Demonstrate the performance of your sun protection product
With more than 20 years of experience in sun protection testing, Normec is recognised as one of the pioneers in the field. Our scientific expertise has contributed not only to the evaluation of sunscreen products but also to the development of the next generation of SPF testing methodologies used across the global cosmetics industry.
Consumers expect sun protection products that are not only pleasant to use but also provide proven protection against harmful UV radiation. Reliable test results are therefore essential for substantiating SPF and UVA claims and meeting the expectations of consumers, retailers and regulatory authorities.
Normec supports cosmetic brands and manufacturers with scientifically validated testing. Our studies provide valuable insight into your product's performance and generate reliable data to support product claims.
SPF testing in accordance with internationally recognised standards
The internationally recognised ISO 24444 method for determining the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is considered the industry standard within the cosmetics sector. It delivers reliable results and is widely used worldwide to evaluate the effectiveness of sun protection products.
SPF testing determines the level of protection a product provides against UVB radiation and verifies whether the claimed SPF can be scientifically substantiated.
While ISO 24444 has been the established standard for SPF determination for many years, the field of sun protection testing continues to evolve. Today, manufacturers can also benefit from newer internationally recognized standards, including ISO 23698 (HDRS) and ISO 23675 (DPM).
Normec Schrader Institute is among the few laboratories worldwide offering all three SPF testing standards under one roof:
- ISO 24444 – Traditional in vivo SPF testing
- ISO 23698 – Hybrid Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy (HDRS)
- ISO 23675 – Double Plate Method (DPM)
This allows brands to select the most suitable testing approach for their products, markets and regulatory requirements while working with a single trusted scientific partner.
Scientific support for SPF and UVA claims
Testing sun protection products requires specialist expertise in skin physiology, UV radiation and product performance. Normec provides manufacturers with reliable scientific data that supports product development, claim substantiation and successful market launch.
With our support, you can:
- Substantiate SPF and UVA claims with reliable test results
- Increase consumer confidence in your products
- Obtain scientifically validated research data
- Benefit from specialist expertise in sun protection testing
- Stay prepared for future developments in the market and regulatory landscape
- Access all major internationally recognized SPF testing methods (ISO 24444, ISO 23698 and ISO 23675) through a single laboratory partner
Driving innovation in sun protection testing
Normec has been at the forefront of SPF innovation and has actively contributed to the development and validation of HDRS technology. Through our participation in international initiatives such as the Alt-SPF Project, we help shape the future of sunscreen testing by evaluating scientifically robust alternatives that reduce participant burden while maintaining high levels of accuracy and reproducibility.
As a laboratory involved in the scientific advancement of HDRS, we offer customers direct access to one of the most innovative SPF testing methodologies available today.
Preparing for the future of sun protection
The market for sun protection products continues to evolve. New technologies, changing consumer expectations and innovative testing methodologies require a partner that stays at the forefront of scientific developments.
Through our involvement in international research programmes and scientific innovation, Normec helps manufacturers meet today's requirements while preparing for the future of sun protection testing and claim substantiation.
Comprehensive Sun Protection Testing Services
In addition to SPF testing, Normec also supports:
- UVA-PF Testing
- UVA-PF in vivo
- ISO 24442:2022
- UVA-PF in vitro
- ISO 24443:2021/2022
- Boots Star Rating System (2011 Revision)
- FDA (Final Rule 2011 / OTC Monograph MO20:2021)
- AS/NZS 2604:2021
- Water Resistance Testing
- ISO 16217:2020
- ISO 18861:2020
- FDA (Final Rule 2011 / OTC Monograph MO20:2021)
- AS/NZS 2604:2021 water resistance protocol
- Sweat Resistance Testing (Sauna)
- Sand Resistance Testing
- Immediate Protection
- Kinetic Studies
All from one trusted scientific partner.
Would you like to know more about SPF and UVA testing?
Frequently Asked Questions
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An SPF test determines the level of protection a sun protection product provides against UVB radiation.
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SPF testing objectively demonstrates product performance and provides scientific evidence to support product claims.
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UVA protection indicates how effectively a product protects the skin against UVA radiation, which contributes to skin ageing.
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ISO 24444 is the internationally recognised standard for determining the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of sunscreen products.
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HDRS (Hybrid Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy) is an innovative, non-invasive method for measuring SPF and UVA protection.
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The Alt-SPF Project is an international research programme that evaluates alternative methods for sun protection testing.
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Innovative methods can improve efficiency, reduce the burden on study participants and contribute to continued innovation within the cosmetics industry.