An Australian skincare brand, Naked Sundays, has temporarily removed its SPF50+ Collagen Glow 100% Mineral sunscreen from shelves as it awaits the outcomes of independent sun protection testing. This precautionary measure comes despite preliminary results supporting the product’s SPF50 claim.
Naked Sundays announced the decision on Tuesday, citing the need for further independent tests and guidance from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). “We’ve paused the sunscreen from sale in Australia out of precaution, while we await new, completely independent SPF results, and subsequent guidance from the TGA on their investigation into SPF testing,” the company stated on its website.
Background and Company Response
The move affects only the Collagen Glow Mineral sunscreen produced by one Australian manufacturer, with Naked Sundays assuring consumers that no other products in their range have been impacted. The company emphasized that current guidelines suggest the product poses no safety risk to consumers. “We will continue to advocate for stronger governance around testing, so Australia can continue to be trusted leaders in sunscreen,” the statement added.
Founded in 2001 by former television reporter Samantha Brett, Naked Sundays has built a reputation for innovative skincare solutions. The SPF50+ Collagen Glow Mineral Sunscreen, launched the same year, quickly became a bestseller, priced at $39.95. Brett, reflecting on her career, noted the challenges of finding a sunscreen compatible with makeup, which inspired the product’s creation.
Industry Context and Comparisons
This development follows a similar incident involving another Australian skincare brand, Ultra Violette. In June, consumer agency Choice tested a range of sunscreens and found Ultra Violette’s Lean Screen 50+ Mattifying Zinc Skinscreen to have a significantly lower SPF rating than advertised. Despite disputing Choice’s testing methodology, Ultra Violette’s subsequent independent lab tests revealed inconsistent SPF ratings, prompting an apology from the company.
“That wasn’t good enough for us, and it isn’t good enough for you,” co-founders Rebecca Jefferd and Ava Chandler-Matthews stated.
Unlike Ultra Violette, Naked Sundays’ product was not part of the Choice investigation. However, the recent scrutiny of sunscreen products highlights the importance of rigorous testing and transparency in the skincare industry.
Retailer Reaction and Future Steps
Cosmetic retailer Mecca, which stocks Naked Sundays products, has also removed the Collagen Glow Mineral sunscreen from its shelves. A Mecca spokesperson explained, “Although there is currently no requirement to officially recall the product, we believe removing it from sale is the right thing to do until the retesting is complete.” The decision was made collaboratively with Naked Sundays to ensure product quality and consumer trust.
The announcement comes as the skincare industry faces increasing pressure to ensure product claims are backed by robust scientific evidence. As Naked Sundays and Ultra Violette navigate these challenges, the focus remains on maintaining consumer confidence and adhering to regulatory standards.
Looking ahead, Naked Sundays plans to update its product listing with the TGA, aiming for the sunscreen to be available locally again in the coming days, pending the results of the independent tests. The company remains committed to advocating for stronger governance and transparency in sunscreen testing, reinforcing Australia’s position as a leader in sun protection.
