Sunscreen is a key product in protecting human skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, including sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. In the European Union (EU), these products are regulated as cosmetics with a market value of USD 2.53 billion in 2024, which is expected to grow by 7.3% annually through 2030[1], reflecting both increasing consumer awareness and rising demand for effective and reliable sun protection.
Over the past decades, scientific advances, public health guidance, and regulatory revision have continuously shaped the requirements for UV-filters, their concentrations, and labelling practices. This article provides an overview of the current EU regulatory framework for sunscreens, recent developments affecting UV-filters, standardisation of testing methods, and practical considerations for formulators and claims strategies.
