How to choose a sunscreen for you, your cossie and the environment in 5 easy steps

Hey, sun worshippers!

We get it – finding that dream sunscreen that ticks all the boxes can be a real challenge. But fear not, because we're here to rescue you from this SPF dilemma!

Check out our top-notch tips below to make your sunscreen search a breeze. Keep scrolling, folks!

Follow our 5 simple steps to choosing a sunscreen…

Step one: why use sunscreen

We live in Australia (and New Zealand and USA for those in our collective from across the ditch!). We all know that we need sun protection.

UV rays damage our skin - which can lead to early signs of aging and even worse, skin tumours.

There are other ways to protect yourself from the sun and harmful UV rays of course, such as, umbrellas, hats, sunglasses, long sleeve tees and/or beach wraps.

Step two: ensure your sunscreen is at least reef safe

There is no national standard just yet, and science has not yet declared any sunscreen to be completely reef safe.

Yet, those with titanium oxide or zinc oxide (which are natural mineral ingredients) have not been found to be harmful to corals.

Note that in Hawaii, products containing ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate have been banned after a study found that these chemicals are detrimental to local fish and coral reefs.

Choosing gentler sunscreen can also protect your swimsuit whilst covering you for sun protection - so it’s a win-win!

Step three: mineral vs chemical

As listed above, a mineral sunscreen contains titanium oxide or zinc oxide. These aim to deflect UV rays.

Chemical sunscreens aim to absorb the UV rays.

Mineral sunscreens are rapidly becoming popular at the moment.

The best sunscreen is still the one you are using and have in the pantry - but you may wish to consider the above when purchasing your next sunscreen.

Step four: what is the sun protection factor

Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is a number determined experimentally indoors by exposing subjects to a UVB spectrum meant to mimic noontime sun.

The amount of light that induces redness in sunscreen-protected skin, divided by the amount of light that induces redness in unprotected skin determines the SPF of the test product.

SPF 30 is a recommended minimum standard. The experts suggest that anything between a SPF 50 and SPF 50+ may be negligible.

Remember that re-application is still the key!

Step five: water resistance

Try to aim for a water resistance of at least 40 and 80 minutes - so that you can enjoy your swim before you reapply.

Know of any great eco friendly skin protective sunscreens yourself, please share with us.