Factor 50 facial sunscreens have been tested by the Consumer Defense Association.
How can you be sure that a sunscreen provides the protection advertised on the packaging? The question arises as the sunny days approach. UFC Que Choisir tested thirteen facial sunscreens with SPF 50 and 50 + indices, the recommended level of protection to properly protect against the harmful effects of the sun which can cause skin cancer.
The laboratory test delivered worrying results: a third of these products do not provide the level of protection displayed! A deception for the consumer who believes he is well protected when in reality the index is lower. “Five creams do not meet the expected levels of sun protection. Four of them only achieve protection corresponding to an index 30” reveals the study. Among the creams in question: products from reputable brands such as Vichy, Lancaster And Biotherm whose level of protection is insufficient for both UVB and UVA, details the UFC which also denounces “stratospheric prices”. Also in the viewfinder, the Isdin brand which had already been singled out in 2019 and whose creams were banned in Spain and Belgium.
The study also analyzed the impact of the components. Good news, “the vast majority of products tested are free of compounds undesirable for human health”but bad news “a large proportion, however (10 out of 13) receive a poor environmental rating due to the presence of components having harmful effects on aquatic organisms”. And to again single out Vichy and Lancaster for “ocean friendly” mentions but without real requirements supposed to reassure the consumer.
The association announced this Tuesday, April 23, that it had contacted the Fraud Repression Department (DGCCRF) so that they sanction the brands concerned and carry out more checks. It also requires manufacturers to make their products conform to the indices displayed or, failing that, to withdraw their products.
