Which sunscreen should I use and what does SPF mean?

Protecting our skin from UV rays is the most important step in our skincare routine, for our face and bodies. If you read our blog post on wearing sunscreen all year round, you’re now clued up on the difference between UVA and UVB rays and why you should wear sunscreen even indoors. However, you’re probably wondering which product is best for you, right? Well, we’ve got you covered.

Which sunscreen should I use?

We launched our brand new range of cutting-edge sunscreens alongside our improved mineral range to ensure there’s an option to suit all skin types and lifestyles. The good news is, all of our sunscreens offer water resistance, broad-spectrum protection, reef-safe certification from Protect Land + Sea, skincare and antioxidant benefits, and super smooth textures.

Choosing the best one for you comes down to your skin’s sensitivity levels, skin tone, and how easily you burn. Ultra-sensitive skin will love our 100% mineral Skin Shade range, whereas if you have a deeper skin tone, you may like to opt for the transparent finish of our Great Barrier. Use our handy flowchart below to help you find your perfect formula! 

What does SPF mean?

 

SPF stands for sun protection factor, which is the number (15, 30, 50) you see on the pack. The numbers refer to a guideline of time your skin can be exposed to the sun before burning from UVB damage - the numbers don’t refer to UVA protection at all. All year round, you should still opt for broad-spectrum protection, to ensure you’re covered against UVA rays.

For example, if you’re out in the sun without sunscreen and your skin starts to turn pink/red after 10 minutes, wearing an SPF 30 would delay this by 300 minutes, and an SPF 50 would delay this by 500 minutes.

Get to know our sun care products

SUN DAY FACIAL UV DEFENCE SPF50  

This transparent SPF lotion also works as a primer before makeup. Freshly made with antioxidant-rich hibiscus extract to defend against free radicals and hyaluronic acid to provide a boost of hydration.

• Blue light protection
• Primes skin for makeup
• Hydrates skin

 Shop Sun Day Facial UV Defence

GREAT BARRIER SUN LOTION SPF 30, 50

Perfect for normal to sensitive skin and darker skin tones. This hydration lotion is freshly made with green algae extract to combat free radicals and vitamin E to repair and rejuvenate skin.

• Mineral + chemical filters
• Pollution protection
• Transparent, lightweight finish

Shop Great Barrier Sun Lotion

SUN STICK - SPF 50+

A transparent SPF balm that can be applied on the go. Freshly made with tamanu oil to leave skin feeling nourished and soft, and marshmallow root extract to soothe irritation.

• Transparent, soothing balm
• Suitable for babies 6m+
• Repairs as it protects

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SKIN SHADE TINTED FACIAL SUN CREAM - SPF 50

This tinted SPF cream that doubles as a sheer foundation. Freshly made with wild hibiscus flower extract to fight free radicals and vitamin E to nourish and protect skin.

• Sheer, tinted coverage
• Dewy finish
• Moisturising properties

 Shop Skin Shade Tinted Facial Sun Cream

SKIN SHADE SUN CREAM - SPF 30, 50

Perfect for super sensitive skin. This mineral sun cream is freshly made with passion flower oil extract to help retain skin moisture and wild hibiscus flower extract to fight free radicals.

• 100% mineral filters
• Increased water resistance 
• Rich texture

Shop Skin Shade Sun Cream