Sunscreens

Sunscreens we regulate

Sunscreens regulated by the TGA and approved for supply in Australia can be found by searching the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG).

Primary sunscreens

Products that are used primarily to protect the skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

Some secondary sunscreens

Products that contain sun screening agents but:

• have a primary purpose other than sun protection. For example, moisturising skin care products with a SPF of over 15.
• are considered to be therapeutic goods. For example, they are not deliberately 'excluded' from being regulated as a therapeutic good by legislation. These excluded products are outlined in the Therapeutic Goods (Excluded Goods) Determination 2018.

Reporting sunscreen issues

You are encouraged to report a problem or side effect with a sunscreen to the TGA. 

Reports contribute to our ongoing monitoring of sunscreens.

How we monitor sunscreens on the market

We actively monitor therapeutic sunscreens in the market through both laboratory testing and compliance reviews to ensure they comply with our safety, quality and efficacy requirements.

If we identify a potential safety concern, we investigate it and take action if needed.

This may include:

• publishing safety alerts
• recalling products that do not meet Australian standards.

The results of these investigations are published on our website as alerts.