UVA Protection & Sunscreen Claims in the EU: What “Balanced” Protection Means

Understanding UVA protection and how it connects to “balanced” sunscreen claims is critical for cosmetic brands sourcing compliant sun care products in the EU. Regulatory authorities require that sunscreens offer not only strong UVB protection (the SPF number) but also demonstrable protection against UVA rays that contribute to long-term skin damage. Brands must be able to verify, through testing and labeling, that their formulas genuinely provide this balance.

What “Balanced” UVA/UVB Protection Means

In the EU, “balanced protection” is a regulatory expectation, not a marketing term. It refers to the ratio between UVA and UVB protection in a sunscreen product. To bear the EU’s UVA logo (the circular ‘UVA’ in a circle symbol), a sunscreen must achieve:

• UVA Protection Factor (UVA-PF) ≥ 1/3 of the labeled SPF under the ISO 24443 in vitro method.
• Consistent formulation performance in both in-vitro and in-vivo tests.
• Test data that aligns with official EU sunscreen guidelines.

Required Testing Standards

Buyers sourcing for the EU market must ensure that all test reports come from ISO-accredited facilities. The two primary tests are:

• ISO 24443: In-vitro determination of UVA protection.
• ISO 24444: In-vivo determination of SPF (UVB protection).

The combination of these two test results defines whether a sunscreen can claim “broad spectrum” and display the UVA logo in the EU.

Key Sourcing Implications

• Always request final formula test data—prototype test data is insufficient for EU claims.
• Ensure batch-specific Certificates of Analysis (COA) include reference to both SPF and UVA-PF validation.
• In formulations using newer filters, confirm they are listed in the EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex VI.

UVA/UVB Ratio Reference Table

Labeling and Marketing Considerations

• Claims such as “broad spectrum” or “UVA/UVB balanced” must be supported by valid test results.
• Use consistent terminology across all territories where the product is sold.
• Avoid exaggerations like “full UV protection” or “total sun block,” which are prohibited under EU guidance.
• Include storage conditions and application instructions to preserve tested protection levels.

Actions for Buyers and Brand Owners

1. Request in-vitro and in-vivo test reports from certified laboratories.
2. Verify that UVA-PF ≥ 1/3 SPF in both reports to qualify for the “UVA in a circle” symbol.
3. Confirm all UV filters comply with EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex VI limits.
4. Ensure stability and packaging compatibility tests confirm UV filter stability across shelf life.

Procurement Checklist

• ☑ ISO 24443 test report (UVA-PF)
• ☑ ISO 24444 test report (SPF)
• ☑ Full ingredient listing with INCI names
• ☑ COA referencing tested SPF and UVA-PF values
• ☑ Label proof with regulatory symbol placement
• ☑ Packaging compatibility verification (no UV filter interaction)

FAQ

1. What happens if a sunscreen doesn’t meet the 1/3 UVA requirement?

It cannot display the EU UVA logo and may not claim balanced or broad-spectrum protection. The product label must be adjusted accordingly before distribution.

2. Can a supplier’s prototype test data be used for EU claims?

No. Only final formula test results are acceptable for compliance labeling and claim support in the EU.

3. Do mineral-only sunscreens also need UVA testing?

Yes. Even mineral filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide must undergo verification under ISO 24443 to substantiate UVA protection claims.

4. Are there different standards for the UK after Brexit?

Currently, the UK Cosmetics Regulation mirrors EU requirements, but manufacturers should monitor updates from the UK Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS).

5. What documentation should a buyer archive?

Keep all safety assessments, PIF (Product Information File), SPF and UVA test reports, ingredient declarations, packaging compatibility data, and labeling proofs for regulatory readiness.

Request a Quote for EU-compliant sunscreen development and testing support with LAEYO Labs.

Hi, I'm Alex Zong, hope you like this blog post.

With more than 20 years of experience in OEM/ODM/Private Label Cosmetics, I'd love to share valuable knowledge related to cosmetics & skincare products from a top-tier Chinese supplier's perspective.