I'm not an expert in sunscreens nor have I performed testing of them for their effectiveness, which typically includes the in vivo determination of SPF.
CHOICE recently release of the results of SPF testing it commissioned an independent laboratory to undertake on blind samples of 20 products: -
https://www.choice.com.au/about-us/media/media-releases/2025/june/16-of-20-sunscreens-didnt-meet-spf-claims-in-choice-test
https://www.choice.com.au/about-us/media/media-releases/2025/june/choice-releases-sunscreen-lab-test-details
Although I'm not going to question the veracity of the laboratory's results, I have taken exception to CHOICE stating Eurofins Dermatest is accredited.
Eurofins Dermatest Pty Ltd holds ISO 9001:2015 certification from BSI that covers evaluating the safety and efficacy of topically applied products.
However, as a former NATA Lead Assessor, this does not constitute accreditation of the laboratory's testing in accordance with ISO 24444:2019.
Indeed, the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) has confirmed none of its members have in vivo determination of SPF within its scope.
CHOICE has even responded to my posing a question on their LinkedIn post with the following comment: -
The assertion "The Australian lab is NATA accredited, as are CHOICE labs." is a furphy, as neither has been assessed for competency to perform ISO 24444:2019.
Furthermore, as evident from the reports that CHOICE has released, Eurofins Dermatest did not issue NATA endorsed reports for its SPF determinations.
Why is this important? It is appropriate for CHOICE to know that, whilst it might by TGA approved, the laboratory it commissioned isn't accredited for SPF testing.
Is the laboratory TGA approved? I'm yet to get a clear answer on that, so stay tuned...