u/DemocratGreen

Hey everyone, did anyone else catch this 9News report? I know we always talk about how strict Australian SPF regulations are compared to the rest of the world, so this was a pretty wild watch.

For those who can't watch the video right now, here is a quick TL;DW of what they found:

• The segment looks into the chemical UV filters 4-MBC and Homosalate.
• Apparently, 4-MBC is unapproved in over 40 countries (including the US and China) due to endocrine (hormone) disruption concerns. Recently they banned it in EU countries as well.
• Despite this, it's still used in over 100 Aussie sunscreens, including Banana Boat Kids. YT comments pointed out that Cancer Council Kids also uses 4-MBC
• The craziest part to me: Someone filed an FOI request and got internal TGA emails. The TGA's own toxicologists admitted 4-MBC "does not appear to be safe," but the TGA is just sitting on it and hasn't officially restricted it yet.

They had an Assoc. Professor of toxicology from UQ and some local industry people on there calling for the TGA to finally align with global standards.

What are your thoughts on this?

Are you guys actively checking ingredient lists to avoid 4-MBC and Homosalate now, or are you waiting for the TGA to actually make an official ruling? Would love to hear what the ingredient nerds on this sub think about the TGA's stance here!