Regulations > SPF/Sun | Cosmetics & Toiletries

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PCR Responds to Allegations of Misleading SPF Reports, Unethical Practices

PCR has released a statement responding to recent headlines on "SPF retesting, media reports and misinformation," citing flaws in re-testing, low-quality raw materials and insufficient credentials for the industry expert cited in our reports.

If finalized, this proposal would expand the range of active ingredients considered generally recognized as safe and effective (GRASE) for use in sunscreens by adults and children six months of age and older.

FDA Endorses Bemotrizinol Amid Push for Modernized OTC and Sunscreen Standards

Sci Pharm Test Tool

SciPharm Unveils Audit Kit for Sunscreen Test Report Evaluation

Reimagining Biodegradable Color Cosmetics: Eastman Esmeri™ CC1N10

Reimagining Biodegradable Color Cosmetics: Eastman Esmeri™ CC1N10

As regulatory pressure on personal care products intensifies and consumer demand for sustainable beauty options grows, brands must deliver exceptional performance alongside verifiable sustainability attributes — such as ingredient biodegradability.

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Regulatory Alerts: L'Oréal, La Roche-Posay, Edgewell, Hawaiian Tropic, Sun Bum and Colgate Suits; Australian Microbead Recalls; and More

The cosmetics and personal care industry is facing a wave of legal battles and regulatory updates, highlighting concerns over product safety, labeling accuracy and compliance with evolving standards. Following is an overview.

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The Lowdown on Australia's Sunscreen Crisis — And How The U.S. Avoided a Similar One

This report examines the current status of the sunscreen labeling crisis in Australia, including what went wrong and ways to move forward — plus how the U.S. avoided a similar crisis. It also considers whether the industry has reached its SPF limit.

Brian Ecclefield helps us dig into the sunscreen testing report, highlighting discrepancies and what the lab appears to have gotten wrong.

[special report] What the Testing Lab Got Wrong: Brian Ecclefield on the Australian Sunscreen Labeling Crisis

Many of Australia's recalled sunscreens were validated by the same testing lab, Princeton Consumer Research (PCR). Here, Brian Ecclefield helps us dig into the testing report, highlighting discrepancies and what the lab appears to have gotten wrong.

Beautiful Woman On European Beach Holding Up Blue Bottle Of Sunscreen Adobe Stock 1459804559

EU Regulatory Update: A Reminder on Rules for Sunscreen Standards — Plus Two New Tests for SPF

The UK and EU have defined how sunscreens are made, marketed and labeled, as well as established new ISO test methods. This update highlights key developments in SPF testing, and UVA protection and compliance standards for sun care across Europe.

Woman Outside Applying Sunscreen To Shoulder Creamy Foam Concept Adobe Stock 636248390

Safety Alert: Sunscreen 'Doping' and Foam Formats Raise Red Flags

Recent regulatory attention highlights both hidden sunscreen actives in cosmetic products, and the legal gray zone of mousse-format sunscreens — prompting calls for clearer labeling and format approval.

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Proposed SAFE Sunscreen Standards Act Gives U.S. Consumers New Hope for Better Sun Protection

The legislation was introduced to streamline the FDA's review process of the effectiveness and safety of new ingredients for nonprescription sunscreens.

The company is currently facing a class action lawsuit over its Sound Body sunscreen that contains ingredients alleged to harm coral reefs — despite the products being advertised as “reef conscious.”

[interview] Big Lots Faces Lawsuit for 'Reef-conscious' Sunscreen Allegedly Harmful to Reefs

The company is currently facing a class action lawsuit over its Sound Body sunscreen that contains ingredients alleged to harm coral reefs — despite the products being advertised as “reef conscious.”

'[Sunscreen] developers will be able to innovate more efficiently while maintaining high standards of quality and safety for consumers.'

[update] How ISO's Endorsement of Two Test Methods Will Enlighten Sunscreen Development

After 10 years, sunscreen developers are nearing the finish line for more ethical, cost efficient, reliable and faster testing thanks to ISO's endorsement of two standards. The final vote was in September 2024. Here, two experts explain what this means.

The EWG approves only one in four sunscreens, which has lead to criticism for fearmongering from the PCPC.

[updated] EWG Releases 2024 Sunscreen Guidelines, PCPC Pushes Back

The EWG approves only one in four sunscreens, which has lead to criticism for fearmongering from the PCPC.

Woman Applying Sunscreen At Beach Adobe Stock 158259786

Walmart, Target Flagged for 'Deceptive' Reef-friendly Sunscreen Claims

Walmart and Target have both been hit with proposed class actions over "reef friendly" sunscreen claims due the their organic UV filters, consumer perception and fluctuating evidence over coral bleaching. What direction should formulators take?