BIS Introduces IS 19685:2026 for Sunscreen Cosmetic Products
With increasing awareness around UV protection and skin health, BIS has introduced IS 19685:2026, a comprehensive standard for sunscreen cosmetic products aimed at ensuring product safety, performance, and reliable consumer protection. Sunscreen products are widely used to help prevent sunburn, premature skin ageing, and risks associated with harmful UV exposure. The
With increasing awareness around UV protection and skin health, BIS has introduced IS 19685:2026, a comprehensive standard for sunscreen cosmetic products aimed at ensuring product safety, performance, and reliable consumer protection.
Sunscreen products are widely used to help prevent sunburn, premature skin ageing, and risks associated with harmful UV exposure. The new standard establishes clear requirements for efficacy, safety, testing, and labelling of sunscreen products marketed in India.
What is IS 19685:2026?
The standard applies to leave-on sunscreen preparations such as:
- Creams
- Lotions
- Gels
These products are intended to absorb, reflect, or scatter UV radiation between 290 nm and 400 nm.
Key Protection Categories
- UVB Protection (SPF): Protection against sunburn-causing radiation
- UVA Protection (PA/UVA PF): Protection against deeper skin damage and aging
- Broad Spectrum Protection: Combined UVA & UVB coverage
- Water Resistance: Maintains SPF effectiveness after water exposure
Important Compliance Requirements
- Minimum SPF requirement: SPF 6
- Broad-spectrum criteria with defined UVA protection ratio
- Ingredients must comply with IS 4707 series
- Novel ingredients require safety evaluation under IS 4011
- Testing aligned with international ISO standards
Labeling Requirements
The standard mandates clear and accurate labeling to avoid misleading claims. Terms such as “sunblock” or “total protection” are not permitted.
Products must clearly declare:
- SPF category
- PA rating
- Water resistance claims
Why It Matters
IS 19685:2026 strengthens consumer confidence by promoting:
- Safer sunscreen formulations
- Reliable UV protection claims
- Standardised testing & labelling practices
- Better regulatory alignment with global standards
How Vincular Can Help
Vincular can support with:
- Regulatory guidance
- BIS standard interpretation
- Product compliance review
- Labeling assessment
- Testing & certification coordination
Source
Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) – IS 19685:2026
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