The Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS) has ordered this Thursday the cessation of marketing and withdrawal from the market of several batches of six sunscreens. Apparently, after a study carried out by the OCU, the product labeling was incorrect and did not match the advertised protection factor.
According to the AEMPS, the companies have already been informed of the measures adopted and the non-compliance detected. However, the organization has also stated that there have been no reported incidents of sunburn related to any of these products.
Among the lots that have been recalled are some of Rituals Invisible Sun Protection Face Cream SPS 50, Vichy Capital Soleil Creme Onctueuse Protectice SPF 50, and Biotherm Waterlover Face Sunscreen SPF 50. In the case of these products, their labeling promises “very high” protection. However, after the trials provided by the OCU, it has been observed that their protection is only “high.”
On the other hand, it has also suspended the sale and distribution of lots of Nivea Sun Sensitive Face Protection SPF 50, Lancaster Sun Sensitive Oil-Free Milky Fluid SPF 50 and Piz Buin Hydro Infusion Sun Gel Cream Face SPF 50. These three sunscreens offer a “high” protection. However, although the numerical values obtained are still high, they do not fit with what appears on the labeling.
Finally, the ultraviolet protection factor of the Isdin Fusion Water Magic SPF 50 product could also be wrong. However, the results obtained by the OCU have not been conclusive. Consequently, the AEMPS has not taken measures at this time.
In the European Union, sunscreens are considered cosmetic products. Therefore, they are not subject to a prior authorization procedure by the authorities before being placed on the market.
However, they must comply with a series of guarantees established in the legislation. Therefore, the company that appears on the labeling, and therefore is responsible for the product, is the one who must guarantee that the article is safe, effective and meets the requirements of the regulations.