Update on sunscreen SPF recommendations and FAQs

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and is a measure of the level of protection offered by a sunscreen. The SPF rating is based on how long it takes for intense ultraviolet radiation (specifically UVB) to burn skin with the sunscreen liberally applied compared to bare skin.

Since becoming available in Australia in 2012, SPF50 and SPF50+ sunscreen has increased in popularity and market share. Most primary sunscreens are either SPF50 or SPF50+, with SPF30 primary sunscreens now having less market share. All sunscreens in Australia are regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). SPF30 and SPF50 sunscreens provide a ‘high’ level of protection, while SPF50+ sunscreens provide a ‘very high’ level of protection.

Cancer Council now recommends that Australians use a sunscreen that is SPF50 or SPF50+, broad-spectrum and water-resistant as one of the five forms of sun protection whenever the UV is 3 or above. SPF50 and SPF50+ sunscreens still need to be applied (and reapplied) liberally, as with any sunscreen. 

The SPF rating is based on how long it takes for intense ultraviolet radiation (specifically UVB) to burn skin with the sunscreen liberally applied compared to bare skin. A higher SPF rating indicates that less UVB radiation reaches the skin if the sunscreen is applied according to the directions.

SPF30 is estimated to filter 96.7% of UVB radiation with 1/30th (3.3%) of UV reaching the skin. SPF50 is estimated to filter 98% of UVB radiation with 1/50th (2%) reaching the skin. No sunscreen will block all UV radiation so it is important to remember that sunscreen should always be used in combination with other sun protection measures, including wearing sun protective hats, protective clothing, sunglasses and seeking shade.

The SPF rating indicates the amount of UVB radiation that potentially reaches the skin if the sunscreen is applied according to the directions. The plus sign means ‘more than’, so for a sunscreen product to be classified as SPF50+ it must provide at least SPF60 or more in testing.

SPF50 is estimated to filter 98% of UVB radiation with 1/50th (2%) reaching the skin. SPF50+ is estimated to filter 98.3% of UVB radiation with 1/60th (1.7%) reaching the skin. SPF50 sunscreens provide a ‘high’ level of protection when applied as directed while SPF50+ sunscreens provide a ‘very high’ level of protection when applied as directed. SPF50 and SPF50+ sunscreens still need to be applied liberally as with any sunscreen. 

While Cancer Council recommends choosing SPF50 or SPF50+ sunscreen, it is safe to continue to use any remaining SPF30/SPF30+ sunscreen you still have, as it still provides a high level of protection. Remember to check the expiry date, as products that are past their use-by date will not provide proper protection. Once you have finished any SPF30/SPF30+ sunscreen be sure to purchase SPF50 or SPF50+ sunscreen.

While Cancer Council recommends choosing SPF50 or SPF50+ sunscreen, it is safe to continue to use SPF30 sunscreen, as it still provides a high level of protection. Remember to check the expiry date, as products that are past their use-by date will not provide proper protection. 

SunSmart and the Victorian Department of Education have updated their sun protection policy templates to reflect the changed sunscreen recommendations and they are now available to download and use via the links below. SunSmart recommends all schools, early childhood services and education settings update their policies to reflect the change to the sunscreen SPF recommendation when they next review their policies.

https://www.sunsmart.com.au/advice-for/schools-early-childhood/sunsmart-sample-policies

https://www2.education.vic.gov.au/pal/sun-protection/policy

SPF50 and SPF50+ sunscreens still need to be applied (and reapplied) liberally, as with any sunscreen.

Sunscreens sold in Australia are strictly regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), which determines which ingredients are safe and at what limits. The TGA requires products sold in Australia meet some of the most stringent criteria to ensure they are safe and effective. There is overwhelming evidence that sunscreens approved for use in Australia by the TGA are safe and are effective in preventing skin cancer.