If you’ve felt confused or concerned about sunscreen lately, you’re not alone. In recent years, several popular sunscreens have been recalled or flagged for failing to meet their SPF claims, despite being sold as SPF 50. This has left many Australians unsure about which products can genuinely be trusted.

Chemical vs Mineral Sunscreens

Chemical Sunscreens

Chemical sunscreens use ingredients such as oxybenzone, octocrylene and avobenzone. These ingredients work by absorbing UV radiation and converting it into heat. Some chemical UV filters have been shown to be absorbed through the skin and detected in the bloodstream, urine and breast milk. There are also concerns around potential hormone disruption in some individuals.

For this reason, many people with sensitive skin and families now prefer to avoid chemical sunscreens.

Mineral Sunscreens

Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide to physically block UV rays by sitting on top of the skin and reflecting them away. Soodox uses non-nano zinc oxide, meaning the particles are too large to penetrate the skin. This makes it a gentler option for sensitive skin and suitable for ages 7 and up.

Why Sunscreen Is Difficult to Formulate

In Australia, sunscreen is classified as a therapeutic good, not a cosmetic. To claim SPF 50, a sunscreen must provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB radiation. The formulation must undergo independent SPF testing on human volunteers. It must also pass stability testing under extreme heat and cold. If any part of this process is compromised, the sunscreen may not perform as stated on the label.

Why So Many Sunscreens Have Been Recalled

One reason for sunscreen recalls is variation in SPF test results between different laboratories. Incorrect or inconsistent testing standards can lead to inflated SPF claims. Manufacturing issues are another major factor. Zinc oxide is highly sensitive and must be evenly dispersed during production.If dispersion is poor, the sunscreen may fail to reach its claimed SPF. In simple terms, some products look compliant but fail in real-world conditions.

What makes Soodox different

Soodox Organic Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 was developed with accuracy, safety and transparency as priorities. It uses 100 percent mineral, non-nano zinc oxide. It is independently tested to meet true SPF 50 standards. It provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. It is water resistant and suitable for active outdoor use. Strict manufacturing controls ensure consistent performance in every batch.

Understanding UVA and UVB Protection

UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin. They are responsible for premature ageing, wrinkles and long-term skin damage. UVB rays affect the surface of the skin. They are the primary cause of sunburn and increased skin cancer risk. Effective sun protection requires protection against both. Soodox provides broad-spectrum coverage for immediate and long-term skin protection.

Final Thoughts

There is no such thing as a perfect sunscreen. However, there is a clear difference between marketing claims and properly tested protection. Soodox Organic Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 is designed for people who want reliable sun protection. It offers a mineral-based alternative to chemical filters. It provides confidence that the product performs as claimed.

About the Author

This article was written by Shida Kebriti, a qualified pharmacist with extensive experience in sunscreen formulation and development.

She has worked on sunscreen products for leading Australian brands, including Mecca, Endota and Rationale.