ISO 24442 is officially titled:
“Cosmetics — Sun protection test methods — In vivo determination of the sun protection factor UVA (SPF UVA)”
This standard defines the in vivo (human subject-based) test method to determine the UVA protection factor (UVA-PF) of sunscreen and sun care products. Unlike ISO 24444, which focuses on UVB rays and SPF, ISO 24442 targets the longer UVA rays that penetrate deeper into the skin.
Key elements include:
UVA rays account for about 95% of UV radiation reaching the Earth’s surface. Unlike UVB, which causes sunburn, UVA contributes to deeper skin aging, DNA damage, and melanoma. Without proper testing, products may under-deliver on UVA protection despite high SPF values.
ISO 24442 ensures manufacturers can:
By adopting ISO 24442, your sun care or skincare brand can:
Determine and validate UVA-PF using ethical, reproducible in vivo testing.
Recognized in the EU, Japan, and many other regulatory markets for UVA labeling.
Ensure that both UVB and UVA protection are accurately communicated.
Gain insight into UVA absorption and efficacy for formulation improvements.
Deliver real, tested protection that meets modern consumer expectations.
Implementing ISO 24442 offers tangible commercial and regulatory advantages:
Back up your "UVA protection" or "broad-spectrum" claims with ISO-standard test results.
Required or recommended for UVA claims in the EU, Japan, Australia, and other regions.
Reduce risk of false advertising, fines, or product recalls due to unsubstantiated claims.
Streamline product registration and approvals across international territories.
Provide clear, validated protection against UVA-induced aging and skin damage.
Complements ISO 24444 (UVB/SPF testing), ISO 24443 (in vitro UVA testing), and ISO 16128 (natural ingredients).
© Growth Management Corporation. All rights reserved.
Growth Management Corporation is a management consulting firm that provides consulting, training, implementation, and certification services and solutions to organizations of all sizes, and all domains.
