Is mineral sunscreen better than chemical?

Neither is better across the board. Both protect when used properly; mineral tends to suit sensitive skin, chemical tends to feel lighter.

What does AUST L mean on sunscreen?

It means the product is listed with the Therapeutic Goods Administration as a sunscreen, with its SPF claim made to the Australian standard.

Do I need sunscreen in winter in Australia?

Whenever the UV index is 3 or above. In northern Australia that's most of the year; further south it can drop below 3 for parts of winter, so check the day's forecast.

Is SPF 50+ much better than SPF 30?

It blocks somewhat more UVB, and Cancer Council Australia recommends 50 or 50+. But applying enough and reapplying matter more than the number on the bottle.

Chemical vs mineral sunscreen, and what Australian labels mean

Why the Australian sun is harsher

Australia has some of the highest UV levels in the world. Our cities are closer to the equator than most in Europe and North America, the Earth is slightly closer to the sun during the southern summer, the ozone layer thins towards the South Pole, and our air carries less of the pollution that blocks some UV elsewhere.

UV isn't heat. It can be just as high on a cool or cloudy day as a hot one, so check the UV index rather than the thermometer. The SunSmart app and the Bureau of Meteorology forecast give daily sun protection times for where you are.

It adds up: Cancer Council estimates two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by age 70. That's why sunscreen here is everyday advice, not just beach advice.

Chemical and mineral filters

Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Chemical (or organic) sunscreens use filters that absorb UV. Both protect when used properly, and many sunscreens combine the two.

Mineral filters tend to suit sensitive skin and can leave a white cast. Chemical filters are usually lighter and invisible, but some people find them stinging around the eyes. That's a matter of fit, not safety.

Reading an Australian label

Products sold mainly as sunscreens are regulated as therapeutic goods in Australia, and most carry an AUST L number. That means the SPF claim is made to the Australian standard and the TGA can test it.

SPF 50+ is the highest rating an Australian label can carry. Broad spectrum means it protects against UVA as well as UVB. Water resistance is rated in minutes, and it wears off with towelling as well as time.

Imported sunscreens, including many K-beauty ones, can be sold without an AUST L number. That doesn't mean they don't work, but their SPF hasn't been listed to the Australian standard.

Using it so it works

Cancer Council Australia recommends a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen of SPF 50 or 50+ whenever the UV index is 3 or above. Put it on before you go outside and reapply every couple of hours, and after swimming or sweating.

Most people apply far less than the amount SPF is tested at. More sunscreen does more than a higher number.

The best sunscreen is the one you'll use every day. Texture and finish matter, because a sunscreen that sits in a drawer protects nothing.

Common questions

Is mineral sunscreen better than chemical?: Neither is better across the board. Both protect when used properly; mineral tends to suit sensitive skin, chemical tends to feel lighter.
What does AUST L mean on sunscreen?: It means the product is listed with the Therapeutic Goods Administration as a sunscreen, with its SPF claim made to the Australian standard.
Do I need sunscreen in winter in Australia?: Whenever the UV index is 3 or above. In northern Australia that's most of the year; further south it can drop below 3 for parts of winter, so check the day's forecast.
Is SPF 50+ much better than SPF 30?: It blocks somewhat more UVB, and Cancer Council Australia recommends 50 or 50+. But applying enough and reapplying matter more than the number on the bottle.