Hi, this is Yeannie! 🤗 This week, I handled an overseas buyer inquiry that gave me a small scare. A brand only realized they needed SPF certification after their formula development was already finished. We didn’t have to rebuild the formula from scratch, but it made me want to share this with you today.
SPF Certification Doesn’t Happen Automatically
Here’s something many buyers don’t realize: SPF and PA certification isn’t a default step in every project. If your target market requires SPF claims, tell us before development starts. That’s the only way we can build certification requirements into your formula from day one. If this comes up after development, your formula may not be ready for certification — or it may need rework.
Yeannie’s buyer tip: That’s why we always confirm SPF/PA certification needs during the initial project brief. One question at the start can save weeks later, or cost them.
The Good News: You Now Have More Options
Until now, SPF and PA certification in Korea required in vivo testing, measuring sun protection directly on human skin. Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) has proposed amending the Regulation on Review of Functional Cosmetics to also accept internationally recognized in vitro test data. This method measures UV transmission on a PMMA plate with lab instruments, following ISO 23675 for SPF and ISO 24443 for UVA-PF. If SPF readiness is part of your formulation process, we build these requirements in from the start. Reports suggest this method reduces both time and cost compared to in vivo testing.
The proposal was published for public comment on August 19, with the comment period closing September 18. MFDS hasn’t announced final confirmation yet, but the amendment is expected to move forward soon.
Yeannie’s buyer tip: We already have experience coordinating in vitro testing for clients. Once this is finalized, we’ll help you decide which method fits your target market and timeline best.
Requirements Still Vary by Country
This change is specific to Korea. The US FDA still requires in vivo testing for SPF claims. Japan doesn’t allow in vitro methods at all. The EU allows either in vivo or in vitro testing (ISO 24443) for UVA-PF specifically.
| Country | SPF | UVA-PF |
|---|---|---|
| Korea (proposed) | In vivo or in vitro (ISO 23675) | In vivo or in vitro (ISO 24443) |
| US (FDA) | In vivo only | Not required |
| EU | In vivo (ISO 24444) | In vivo or in vitro (ISO 24443) |
| Japan | In vivo only | In vivo only |
Yeannie’s buyer tip: Since accepted testing methods differ by export market, we check this upfront and map out exactly what certification you’ll need.
Bottom Line: Timing Decides Everything
If your project needs SPF certification, when you tell your manufacturer matters more than which testing method Korea eventually approves. Even the best regulation change won’t help if we don’t know in time. 👩💻🪄
Have a sunscreen project that might need SPF certification? Check with us before your formula is finalized. → Contact us