Choosing a sunscreen can feel overwhelming, with so many products, ingredients and claims to compare. Understanding a few key details on the label can help you select a sunscreen that suits your skin and offers the protection you need.
Not all sunscreens cover you for both UVA and UVB. Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both.
UVB is the primary cause of sunburn and plays an important role in the development of skin cancer. UVA can penetrate more deeply into the skin and contributes to premature skin ageing, long-term skin damage and skin cancer. Choosing broad-spectrum sunscreen helps protect your skin from both types of ultraviolet radiation.
Water-resistant sunscreen can help maintain its protection for a stated period while you are swimming or sweating. However, no sunscreen is completely waterproof.
Sunscreen gradually washes off through water, perspiration, towel drying and general movement. Reapply after swimming, sweating, towel drying or whenever directed on the label -even if the product is described as water resistant.
Water-resistant sunscreen is useful for days spent outdoors, but it should be combined with protective clothing, a broad-brimmed hat, sunglasses and shade wherever possible.
Like other skincare products, sunscreen has an expiry date. Over time, its active ingredients may become less effective, particularly if the product has been exposed to heat or stored incorrectly.
Before using sunscreen, check that it is in date and that the packaging is intact. It is also important to follow the storage instructions. Avoid leaving sunscreen in direct sunlight or in a hot car, as excessive heat can affect the product.
If the sunscreen has changed colour, smell or texture, or the expiry date has passed, replace it.
Mineral and chemical sunscreens use different active ingredients to protect the skin.
Mineral sunscreens, sometimes called physical sunscreens, commonly use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. They sit on the skin and reflect or scatter UV radiation. They may be a good choice for people with sensitive skin, although some formulas can feel thicker or leave a visible white cast.
Chemical sunscreens absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, which is then released from the skin. They are often lightweight, easy to spread and typically don’t leave a white cast. Some people with sensitive skin may prefer chemical sunscreens specifically formulated for sensitive skin.
Neither option is automatically better for everyone. The best sunscreen is broad spectrum, SPF50+, in date and one you’ll apply and wear every day.
In New Zealand, sunscreen products are required to meet the joint Australian and New Zealand sunscreen standard, AS/NZS 2604. The current standard is AS/NZS 2604:2021, which sets requirements for sunscreen testing, performance and labelling.
The standard helps ensure that sunscreens do what they claim on the packaging and undergo appropriate testing. It also supports clear labelling and does not permit misleading claims such as “waterproof”, “sunblock” or “sweat proof”.
When buying sunscreen in New Zealand, check the label for information about the product’s SPF, broad-spectrum protection, water resistance and directions for use.
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