Sunscreen SPF Lies: What's Really on Your Skin?

An investigation has uncovered significant discrepancies in sunscreen SPF ratings, suggesting that the numbers printed on bottles may not accurately represent the protection consumers receive. When a leading SPF 50 sunscreen was tested across five accredited laboratories, the results varied dramatically, with reported SPFs ranging from 15 to 60. This variability casts doubt on the reliability of SPF numbers as a true measure of sun protection.

The current Health Canada and FDA-approved testing method involves human volunteers and measuring skin redness after UV exposure. Experts note that this process is susceptible to numerous factors, including how individuals' skin absorbs sunscreen and the technician's interpretation of redness. This method has been criticized as archaic due to its reliance on inducing burns, which are inherently variable.

Further concerns stem from past instances of fraud within the sunscreen industry. Notably, a New York-based lab defrauded clients of over $46 million US by falsifying test results and testing on fewer participants than contracted. While some sunscreens sold in Canada may have relied on data from this now-defunct lab, Health Canada has not publicly identified these products or mandated retesting.

Experts emphasize that while sunscreen is important, it should be part of a broader sun protection strategy including shade and protective clothing. Consumers are advised not to solely rely on the SPF number, as typical application amounts are far less than those used in lab tests, thus reducing actual protection. The suggestion to label products with 'high,' 'medium,' or 'low' protection instead of specific SPF numbers has been proposed to avoid misleading consumers.