Cosmetics - Sun protection test methods - Review and evaluation of methods to assess the photoprotection of sun protection products (ISO/TR 26369:2009)

This technical report establishes a comprehensive framework for evaluating the efficacy of cosmetic products against solar radiation. It focuses on determining the protection levels provided by sunscreens and offers a detailed review of assessment methodologies used globally. The document serves as a guide for understanding the principles behind testing procedures that measure how effectively a product shields the skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. It outlines various experimental approaches and discusses the theoretical basis for interpreting results obtained from in vivo and in vitro studies. By consolidating current scientific knowledge, it provides insight into the factors influencing sun protection performance and the standardization of evaluation protocols. The text addresses the importance of consistent testing conditions and data analysis techniques to ensure reliability across different laboratories. It acts as a reference for manufacturers, regulatory bodies, and researchers involved in product development and safety assessment within the cosmetics industry, facilitating harmonized approaches to sun protection testing without prescribing specific mandatory requirements for individual manufacturers.