Dr. Sheth's 100% Mineral Invisible Fluid Sunscreen - Clinical Testing
Dr. Sheth's 100% Mineral Invisible Fluid Sunscreen: Clinical Efficacy Report
Independently tested at CCFT Laboratories with in-vivo SPF 51.210, in-vivo UVA-PF 30.66 (PA++++, PPD 30), 373.11 nm critical wavelength and 3-star Boots rating - broad-spectrum protection from a 100% mineral, fragrance-free, pregnancy-safe fluid.
At a Glance: Sunscreen Performance Metrics
| In-Vivo SPF | In-Vivo UVA-PF | PA Rating | Critical Wavelength | Boots Star | Broad Spectrum |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 51.210 | 30.66 (PPD 30) | ++++ | 373.11 nm | *** | Yes |
This product was evaluated for sunscreen efficacy at CCFT Laboratories Pvt. Ltd. on batch BA/12/05/2026/FF in accordance with IS 17494:2025 (ISO 24444:2019), IS 17492:2021 (ISO 24442:2022) and the COLIPA in-vitro guideline.
1. Study Overview & Design
| Study Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Study Title | Sunscreen Efficacy Certificate for Dr. Sheth's 100% Mineral Invisible Fluid Sunscreen |
| Specific Parameters Measured | Sun Protection Factor (SPF) - In-vivo; UVA Protection Factor (PPD) - In-vivo; PA Rating, Critical Wavelength and Boots Star Rating - In-vitro; Broad Spectrum Classification |
| Why These Parameters Matter | UVB radiation (290-320 nm) causes sunburn and contributes to skin cancer. UVA radiation (320-400 nm) penetrates deeper, causing photoaging, tanning and pigmentation. This study is unusual in measuring UVA protection in vivo on human skin (persistent pigment darkening) as well as in vitro, giving two independent confirmations of the PA++++ rating. |
| Study Type | In-vivo SPF and UVA-PF evaluation on human volunteers, plus in-vitro spectral evaluation |
| Testing Methods | IS 17494:2025 (ISO 24444:2019) - In-vivo SPF; IS 17492:2021 (ISO 24442:2022) - In-vivo UVA-PF (PPD); COLIPA Guideline - In-vitro PA, critical wavelength, Boots Star |
| Specific Product Studied | Dr. Sheth's 100% Mineral Invisible Fluid Sunscreen - 50g, batch BA/12/05/2026/FF (exact commercial formulation) |
| Product Connection | A 100% mineral filter system (zinc oxide / titanium dioxide) in an ultra-light invisible fluid, fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, formulated to deliver broad-spectrum SPF 50 PA++++ protection without white cast and to be suitable during pregnancy and on sensitive skin. |
2. Claim Substantiation Matrix
| Claim | Certificate | Evidence | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| SPF 50 | Sunscreen Efficacy Certificate | In-vivo SPF 51.210 - IS 17494:2025 (ISO 24444:2019) | Supported |
| SPF 50+ (on-pack) | Sunscreen Efficacy Certificate | Under ISO / COLIPA labelling convention, "50+" is used when the measured SPF is 60 or above. The measured in-vivo SPF of 51.210 supports an SPF 50 label. | Review labelling |
| PA++++ | Sunscreen Efficacy Certificate + Clinical Study Report CCFT/CT/2026/1870 | In-vivo UVA-PF 30.66 (PPD 30) on 10 volunteers, all individually ≥ 16 - IS 17492:2021 (ISO 24442:2022); in-vitro PA++++ - COLIPA. PA++++ requires UVA-PF ≥ 16. | Supported (in vivo and in vitro) |
| In-Vivo Tested | Sunscreen Efficacy Certificate + Clinical Study Report | Both SPF and UVA-PF measured on human volunteers; UVA study Ethics-Committee approved (ARMHRC, 13 Jun 2026), ICH-GCP and Schedule Y compliant, zero adverse events | Supported |
| Broad Spectrum | Sunscreen Efficacy Certificate | Critical wavelength 373.11 nm exceeds the 370 nm threshold | Supported |
| Boots Star *** | Sunscreen Efficacy Certificate | *** - UVA/UVB absorbance ratio 60-80% (Boots method) | Supported |
| 100% Mineral Filters | Product page / pack INCI | Formulation claim - confirm zinc oxide / titanium dioxide are the only UV filters on the pack INCI | Brand claim |
| Pregnancy-Safe, Fragrance-Free, Zero White Cast, Non-Comedogenic | Product page | Formulation and sensory claims from the product page. Not part of the efficacy study. | Brand claim |
| 3X Protection Shield (Sun, Pollution, Photo-Aging) | Product page | Marketing claim. Only UV protection was measured in this study. | Brand claim |
3. Test Results and Clinical Interpretation
3.1 Laboratory Results
| Outcome | Result | Method | Clinical Classification |
|---|---|---|---|
| SPF (In-Vivo) | 51.210 | IS 17494:2025 (ISO 24444:2019) | High protection - supports an SPF 50 label |
| UVA-PF (In-Vivo) | 30.66 (PPD 30) | IS 17492:2021 (ISO 24442:2022) | PA++++ (requires UVA-PF ≥ 16) |
| PA Rating (In-Vitro) | ++++ | COLIPA Guideline | Highest achievable tier |
| Critical Wavelength | 373.11 nm | COLIPA Guideline | Exceeds the 370 nm threshold - broad spectrum |
| Boots Star Rating | *** | COLIPA / Boots method | 60-80% UVA/UVB absorbance ratio |
| Broad Spectrum | Yes | COLIPA Guideline | Protection verified across UVB (290-320 nm) and UVA (320-400 nm) |
3.2 Clinical Interpretation of Results
| Metric | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| SPF 51.210 (In-Vivo) | Under standardised conditions per IS 17494:2025 / ISO 24444:2019, the product demonstrated roughly 51 times more protection against UVB-induced erythema than unprotected skin. This supports an SPF 50 label; the "50+" designation is conventionally reserved for measured values of 60 or above (Diffey, 2001, PMID: 11348430). |
| UVA-PF 30.66 / PPD 30 (In-Vivo) | Measured on human skin by persistent pigment darkening, the product delayed UVA-induced pigmentation by a factor of 30.66. PA++++ requires 16 or above. An in-vivo UVA-PF is a higher standard of evidence than the in-vitro PA rating alone (Wang et al., 2011, PMID: 21463374). |
| PA++++ (In-Vitro) | The COLIPA in-vitro method independently placed the product in the PA++++ tier, consistent with the in-vivo result. |
| Critical Wavelength 373.11 nm | Critical wavelength is the point where 90% of total UV absorbance occurs. Exceeding 370 nm confirms coverage into the UVA-I range (340-400 nm). At 373 nm the margin above the threshold is modest, which is typical of mineral-only filter systems and is reflected in the Boots *** rating (Wang et al., 2011, PMID: 21463374). |
| Boots Star Rating *** | The Boots Star Rating measures the ratio of UVA to UVB protection. Three stars indicates a 60-80% ratio (Diffey, 2011, PMID: 21564299). The certificate summarises this as "effective protection against UVB rays while offering a degree of protection against UVA rays". |
| Broad Spectrum | Broad spectrum classification confirms meaningful protection across both UVB and UVA wavelengths; a critical wavelength of at least 370 nm is required (Wang et al., 2011, PMID: 21463374). |
Original Laboratory Reports
The certificate supporting the sunscreen efficacy results is available below, as issued by CCFT Laboratories.
Sunscreen Efficacy Certificate
The Sunscreen Efficacy Certificate for Dr. Sheth's 100% Mineral Invisible Fluid Sunscreen, batch BA/12/05/2026/FF, is available as issued by CCFT Laboratories. It states the in-vivo SPF and in-vivo UVA-PF, the in-vitro PA rating, critical wavelength and Boots star rating, signed by Puneet Mittal, Director R&D.
In-Vivo UVA Protection Factor Study: Clinical Study Report CCFT/CT/2026/1870
The in-vivo UVA-PF result on the certificate comes from a dedicated clinical study on human volunteers, conducted under an Ethics Committee approved protocol and reported in full. The details below are taken from the Clinical Study Report.
| Study Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Study Title | An In-vivo Study to determine the UV-A Protection Factor of Dr. Sheth's 100% Mineral Invisible Fluid Sunscreen (BA/12/05/2026/FF) |
| Protocol / Report No. | CCFT1870 · CCFT/CT/2026/1870 (Version 1.0, protocol dated 10 Jun 2026) |
| Guidelines | IS 17492:2021 (BIS) and ISO 24442:2022 - persistent pigment darkening (PPD) method |
| Compliance | ICH E6 (R2) Good Clinical Practice, Schedule Y (2017), Declaration of Helsinki (2013); relevant sections of GLP |
| Ethics Approval | ARMHRC Institutional Ethics Committee, approved 13 Jun 2026 |
| Principal Investigator | Dr. Robin Chugh, MD (Dermatology) |
| Clinical Research Organisation | Mittal Global Clinical Trial Services (MGCTS), CCFT Laboratories, Meerut |
| Subjects | 10 screened, 0 screen failures, 0 dropouts, 10 completed. Mean age 31 years; skin ITA° 20-41° (Fitzpatrick-equivalent intermediate to tan skin) |
| Study Dates | First subject 26 Jun 2026 · last follow-up 21 Jul 2026 · report signed 25 Jul 2026 |
| Application Dose | 2 mg/cm² ± 2.5% on 40 cm² sites (unprotected, protected, reference S2) |
| Endpoint | Individual UVAPF = MPPDD(protected) / MPPDD(unprotected), read at 24 hours by a dermatologist |
| Reference Sunscreen | S2 reference formulation UVAPF 12.21 - within the standard's acceptance limit, validating the run |
| Adverse Events | None reported; no protocol deviations; no consent withdrawals |
| Report Signatories | Dr. Robin Chugh (Principal Investigator); Puneet Mittal (Director - Clinical Research, MGCTS); Nidhi Dixit and Anshika Chaudhary (Data Managers, DSMB statement) |
Per-Subject UVAPF Results
All ten subjects individually achieved a UVAPF above 16, the PA++++ threshold. The mean is 30.66 (PPD 30).
| Subject | MPPDD(u) mJ/cm² | MPPDD(i)-S2 mJ/cm² | MPPDD(i)-Test mJ/cm² | UVAPF(i) S2 | UVAPF(i) Test |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BSA01 | 25 | 313.34 | 782.3 | 12.53 | 31.29 |
| BSA02 | 25 | 279.77 | 698.5 | 11.19 | 27.94 |
| BSA03 | 31.25 | 376.01 | 977.9 | 12.03 | 31.29 |
| BSA04 | 25 | 313.34 | 782.3 | 12.53 | 31.29 |
| BSA05 | 25 | 313.34 | 698.5 | 12.53 | 27.94 |
| BSA06 | 31.25 | 421.13 | 1095.2 | 13.48 | 35.05 |
| BSA07 | 31.25 | 376.01 | 977.9 | 12.03 | 31.29 |
| BSA08 | 25 | 279.77 | 698.5 | 11.19 | 27.94 |
| BSA09 | 31.25 | 376.01 | 977.9 | 12.03 | 31.29 |
| BSA10 | 25 | 313.34 | 782.3 | 12.53 | 31.29 |
| Mean | 12.21 | 30.66 |
UVAPF(i) = MPPDD(i)/MPPDD(u). Range on the test product: 27.94 to 35.05. Source: CCFT/CT/2026/1870, Section 14.3.
4. Formulation Architecture & UV Filter System
Dr. Sheth's 100% Mineral Invisible Fluid Sunscreen was tested exactly as commercially available. The protection comes entirely from mineral UV filters in an ultra-light fluid base.
4.1 UV Filter System
| Formulation System | Key Components | Function & Performance Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Mineral UV Filter System | [[Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide, with grade and coating per pack INCI]] | Zinc oxide is a broad-spectrum inorganic filter covering UVB through UVA-I; titanium dioxide, where present, adds UVB and short-UVA absorption. Both are photostable, so protection does not degrade under sun exposure the way unstabilised avobenzone does (Smijs & Pavel, 2011, PMID: 22046105). |
| Dispersion / Invisible-Fluid Base | [[Emollients, dispersants and film-formers per pack INCI]] | Fine, evenly dispersed mineral particles in a low-viscosity fluid minimise the white cast associated with mineral sunscreens and allow a thin, even film. |
4.2 Skin Health & Sensory Profile
| Attribute | Basis | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Fragrance-free | Product page | Removes the most common cosmetic sensitiser, relevant for reactive and pregnant skin. |
| Non-comedogenic | Product page | Formulated not to block pores; suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. |
| Pregnancy-safe | Product page | Mineral filters are the ones dermatology guidance generally recommends in pregnancy; no organic UV absorbers. |
| Zero white cast | Product page | Sensory claim dependent on particle grade and application amount. |
4.3 Exclusion Profile: What is Not in This Formula
| What is absent | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| No organic (chemical) UV filters | No avobenzone, octinoxate, oxybenzone or similar; protection is 100% mineral. Removes the photostability and sensitisation concerns associated with some organic filters. |
| No fragrance | Lower irritation potential on sensitive skin. |
| [[Other free-from claims per pack]] | Confirm against the pack before publishing. |
5. Published Research Supporting Key Ingredients
5.1 UV Filters and Photoprotection
| Ingredient | Primary Published Finding | Study Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Zinc Oxide | Broad-spectrum inorganic UV filter covering UVB and UVA including UVA-I; photostable and well tolerated | Smijs & Pavel, 2011, PMID: 22046105 |
| Titanium Dioxide | Inorganic filter with strong UVB and short-UVA attenuation; photostable | Smijs & Pavel, 2011, PMID: 22046105 |
| Mineral filter safety | Coated zinc oxide and titanium dioxide particles show negligible skin penetration in intact skin | Gulson et al., 2010, PMID: 20507948 |
| UVA and photoaging | UVA exposure drives dermal photoaging and pigmentation; broad-spectrum daily use reduces both | Fourtanier et al., 2008, PMID: 18489491 |
| UVA/UVB balance | The Boots Star system quantifies the ratio of UVA to UVB protection | Diffey, 2011, PMID: 21564299 |
5.2 In-Vivo UVA Testing
| Topic | Primary Published Finding | Study Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Persistent Pigment Darkening (PPD) | The PPD method measures UVA protection on human skin and underpins the ISO 24442 standard and the PA rating system | Moyal et al., 2000, PMID: 11069418 |
| Broad-spectrum criteria | Critical wavelength of at least 370 nm is the accepted threshold for broad-spectrum labelling | Wang et al., 2011, PMID: 21463374 |
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does the in-vivo SPF of 51.210 mean in practical terms?
A: Under IS 17494:2025 (ISO 24444:2019), an in-vivo SPF of 51.210 means the sunscreen provided roughly 51 times more protection against UVB-induced erythema than unprotected skin on the test panel. This supports an SPF 50 label; "50+" is conventionally reserved for measured values of 60 or above (Diffey, 2001, PMID: 11348430).
Q: What does UVA-PF 30.66 / PA++++ mean?
A: The UVA Protection Factor was measured in vivo on human volunteers using the persistent pigment darkening method (IS 17492:2021 / ISO 24442:2022) and came to 30.66, rounded to PPD 30. PA++++ requires a UVA-PF of 16 or above, so 30.66 sits well inside the top tier - and it is an in-vivo result, which is stronger evidence than the in-vitro PA rating most sunscreens quote (Wang et al., 2011, PMID: 21463374).
Q: What does a critical wavelength of 373.11 nm mean?
A: Critical wavelength is the point where 90% of a sunscreen's total UV absorbance occurs. 373.11 nm clears the 370 nm international threshold for broad-spectrum classification, confirming coverage into the UVA-I range (Wang et al., 2011, PMID: 21463374).
Q: Why is the UVA/UVB ratio described as 'a degree of protection'?
A: The certificate's own wording is that the product "provides effective protection against UVB rays while offering a degree of protection against UVA rays". That reflects the Boots *** rating (60-80% UVA/UVB absorbance ratio) and the 373 nm critical wavelength - broad spectrum, but not the 4- or 5-star ratio some organic-filter systems achieve. The in-vivo UVA-PF of 30.66 is nonetheless PA++++.
Q: What does '100% mineral' mean?
A: The UV protection comes entirely from mineral (inorganic) filters - zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide - rather than organic chemical absorbers. Mineral filters sit on the skin surface and reflect and absorb UV, are photostable, and are the filters generally recommended during pregnancy and for reactive skin (Smijs & Pavel, 2011, PMID: 22046105).
Q: Is it safe during pregnancy?
A: The brand states the formula is pregnancy-safe because it uses 100% mineral UV filters. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are the filters dermatology guidance generally recommends in pregnancy. This is a formulation-based brand claim; consult your doctor for personal advice.
Q: Does a mineral sunscreen leave a white cast?
A: The brand describes an ultra-light fluid with zero white cast on Indian skin tones. White cast is the classic trade-off of mineral filters and depends on particle grade, dispersion and how much you apply; the invisible-fluid format is designed to minimise it. Some early reviews on the product page report a cast, so apply a thin layer and let it set.
Q: Is this sunscreen suitable for sensitive skin?
A: It is fragrance-free, non-comedogenic and uses only mineral filters, which are the least likely to sting or sensitise. Patch test before first use if your skin is highly reactive.
Q: Can oily or acne-prone skin use it?
A: The lightweight fluid texture absorbs quickly and is non-comedogenic. Zinc oxide is also mildly astringent, which suits oily skin.
Q: Can I wear it under makeup?
A: Yes. The fluid layers under makeup without pilling. Let it set for a minute before applying foundation.
Q: How often should I reapply?
A: Every 2 hours during continuous sun exposure, and after swimming, sweating or towel-drying. The SPF result reflects the ISO application rate of 2 mg/cm² - roughly two finger-lengths for face and neck; under-application reduces the protection you actually receive.
Q: Which batch was tested, and is the study CTRI-registered?
A: Batch BA/12/05/2026/FF. No CTRI number is printed on the certificate or the UVA study report. The UVA study was approved by the ARMHRC Institutional Ethics Committee on 13 Jun 2026 and run under ICH E6 (R2) GCP and Schedule Y, with Indian standards IS 17494:2025 and IS 17492:2021 used alongside their ISO equivalents.
Q: How many people were in the UVA study and were there any side effects?
A: Ten volunteers with ITA° skin values of 20-41° completed the study between 26 Jun and 21 Jul 2026 with no screen failures or dropouts. Every one of the ten individually recorded a UVAPF above 16, ranging from 27.94 to 35.05. No adverse events were reported. Full details are in Clinical Study Report CCFT/CT/2026/1870.
7. Laboratory References and Certificate Details
| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| Testing Laboratory | CCFT Laboratories Pvt. Ltd., Meerut (Centre for Cruelty-Free Testing, Mittal Global Clinical Trial Services) |
| Lab Certifications | ISO 9001:2015, ISO 45001:2015, OECD GLP Compliant |
| Lab Classification | FIST Centre - Dept. of Science & Technology, Govt. of India |
| Batch Tested | BA/12/05/2026/FF |
| UVA Clinical Study Report | CCFT/CT/2026/1870 (Protocol CCFT1870), signed 25 Jul 2026 |
| Ethics Committee | ARMHRC Institutional Ethics Committee - approval dated 13 Jun 2026 |
| Principal Investigator (UVA study) | Dr. Robin Chugh, MD (Dermatology) |
| CTRI Registration No. | Not printed on the certificate or study report |
| Date of Issue | Certificate: not printed. UVA Clinical Study Report: 25 Jul 2026 |
| In-Vivo SPF Method | IS 17494:2025 (ISO 24444:2019) |
| In-Vivo UVA-PF Method | IS 17492:2021 (ISO 24442:2022) |
| In-Vitro Method | COLIPA Guideline |
| Certificate | Sunscreen Efficacy Certificate |
| Sponsor / Brand Owner | Dr. Sheth's (Honasa Consumer Ltd) |
| Signed By | Puneet Mittal, Director R&D, CCFT Laboratories Pvt. Ltd. |
All results reflect testing on the product formulation as commercially available, batch BA/12/05/2026/FF. Results are test-specific under controlled laboratory conditions at the ISO application rate of 2 mg/cm². Real-world outcomes may vary. Reapplication as directed on product packaging is recommended.
8. References
- Diffey BL. Sunscreen isn't enough. J Photochem Photobiol B. 2001;64(2-3):105-108. PMID: 11348430
- Wang SQ, Balagula Y, Osterwalder U. Photoprotection: A review of the current and future technologies. Dermatol Ther. 2011;24(1):31-47. PMID: 21463374
- Diffey BL. The Boots Star Rating system for sunscreen products. Photodermatol Photoimmunol Photomed. 2011;27(3):159-160. PMID: 21564299
- Smijs TG, Pavel S. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide nanoparticles in sunscreens: focus on their safety and effectiveness. Nanotechnol Sci Appl. 2011;4:95-112. PMID: 22046105
- Gulson B, McCall M, Korsch M, et al. Small amounts of zinc from zinc oxide particles in sunscreens applied outdoors are absorbed through human skin. Toxicol Sci. 2010;118(1):140-149. PMID: 20507948
- Fourtanier A, Moyal D, Seité S. Sunscreens containing the broad-spectrum UVA absorber, Mexoryl SX, prevent the cutaneous detrimental effects of UV exposure. Photodermatol Photoimmunol Photomed. 2008;24(4):181-194. PMID: 18489491
- Moyal D, Chardon A, Kollias N. Determination of UVA protection factors using the persistent pigment darkening (PPD) method. Photodermatol Photoimmunol Photomed. 2000;16(6):245-249. PMID: 11069418
- Bureau of Indian Standards. IS 17494:2025 Cosmetics - Sun protection test methods - In vivo determination of the sun protection factor (SPF); IS 17492:2021 - In vivo determination of sunscreen UVA protection. BIS; 2021-2025.
- COLIPA. Method for the in vitro determination of UVA protection provided by sunscreen products. COLIPA; 2011.
- CCFT Laboratories Pvt. Ltd. Sunscreen Efficacy Certificate for Dr. Sheth's 100% Mineral Invisible Fluid Sunscreen, batch BA/12/05/2026/FF. CCFT Laboratories; 2026.
- CCFT Laboratories / Mittal Global Clinical Trial Services. Clinical Study Report CCFT/CT/2026/1870: An In-vivo Study to determine the UV-A Protection Factor of Dr. Sheth's 100% Mineral Invisible Fluid Sunscreen (BA/12/05/2026/FF). Principal Investigator Dr. Robin Chugh. MGCTS, Meerut; 25 Jul 2026.
- Kiriiri GK, Mwangi AN, Maru SM. Sunscreen products: rationale for use, formulation development and regulatory considerations. Saudi Pharm J. 2019;27(7):1009-1018. doi:10.1016/j.jsps.2019.08.003
