Study of poor-quality sunscreen products

The counterfeiting of healthcare products and the placing on the market of substandard products is a global scourge affecting medicines, medical devices and cosmetics, particularly perfumes. To date, perfumes have been the most well-known counterfeit cosmetics. However, no work has been done on substandard cosmetics. The aim of this work is to highlight the lack of photoprotective efficacy of poor-quality sunscreens. Seven creams purchased online were tested. Firstly, the SPF and FP-UVA efficacy indices were determined using an in vitro method. Secondly, the UV filter content was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. The creams studied do not contain sunscreen and therefore pose a significant risk to users when exposed to the sun. Counterfeit and substandard sunscreens pose a threat to their users.