There’s no doubt about it, Australia is a nation of sun worshippers. And while there are many benefits to this outdoorsy lifestyle, there is also the horrific risk of skin cancer.
We recently interview supermodel Elle Macpherson and she admitted that while she once spent every summer soaked in baby oil tanning, after having skin cancers cut out of her body, she’s come to her senses and has traded that baby oil in for sunscreen.
Rescu. Expert Advice:
To ensure we know exactly what to look for when it comes to sun protection, we interviewed Christine Snow, the Education Manager at True Solutions.
Rescu: What should we look for in a product to ensure our skin is fully protected from the sun?
Christine Snow: International research points to the fact that zinc oxide is the most effective sunscreen for our Australian climate. It is the one ingredient that successfully protects the skin from UVA 1, UVA 11 and UVB. It is inorganic and forms a protective barrier on the skin deflecting the sun’s rays.
Rescu: How can those of us with oily skin protect our skin from the sun without worsening its condition?
Christine Snow: A popular and effective solution for the face is a quality mineral makeup with SPF. They contain no oils so won’t clog the pores. Always remember to apply a traditional sunscreen to neck and chest (we have far fewer oil glands in these regions so there won’t be a problem).
Rescu: There are many different types of UV rays. Which should we look out for and how do we know which a product is protecting us from?
Christine Snow: There are four Ultra Violet (UV) rays. UVC doesn’t penetrate the Earth’s atmosphere so we have no need to worry about that one. UVB rays produce heat and we can feel them on the skin – they are responsible for causing sunburn. The most dangerous rays are the 2 UVA rays as they penetrate more deeply into the skin, cause the skin to prematurely age and worst of all are responsible for many skin cancers. Today, micronized zinc sunscreens are recognized by skincare professionals, dermatologists and consumers as the most efficient form of sun protection.
Rescu: Where in our beauty regime should sunscreen come?
Christine Snow: Zinc based sunscreen should be applied prior to makeup or last. A water-based moisturiser can be used underneath the sunscreen, but wait a few minutes for it to penetrate the skin.
With all this in mind, we’ve picked a few of our favourite sun protection products.
Sun Safe Sensitive Skin
True Solutions All Day Moisture SPF 30+
Our expert Christine Snow told us that sensitive skin types tend to have an impaired barrier function (the natural moisturising layer) and therefore benefit from an additional protective layer.
The True Solutions All Day Moisturiers (available in tinted and non-tinted formulas) contain zinc oxide coated in dimethicone to provide a soothing protective layer.
For stockists call 1800 808 993 ($60.00)
Extreme Sports Shield
Neutrogena Ultimate Sport Range
If you’re a sports nut and want a sunscreen that works as hard as you do, this one is for you. This SPF 30+ range will protect you from the sun without clogging pores or causing breakouts. Plus it’s sweatproof, waterproof and resists rub off.
Rescu. Loves:
Ultimate Sport Sunscreen Spray Our favourite in the range, this boasts super easy application and a breathable, lightway non-comedogenic formula.
Available from leading supermarkets, variety stores and pharmacies nationally ($17.99)
The Beach Bag Must-Have
Invisible Zinc Face and Body Sunscreen SPF 30+ UVA-UVB
This high-protection, broad-spectrum sunscreen is enriched with moisturisers making it a dream to apply. Containing no chemical absorbers and only zinc oxide as an active ingredient, it is even low irritant.
Available from David Jones, Myer, Priceline, Terry White and all good pharmacies nationally (75mL $19.95, 150mL $29.00)
Beat the Ageing Battle
Nivea Age Defence Moisturising Facial Sunscreen SPF 30+
We love a product that solves more than one beauty battle. This sunscreen provides a UVA-UVB filter to provide maximum protection while preventing fine lines and wrinkles with vitamin E and moisturisers.
Available from supermarkets, mass merchants and selected pharmacies nationally ($9.95)
The Foundation
Shiseido Sun Protection Liquid Foundation SPF 30+
Not only is this a beautiful textured liquid foundation in its own right; it defends against strong UVA/UVB rays and resists perspiration, water and oil. There are seven shades to choose from so you’re sure to find your perfect match.
Available from David Jones, Myer and selected pharmacies ($57.00)
Super Hydration
Le Tan Coconut Range
Combining sun protection with the skin smoothing powers of coconut oil, this range protects, hydrates and nourishes the skin all at once. The delicious coconut scent isn’t half bad either!
Rescu. Loves:
Coconut SPF 15 Oil Who knew body oil could protect as from the sun too? This amazing formula from Le Tan helps skin achieve a natural glow while protecting from the sun.
Available from leading supermarkets, selected discount department stores and pharmacies nationally ($10.99)
The Little Things
Hamilton Lipz SPF 30+
No one likes dry, cracked or burnt lips so a protective lip balm is a must-have. Containing aloe vera, vitamins C and E and jojoba to help soothe and protect lips, this SPF 30+ broad-spectrum suncreen stays water resistant for up to two hours and comes in lime, strawberry and vanilla varities.
Call 1800 630 056 for stockists ($7.20)
After Sun Care
Clinique Sun with SolarSmart After Sun Rescue Balm with Aloe
Even with a protective sunscreen the sun can leave our skin feeling a little dry and less supple than we’d like. Clinique’s super soothing After Sun Balm uses aloe and micrococcus lysate to help repair skin damage.
Available from David Jones, Myer, Terry White and selected independent pharmacies or online at www.clinique.com.au ($39.00)
