TGA Recalls Ultra Violette Lean Screen: SPF 50+ That Tested as Low as 4
A cult-favourite 'invisible' zinc sunscreen got pulled in Australia in 2025, proof that an elegant, viral formula is worthless if the SPF doesn't hold up in the lab.
On 22 August 2025, Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration announced that Grace & Fire (Ultra Violette) was recalling all batches of Lean Screen SPF 50+ after independent testing showed SPF ranging from 4 to 64.32. The company also cancelled the product's ARTG listing.
Regulators treat a result range this wide, from SPF 4 to over 64, as a clear protection failure; the TGA's action reflects the principle that a sunscreen's claim must be backed by reproducible testing, not marketing.
Questions we get a lot
When was Ultra Violette Lean Screen recalled in Australia?
Australia's TGA announced the recall on 22 August 2025, covering all batches of Lean Screen SPF 50+ after independent testing showed SPF results ranging from 4 to 64.32. The company also cancelled the product's ARTG listing.
What does it mean that the ARTG listing was cancelled?
The ARTG is Australia's register of therapeutic goods, including sunscreens. Cancelling the listing removes the product's regulatory authorization, reinforcing that it should no longer be sold or relied upon for protection.
What does the brand say about the recall?
Ultra Violette posted an urgent recall update for Lean Screen SPF 50+ addressing the affected batches and next steps for customers. Anyone who owns the product should follow that guidance and stop relying on it for sun protection.
r/AusSkincare: 'The TGA just recalled Lean Screen and it tested as low as SPF 4. How do I know my other sunscreens are actually tested properly?'