A new Australian sunscreen study is making headlines.

A newly published Australian study analysed urine samples representing around 18,700 Australians and found that one sunscreen ingredient—homosalate—was detected at higher levels in children than adults. Researchers reported that many children's pooled samples exceeded established biomonitoring guidance values for homosalate, prompting renewed calls for tighter regulation.

But before you throw away your sunscreen, there's an important distinction. The study is about one ingredient, not sunscreen itself. That's exactly why we've always chosen a different approach.

What did the study actually find?

 Researchers looked at three common UV filters:

• Homosalate

• Octisalate

• Octocrylene

The standout finding was homosalate.

• 80% of children's pooled urine samples exceeded one health-based guidance value.

• 53% exceeded a higher guidance value that indicates exposure may warrant reduction.

• Children consistently showed much higher exposure than adults.

• acts as an endocrine (hormone) disruptor at certain exposure levels

• accumulates in the body after repeated use

• contributes to overall chemical exposure, especially in children

Importantly, the researchers were clear about two things:

• Sunscreen remains essential for protecting against Australia's harsh UV.

• Their findings support reducing exposure to homosalate specifically, not abandoning sun protection altogether.

What does the TGA say?

 Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration continues to recommend daily sunscreen use.

At the same time, the TGA has already been reviewing homosalate and previously proposed stricter limits, similar to changes already adopted in Europe.

Why we chose zinc from day one

At Avocado Zinc, we built our formulas around non-nano zinc oxide — a mineral UV filter that works by sitting on the skin's surface and reflecting or scattering UV rays.

Our philosophy has always been simple:

• Broad-spectrum SPF50 protection

• 100% natural ingredients

• No chemical UV filters

• Made in Australia

• TGA-listed sunscreen

We created our sunscreen because founder Ellen wanted something she'd feel confident wearing every single day, and sharing with her family.

The bigger picture

 This study doesn't mean sunscreen is the problem. It reinforces something we've believed from the beginning: the ingredients matter.

Australians need effective UV protection, but they also deserve formulas they feel good about applying every day. If you've been looking for a mineral alternative that doesn't leave a white cast, that's exactly what we've spent years perfecting.

Ready to make the switch?

Whether you're choosing sunscreen for yourself or your family, our mineral SPF range was designed for everyday Australian sun.