Sunscreen has to be the most important part of your beauty routine. When you use it correctly, you reduce your risk of sunburn, skin cancer, and premature signs of aging. But sometimes we don’t apply it correctly, or use the right sunscreen for us.
The Cancer Council gives us the golden rules of sunscreen use:
Apply early: 20 minutes before going outdoors.
Use a lot: You need at least one teaspoon per limb, one for the front of the body, one for the back and one for the head. A full body application for an adult should be at least 35mL or seven teaspoons.
And repeat: Don’t forget to reapply. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours if you are spending time outdoors. You should also reapply after swimming, sweating or towel drying.
Remember the full sun toolkit: Sunscreen alone isn’t enough for sun protection. You should also wear protective clothing, a hat and sunglasses, and seek shade when possible.
SPF stands for sun protection factor. SPF50+ is the highest SPF for sunscreen available in Australia. Here are some of Australia’s best sunscreens with SPF50+.
Airyday Golden Glow Dreamscreen
A blendable formula that imbues skin with a lit-from-within glow, thanks to its niacinamide, collagen and vitamins C, E and F. We like this one so much it was a winner in the Prevention Beauty Awards 2023.
This silky, glow-boosting ‘skinscreen’ is proof of how technology has transformed sunscreens both in texture and skincare benefits. The Prevention Australia Beauty Awards judges said: “It feels incredible to apply, is hydrating and silky and the luminous satin finish instantly lifts your complexion.” $49
Go-To Nifty Fifty
Sun protection, hydration and antioxidants combine in this lightweight, non-greasy moisturiser that’s a dream to apply. It’s Nifty Fifty is dermatologically tested to be non-comedogenic (won’t block your pores) and is suitable for all skin types. $45
Bondi Sands Sunny Daze Hydrating Spf 50+ Face Fluid Drops
Give thirsty skin a drink with this non-comedogenic SPF fluid enriched with vitamin E, hibiscus extract and aloe vera. The brand reports that 92% of people surveyed said that the face fluid drops work well with other skincare products. $24.95
Skinstitut Face The Day Spf 50+
This broad spectrum, oil-free, fast-absorbing cream contains hydrating humectants with an invisible matt finish – perfect for under make-up. $56
Aesthetics Rx Face & Body Sunscreen
This lightweight cream allows for natural vitamin D production while providing broad spectrum SPF 50+ protection. It’s also paraben free, cruelty free and vegan. $59
Aspect Sun Cc Cream Spf 50+
The benefits of broad-spectrum sun protection and potent antioxidants meet a convenient colour-correcting tint for instant hydration and luminosity. The light tint is perfect for those makeup free walks or trips to the beach. $59
Ella Baché Superfluid Great Spf50+ Skin Tint
Skin-boosting ingredients, such as green tea, aloe vera and Kakadu plum, make this an elite skin tint. The broad spectrum available in four different shades. $59
Jurlique Uv Defence Daily Lotion Spf 50+
Sheer, non-greasy and light, this hydrating combo of aloe vera extract, hyaluronic acid and glycerin has you sorted. It’s broad spectrum, too. $55
Mesoestetic Mesoprotech Sun Stick
This science-backed sun stick contains nourishing rosehip oil, ideal for sensitive skin and for use around delicate areas like eyes and lips. At just 4.5g you can carry it even in the smallest handbags. $59
The Quick Flick Spf 50+ Hydrating Lip Balm Glaze
Hydrate, protect and shine – three great benefits through one hardworking little tube. Nourish dry lips with this delicious salted caramel-flavoured lip balm that gives subtle shimmer. $36
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