mum, I've got the sunblock!"

Sound familiar? Well, New Zealand's melanoma cancer rates are among the world's worst, so let's hope the one you've got meets the number that it says on the bottle.

But worryingly, some of the sunscreens available to Kiwis are failing to live up to efficacy claims.

Consumer NZ says its latest test of sunscreens highlights the need for mandatory standards for products in New Zealand.

Consumer NZ senior writer Belinda Castles says while the sunscreens might still offer protection, it's an issue if it's not as much as the brand claims.

"It's important that New Zealanders can make informed choices this summer and trust label claims. The Australian and New Zealand sunscreen standard is voluntary in New Zealand, which means products sold here could meet other standards - such as those in the US or EU - or may not have been tested at all," Castles said.

Some sunscreens are still being tested by Consumer NZ, as lockdown restrictions have delayed some procedures.

Last year, only 4 out of 10 sunscreens passed Consumer NZ's SPF label claim test.

Sunscreens that met their claims in 2021:

  • Cetaphil Sun Kids Liposomal Lotion SPF50+

  • UV Guard Max SPF50+

  • Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Lotion SPF50+

  • Eau Thermale Avene Face & Body Lotion SPF50+

  • Reef Coconut Sunscreen Dry-Touch Lotion SPF50

  • Skinnies Sungel SPF30

Sunscreens that failed to meet claims in 2021:

  • Natural Instinct Invisible Natural Sunscreen SPF30 

  • Sukin Suncare Sheer Touch Facial Sunscreen Untinted SPF30 

  • Banana Boat Daily Protect Sunscreen Lotion SPF50 (tested at 40.4)

So if you're looking for summer stocking fillers, perhaps stick to the top of the list! 

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