Efficacy Testing

Sunscreen Testing

SPF Test

The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) test measures the level of protection given by a sun product under specific laboratory conditions. Cutest utilises a single port liquid light guide xenon arc solar simulator filtered to provide a defined output similar to solar radiation. Ten to twenty human volunteers are used to estimate the product SPF. The SPF determined by an in vivo method can be used to label the pack SPF of the product.

UVA Protection

UVA protection test methods can be in vitro or in vivo techniques and provide information on the level of protection from a product against UVA exposure. Cutest can now carry out UVA measurements to the latest COLIPA and Boots Star Rating guidelines using the Labsphere UV-2000S Sunscreen Analyser.

Choice of sun protection test

The selection of the SPF and UVA tests will depend on the market(s) into which the product will be distributed. Cutest can perform the sun product efficacy tests to support regulatory needs, pack copy and advertising claims currently required for all major countries or markets.

• In vivo SPF tests for FDA (USA) and the International Sun Protection factor (SPF) test agreed by COLIPA
• In vitro SPF test for initial screening of products
• In vitro UVA tests including the Boots Star rating system and COLIPA UVAPF

Contact Cutest to discuss your individual requirements for sun product testing and labelling.