Effective sun protection is essential for skin health, yet selecting the right product can be tricky. With shelves packed with creams, gels, and fluids, it’s often hard to know which formula is actually best for you.
Living in Australia means dealing with some of the world’s harshest UV rays. At Dr Refresh, Dr Ritu, Sydney’s leading dermatologist, often reminds patients of one key fact: a good sunscreen does more than block the sun. The “formulation”, or how the product is made, determines how well it protects you, how long it lasts, and whether you’ll actually enjoy wearing it.
Here is what you need to know to make the right choice.
Physical vs. Chemical: Knowing the Difference
Most sunscreens fall into one of two categories: physical blockers or chemical absorbers. However, many superior Australian formulas now combine both to offer stronger, broader, and more stable protection.
1. Physical Blockers
These products use ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to physically shield the skin by reflecting UV rays.
- The benefit: They offer safe protection for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
- The look: In the past, these left a white, chalky residue. However, modern Australian “micronised” formulas are designed to look natural and sheer on the skin. Rest assured, these formulas are free of nanoparticles and have been scientifically proven to be safe for human health. However, be aware that nanoparticle- containing sunscreens do not penetrate the
intact skin and have not been shown to be harmful.
2. Chemical Absorbers
These contain filters that absorb ultraviolet radiation and convert it into safe thermal energy before it can damage your skin.
- The benefit: High-end chemical absorbers are excellent at blocking UVA rays, the type of radiation most responsible for skin ageing.
- The feel: Dermatologists often describe these as having an “elegant finish.” This means they feel lightweight, blend easily, and leave a matte texture without any greasiness.
3. The Hybrid Solution (Dr Ritu’s Recommendation)
Dr Ritu notes that the most reliable defence often comes from sunscreens that use both physical blockers and chemical absorbers. This combination pairs the safety of zinc or titanium with advanced UVB and UVA filters, providing a much higher level of coverage than minerals alone.
Why SPF Numbers Matter
You likely know that SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, but the numbers can be misleading. SPF testing only measures protection against UVB rays (which cause burning and skin cancer, including melanoma). It does not measure UVA rays (which cause deeper skin damage, skin cancer, melanoma and ageing).
To put the numbers in perspective:
- SPF 30 blocks about 96.7% of UVB rays.
- SPF 50 blocks about 98% of UVB rays.
While the difference seems small, that extra protection adds up significantly during a full day in the Australian sun. Always look for labels that say “Broad Spectrum”, this ensures you are protected against both burning (UVB) and ageing (UVA).
Texture and Tint: What to Look For
The texture of your sunscreen is a clue to its quality. If a sunscreen feels watery or slips off immediately, it likely lacks the staying power you need for an active lifestyle.
- Stability: Look for creams or gel-creams. These formulations are designed to grip the skin effectively, resisting sweat and heat during outdoor activities.
- Tints & Antioxidants: Tinted sunscreens do more than just even out your complexion. The iron oxides in the tint help block visible light, which is a major trigger for pigmentation issues like melasma and pigmentation especially in darker skin tones. Added antioxidants further protect your skin from environmental aging. Added antioxidants further protect your skin from environmental aging.
Practical Tips: Storage and Application
Even the best sunscreen won’t work if it’s expired or applied incorrectly.
Storage & Shelf Life: Heat destroys sunscreen. Never leave your bottle in a hot car or in direct sunlight. If your product smells odd, has separated, or has changed texture, throw it away.
How to Apply for Maximum Protection
- The Two-Finger Rule: For the face, squeeze two full strips of sunscreen along the length of your index and middle fingers. This is the correct amount for full facial coverage.
- Body Application: Apply at least one generous teaspoon per limb.
- Consistency: Reapply every two hours when outdoors. Even when indoors, apply a lightweight sunscreen twice daily, especially if you sit near windows.
The Bottom Line
Selecting a sunscreen doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Look for a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ product that combines physical and chemical filters for the ultimate defence against early ageing and uneven skin tone.
Consistency matters as much as the product you choose. For the best results, our team can recommend medical-grade formulas that suit your specific skin type and daily routine.
Keep your skin healthy and protected. Call Dr Refresh today on 02 8014 6500 or contact us online to book your appointment. Your skin deserves the best care
