What you need to know
Living with blood cancer can mean being more sensitive to health risks. Understanding how to protect your skin from the sun is especially important. Sunscreen is a key part of sun safety, but not all sunscreens are equal. In Australia, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) regulates some sunscreens. This checks that the sunscreen provides the protection it claims.
- Many people with blood cancer are more sensitive to UV exposure. This is what causes sunburn and skin damage.
- Sensitivity can be because of cancer or its treatments.
- Protecting yourself from the sun is important.
- Follow the Cancer Council guidelines on sun safety – Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide | Cancer Council
Recent issues with sunscreen protection in Australia
- In June 2025, CHOICE, a consumer advocacy group tested 20 popular SPF 50/50+ sunscreens.
- They found that 16 out of 20 did not meet their claimed SPF levels when independently tested.
- The TGA is investigating the CHOICE findings and has recalled many sunscreen products.
What you can do
- Always look for an “AUST-L” or “AUST-R” number on sunscreen labels. This means the product is on the Australian Register for Therapeutic Goods (ARTG).
- Pick ARTG registered brands. A listing on the ARTG ensures the product has been properly assessed.
- Combine sunscreen with other sun protection. Like shade, wide-brimmed hats, protective clothing, and sunglasses.
- Use sunscreen as directed: apply enough, reapply after swimming, sweating, or toweling.
- Follow the directions on the sunscreen label.
- Because of recent issues with SPF levels, it is important to:
- Stay up to date with sunscreen recalls.
Resources
- Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide | Cancer Council
- SPF testing of Cancer Council sunscreens | Cancer Council
- The TGA acts following CHOICE sunscreen investigation
- Multiple sunscreens recall – Lower than claimed SPF levels | Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)
- Sunscreens using the same base formulation as Ultra Violette Lean Screen SPF 50+ sunscreen | Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)
