What is ISO 24444?

ISO 24444 is officially titled:

“Cosmetics — Sun protection test methods — In vivo determination of the sun protection factor (SPF)”

This standard provides a validated in vivo (on human volunteers) test method to determine the sun protection factor (SPF) of sunscreen and sun care products.

Key elements of ISO 24444 include:

  1. Volunteer selection and ethical requirements
  2. Controlled UV radiation exposure
  3. Application method and dose of sunscreen
  4. Measurement of erythema (skin reddening) as an indicator of UV damage
  5. Data evaluation and statistical accuracy

It is used by cosmetic laboratories, sunscreen brands, regulatory authorities, and third-party certifiers to verify SPF claims made on product packaging and marketing materials.

Why is ISO 24444 important?

In the global skincare market, SPF is a critical differentiator—but misleading or unverified SPF claims can result in:

  1. Health risks to consumers
  2. Legal consequences for brands
  3. Product recalls and reputational damage

ISO 24444 provides a standardized and internationally accepted methodology to ensure that SPF labeling is:

  1. Scientifically valid
  2. Reproducible
  3. Ethical and safe for volunteers
  4. Compliant with regulations in the EU, US, Asia, and other key markets


What are the benefits of ISO 24444?

Benefits of the Product

Implementing ISO 24444 as part of your quality and product validation process offers several benefits:

  1. Scientific SPF Validation

          Accurately determines SPF level under controlled laboratory conditions.

  1. Ensures Regulatory Compliance

          Accepted by global authorities and harmonized with international guidelines (EU Cosmetic Regulation, FDA, etc.).

  1. Protects Consumer Health

          Ensures products provide the claimed level of UV protection, minimizing sunburn and long-term skin damage.

  1. Supports Ethical Human Testing

          Follows strict volunteer safety protocols and consent procedures.

  1. Enables Transparent Marketing

          Back up product claims with reliable and standardized test results.


What kind of businesses can benefit from ISO 24444?

By using ISO 24444, your business can gain several strategic advantages:

  1. Comply with Global Regulatory Standards

          Required or recognized in most markets for sunscreen and UV-protective cosmetics.

  1. Enhance Brand Credibility and Safety

          Demonstrate your commitment to consumer protection and product performance.

  1. Facilitate Product Launch and Export

          Streamline certification and registration processes for international markets.

  1. Reduce Legal and Reputational Risks

          Prevent SPF mislabeling and avoid penalties or lawsuits due to misleading claims.

  1. Build Consumer Trust

          Show that your SPF values are not just numbers—they’re tested, verified, and reliable.

  1. Differentiate in a Competitive Market

          Offer proven, high-performance sun care products with global recognition.


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