PD14 Characteristics and claims of top-selling sunscreens in the UK

Abstract

Sunscreen production, demand and use are increasing. Marketing claims often refer to sun protection factor (SPF), spectrum coverage and allergenicity, but there may be a mismatch between claims and ingredient composition. We aimed to evaluate the characteristics of top-selling sunscreens and concordance between allergenicity claims and ingredient profiles of sunscreens sold in the UK. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted of the 10 top-selling sunscreens from 9 retail platforms where this information was available, including physical and online retailers. Products listed as facial moisturizers with SPF were excluded. Allergens and photoallergens were defined according to national and local general series, the facial series and the European photopatch series. After excluding duplicates, 54 sunscreens were identified: 33 organic filter based, 15 mixed and 6 mineral sunscreens. Of these, 59% were targeted for general use, 39% for facial use and 2% for scalp application. The cost ranged from £0.98 to £190 per 100 mL. The most commonly used sunscreen filters were butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane, ethylhexyl salicylate and bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine, present in 39, 37 and 36 sunscreens, respectively. SPF ranged from 15 to 50+, with most (76%) being labelled at least SPF 50. A recognized ultraviolet (UV)A rating (PA, star or UVA circle) was lacking in 11 sunscreens, despite UVA protection claims in 5 of these. Eight sunscreens claimed suitability for sensitive or hypoallergenic skin, but none were free from allergens. Four sunscreens claimed to be fragrance free: one of these included fragrance ingredients; 54% overall included fragrance ingredients. Five sunscreens claimed protection against high-energy visible light and/or infrared radiation; three of these contained iron oxides. The most commonly used additional potentially photoprotective ingredients were tocopherol acetate, alpha tocopherol, nicotinamide and Camellia sinensis extract. Top-selling sunscreens in the UK contain a range of potentially sensitizing ingredients. Physicians should be aware of possible discrepancies between sunscreen marketing and formulation.