Solar Simulators for Sunscreen Testing

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The Solar Light Company’s solar simulators are the industry standard for in vivo and pre-irradiation in vitro SPF testing and are relied upon by over 95% of the world’s SPF testing laboratories.

Solar Simulators for In Vivo Sunscreen Testing

Solar Light solar simulator models are fully compliant with the latest FDA, JCIA and ISO recommendations for in vivo SPF testing of sunscreens. Everything required for instant testing right out of the box is included direct from Pro-Lite: solar simulator; power supply; automatic dose controller; NIST-traceable SUV and UVA sensors; safety glasses; and all related accessories.

Solar Simulators for In Vitro PMMA Plate Pre-Irradiation Testing

Solar Light’s solar simulators are specifically designed for the pre-irradiation photostability step during in vitro broad spectrum sunscreen testing, and are fully compliant with the latest FDA and ISO requirements. Installation qualification (IQ) and operation qualification (OQ) documentation, as well as an ISO 24443 spectral validation certification, are optionally available. Everything required for instant testing is provided: solar simulator; power supply; automatic dose controller / radiometer; NIST-traceable PMA-Series erythema and UVA sensors; molded or sandblasted PMMA plates; and all related accessories.

SPREADMASTER Robot – Automated Sunscreen Spreading

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THERMASTER Chamber

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The THERMASTER is specifically engineered to control and ensure substrate surface temperature during in vitro solar testing, adhering to various standards. It is fully compatible with PMMA substrates molded HD6 and sandblasted SB6.

The metal support, with the substrate on top, maintains temperature by inertia during the weighing and application stages, which take less than 2 minutes.

HD6 & SB6 PMMA Plates for In Vitro Sunscreen Testing

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Pro-Lite stocks the Weneos HelioPlate HD6 molded and SB6 sandblasted PMMA plates used as substrates for the in vitro UV transmittance testing of sunscreen formulations. These plates are certified in compliance with all relevant international standards and guidelines.

The in vitro testing of sunscreens requires that you measure the UV transmittance of a thin layer of sunscreen product. Accepted best practice is to apply a defined amount of sample onto a UV transparent plate (the substrate) that has a roughness similar to that of human skin. One first measures the transmittance of the substrate without sample applied, then repeat the measurement with the formulation spread onto the slide. The ratio of the two transmittance measurements is used in the computation of the in vitro sun protection factor (SPF), UVAPF, Critical Wavelength and for photostability testing.

Sunscreen Reference Standards

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Sunscreen reference standards from Weneos (ex HelioScreen) are used to validate the testing procedure.

Each batch has passed stability test for at least one year and includes a Certificate of Analysis for physical-chemical and UV filters content.

Articles & Papers

A list of Weneos Scientific Publications

FAQ – Sunscreen & Cosmetics Testing

What types of sunscreen and cosmetics tests can your equipment support?
Our solutions support a wide range of testing, including SPF determination (in vitro), UVA/UVB protection analysis, critical wavelength measurement, photostability testing, and optical characterisation of cosmetic formulations.

Do you offer equipment for in vitro SPF testing?
Yes, we provide instruments specifically designed for in vitro SPF and UVA testing in line with recognised international standards, helping reduce reliance on in vivo testing and improving repeatability.

Which standards can your systems help us comply with?
Our equipment is suited for testing in accordance with key standards such as ISO, COLIPA guidelines, and FDA-related methods. We can help you select the right configuration based on your regulatory requirements.

Can Pro‑Lite help select the right system for our application?
Absolutely. We work closely with you to understand your application, budget, and compliance needs, recommending a tailored solution from our portfolio of leading manufacturers.

Do you supply complete testing setups or individual components?
Both. We can provide fully integrated testing systems or individual components such as light sources, spectroradiometers, integrating spheres, and sample holders, depending on your requirements.

How accurate and repeatable are these measurement systems?
The systems we supply are designed for high accuracy and repeatability, essential for reliable SPF and UV protection claims. Many are used by leading cosmetics laboratories and manufacturers worldwide.

What support do you offer after purchase?
We offer full lifecycle support including installation, training, technical advice, and ongoing application support to ensure you get the most out of your system.

Do you provide calibration services for testing equipment?
Yes, we offer calibration support—either onsite for larger or complex systems, or by managing calibration through the original manufacturer on your behalf.

Can you support scaling from R&D to production testing?
Yes, our product range covers everything from early-stage research through to high-throughput quality control environments, allowing you to scale as your needs grow.

Do you work with both small labs and large manufacturers?
We support organisations of all sizes, from independent labs and universities to global cosmetics brands and contract testing facilities.

Can your systems be customised?
Yes, many of the solutions we offer can be configured or tailored to meet specific testing requirements, workflows, or regulatory needs.