A comparison of two LSF testing methods shows that in-vitro laboratory tests are reliable and more ethically acceptable than tests on humans.
BRUSSELS, BELGIUM, July 27, 2026 / EINPresswire.com / -- The results support a shift to sunscreen testing procedures that avoid harming test subjects by inducing sunburn through UV radiation. This will promote
innovation while ensuring that products brought to market are safe and effective.Repeatable and ethically sound:
To promote wider use of non-sunburn testing, the European Commission recently funded a campaign to test the sun protection factor (SPF) and UVA protection factor of 74 sun protection products (sunscreens and day creams) under laboratory conditions (in vitro). Market surveillance authorities from 11 EU countries selected the products from stores and online.
The results showed a high correlation between the in vitro and in vivo tests, reinforcing the reliability of the former for verifying SPF claims.
The in vitro test method used (EN ISO 23675:2024) was published in December 2024. This eliminates the need to expose human subjects to UV radiation. The method is less expensive and faster than human testing. A hybrid method, HDRS, published at the same time, uses human subjects but causes no harm. This testing campaign compared only in-vitro and conventional in-vivo methods.
In in-vitro tests, the product is applied to two types of acrylic plates—one molded, one sandblasted—to achieve a skin-like texture. The amount of product applied, the method of application by a standardized robotic finger, as well as the temperature and drying time are strictly controlled. Furthermore, in-vitro tests are not subject to limitations regarding the availability of test subjects or their skin conditions, such as skin type, moisture content, and sensitivity.
Anti-inflammatory Ingredients:
Another advantage of in-vitro SPF testing is that the results are not affected by the presence of anti-inflammatory or soothing ingredients in some products. In human SPF testing, the skin of test subjects is exposed to low doses of UV radiation to induce erythema (redness). Certain anti-inflammatory or soothing ingredients can reduce or delay this reaction, leading to an artificially increased sun protection factor.
In this in-vitro method, a spectrophotometer measures how much UV radiation penetrates the sunscreen film applied to acrylic plates. The SPF is calculated using an algorithm that combines the measurements from both plate types.
Recommendations:
Manufacturers are advised to prioritize testing methods that pose no risk to human subjects when determining the SPF and UVA protection of their products.
The limitation of the in vitro method is that sunscreen sticks and powders cannot currently be tested. Standards organizations should work towards extending the scope of non-invasive testing methods to these product types, as well as to water resistance claims.
Exposure to ultraviolet radiation, including UVB and UVA radiation, poses a health risk. Consumers are advised to use sunscreen as an additional form of protection and to stay in the shade, wear protective clothing, and avoid sun exposure during midday. They should choose a sunscreen whose SPF and UVA protection are appropriate for their skin type and the intensity of the sun's rays. Sunscreen should be applied generously and evenly before sun exposure and reapplied regularly.
Sunscreens are scientifically developed and tested, and their production requires specialized expertise. UV filters must be tested and approved before use. Therefore, sunscreens should not be made at home, as such products are not tested for their level of protection, and insufficient effectiveness poses a health risk.
EU-wide testing:
The testing took place within the framework of the Joint Actions on Compliance of Products (JACOP) 2025 in the EU and EFTA countries. JACOP helps market surveillance authorities (MSUs) harmonize their working methods, jointly test products, identify risks, and enforce corrective actions. A total of 11 product types were assessed.
“Market surveillance campaigns help protect companies from unfair competition and ensure that products sold in the single market are safe for consumers,” says Vanessa Capurso, Policy Officer at DG GROW.
“However, the ultimate responsibility for ensuring that sunscreens provide the protection stated on their labels lies with the person responsible.”
Further information is available via email at jacop2025@esn.eu
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