AS/NZS 2604:2012

Sets out procedures for determining the performance of sunscreen products in terms of their mean protection factors. It includes test methods for both broad spectrum and water resistant sunscreen products and specifies appropriate detailed labelling requirements to be applied in conjunction with relevant legislation.

This Standard sets out procedures for determining the performance of sunscreen products in terms of their mean protection factors. It includes test methods for both broad spectrum and water resistant sunscreen products. This Standard also specifies appropriate detailed labelling requirements to be applied in conjunction with relevant legislation.This Standard applies to sunscreen products represented as being suitable for topical use to protect human skin from the adverse effects of solar ultraviolet (UV) rays. It applies to both primary and secondary sunscreen products as defined.As this Standard addresses protection against solar radiation incident upon the surface of the Earth, protection against UVC does not fall within its scope, as it is filtered out by the earth’s atmosphere.Reference to ISO 24444 is required for the determination of the sun protection factor (SPF). Reference to ISO 24443 is required for the determination of broad spectrum performance.NOTE: A sample questionnaire for test subjects is given in Appendix E.2 OBJECTIVEThis Standard is intended to produce a means of testing and labelling sunscreens that will assist consumers to select a product which best suits their need for skin protection from the adverse effects of UV radiation.It is not the intention of this Standard to inhibit innovation, however the Committee recognizes that there will often be a delay between the emergence of a new, valid claim, and the development of an agreed test method. Therefore, any claim of sunscreen efficacy not covered by the provisions of this Standard should be justified to the relevant regulatory authority.

Originated in Australia as AS 2604-1983.
Originated in New Zealand as AS/NZS 2604:1993.
Previous edition 1998.
Sixth edition 2012.