The inside story behind the Choice sunscreen investigation, and the fallout since
The article details the fallout for the Australian skincare brand Ultra Violette following a 2025 consumer investigation that revealed their sunscreen failed to meet SPF claims. Founders discuss the impact of the scandal on their brand's reputation and their efforts to rebuild trust.
Why it matters
The story highlights the power of consumer advocacy groups in holding premium beauty brands accountable for product safety and efficacy claims.
How Ultra Violette founders Ava Chandler-Matthews and Bec Jefferd found themselves at the centre of “SunscreenGate”.
“A trust rebuild is not as interesting as a sunscreen scandal where there are interesting players,” says Ava Chandler-Matthews (left) pictured with Ultra Violette co-founder Bec Jefferd. Josh Robenstone Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items.
Remove items from your saved list to add more.
Share A A A This story is part of the September 5 edition of Good Weekend. See all stories . In every dramatic fall from grace, there is a before, and there is an after.
For Ava Chandler-Matthews, one half of the duo behind Australian suncare brand Ultra Violette, what preceded the fall that would plague her company was the stuff of bucket lists: a private dinner with billionaire beauty founder Hailey Bieber . What came after would throw this high into sharp relief.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in