Top 10 Best Sunscreens in Australia (2025 Edition)
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Time to read 7 min
Why Sunscreen Matters (More Than You Think)
Whether you're basking in the Bondi sun or just walking to the local café, sunscreen is your skin's best mate. It doesn’t just protect you from painful burns; it helps fend off premature ageing, hyperpigmentation and the bigger, scarier issue—skin cancer.
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Our sunny climate demands high-performing sunscreens; yet ironically, recent findings suggest many don’t live up to their label claims. According to the TGA’s statement on the CHOICE SPF study, several sunscreens tested did not meet their advertised SPF levels—yep, even popular ones. This makes finding a reliable option all the more important.
This list is here to help you cut through the clutter and find the top sunscreen options that actually deliver on their promises.
Table of contents
💭 Mineral vs Chemical Sunscreens: Which should I choose?
Mineral (Physical) Sunscreens
Uses zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
Sit on the skin’s surface and reflect UV rays.
Gentler on sensitive skin.
Can leave a white cast.
Chemical Sunscreens
Absorb UV rays and convert them to heat.
Easier to rub in; usually invisible.
May irritate sensitive skin or eyes.
In general, mineral sunscreens are best for daily wear and sensitive skin; chemical options are ideal for sporty or beach days where sweat and water resistance matter.
However sunscreen is only the first line of defence in premature aging. Pair your sunscreen with supplements like NMN, glutathione and collagen to repair your skin on a cellular level. Keep reading to learn more about protecting yourself from photoageing.
The 10 Best Sunscreens in Australia
1. We Are Feel Good Inc. Mineral Sunscreen SPF50+
This Aussie-made beauty combines broad-spectrum protection with a skin-loving formula that feels more like skincare than sunscreen.
Key Highlights:
Mineral formula with zinc oxide
Water-resistant; no white cast
Suitable for face and body
2. Barefoot Labs WhipScreen SPF50
This ultra-light mousse is a fan fave; the fruity scent and air-whipped texture make sunscreen feel less like a chore.
Key Highlights:
Chemical sunscreen
Fun mousse form
Fragrant and quick to apply
3. Rip Curl The Surfers Sunscreen SPF50
Perfect for surf, sweat, and sand; this sunscreen was designed with Aussie beach life in mind.
Key Highlights:
Water-resistant formula
Reef-safe
Sporty application
4. The Quick Flick SPF50+ 3-in-1 Mist
A setting spray, hydration mist and SPF in one; it’s skincare-meets-makeup for on-the-go types.
Key Highlights:
Spray application
Lightweight finish
Great over makeup
5. MooGoo Clear Zinc Sunscreen SPF40
A clean-beauty cult fave; gentle enough for bub but effective enough for grown-ups.
Key Highlights:
Zinc oxide-based
Moisturising formula
Fragrance-free
6. Standard Procedure SPF50+ Sunscreen 250ml
Made for outdoor adventurers; large size, serious staying power.
Key Highlights:
Chemical formula
Made in Australia
No parabens or oxybenzone
7. MECCA COSMETICA To Save Body SPF50+
A luxe-feel body sunscreen that hydrates while protecting.
Key Highlights:
Hydrating chemical sunscreen
Non-greasy finish
Elegant packaging
8. Cancer Council Kids Sunscreen SPF50+
Trust the experts; this is the go-to for little ones and those with sensitive skin.
Key Highlights:
Gentle, dermatologically tested
SPF 50+ with broad-spectrum cover
Water-resistant
9. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer SPF50 Body Lotion
Budget-friendly yet reliable; perfect for daily wear.
Key Highlights:
Dry-touch finish
Lightweight feel
Broad-spectrum chemical SPF
10. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Wet Skin SPF50+
A French pharmacy staple; made for wet conditions.
Key Highlights:
Can be applied on wet skin
Sensitive-skin friendly
Non-comedogenic
📖 Quick Comparison: Best Sunscreens in Australia (2025)
Here's an at-a-glance comparison of our top picks for the best 10 sunscreens in Australia:
| Rank | Product | Form | Key Ingredients | Price Range ($-$$$) | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | We Are Feel Good Inc. Mineral SPF50+ | Cream | Zinc Oxide | $$ | Mineral, no white cast, broad-spectrum |
| #2 | Barefoot Labs WhipScreen SPF50 | Mousse | Avobenzone, Octocrylene | $$ | Fun scent, lightweight texture |
| #3 | Rip Curl The Surfers SPF50 | Cream | Mixed UV filters | $$ | Reef-safe, water-resistant |
| #4 | The Quick Flick 3-in-1 Mist | Spray | Avobenzone, Aloe | $$ | Hydrating mist, sets makeup |
| #5 | MooGoo Clear Zinc SPF40 | Cream | Zinc Oxide | $ | Gentle, fragrance-free |
| #6 | Standard Procedure SPF50+ | Cream | UV chemical actives | $ | Large size, Aussie-made |
| #7 | MECCA To Save Body SPF50+ | Lotion | Avobenzone | $$$ | Luxe feel, hydrating |
| #8 | Cancer Council Kids SPF50+ | Lotion | Mixed filters | $ | Gentle, water-resistant |
| #9 | Neutrogena Ultra Sheer SPF50 | Lotion | Avobenzone | $ | Dry-touch, everyday use |
| #10 | La Roche-Posay Anthelios Wet Skin SPF50+ | Lotion | Mexoryl SX/XL | $$$ | Works on wet skin, sensitive safe |
🔍 Sunscreen Buyer's Guide: What to Look For
✅ SPF Level
SPF (Sun Protection Factor) measures protection from UVB rays, which cause sunburn. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays; SPF 50+ offers even better defence. For Australian conditions, SPF 50+ is strongly recommended, especially during summer or outdoor activity.
✅ Broad-Spectrum Protection
Broad-spectrum sunscreens shield against both UVA (ageing) and UVB (burning) rays. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and accelerate ageing; UVB rays cause immediate damage. For long-term skin health, you need coverage for both.
✅ Third-Party Testing
Many sunscreens make big claims; independent lab testing ensures those claims hold up. It means the SPF rating and water resistance are validated by unbiased experts, giving you peace of mind that your skin is truly protected. Also check if your sunscreen is registered with Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG).
✅ Water Resistance
Whether you're swimming, sweating, or just active outdoors, a water-resistant formula ensures the sunscreen won’t rinse off easily. Look for 40 or 80-minute labels, and always reapply after swimming or towel drying.
✅ Skin Type Compatibility
If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, opt for fragrance-free, non-comedogenic and mineral-based formulas. Oily skin? Choose matte or dry-touch products. For dry skin, hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or aloe can help maintain your moisture barrier.
☀️ Final Verdict: Sunscreen is Only The First Step towards Healthy Aging
Finding the best sunscreen in Australia isn’t just about high SPF numbers or trendy packaging; it’s about trust, performance, and skin compatibility. With so many options on the market, knowing your ingredients and choosing products backed by third-party testing is more essential than ever.
Each sunscreen on this list has earned its spot for a reason; whether it’s ultra-gentle mineral blends or water-resistant, beach-ready chemical formulas, there’s a perfect match for every skin type and lifestyle.
But remember; sunscreen is only the first step. For true longevity and skin resilience, you’ve got to nourish from within. That’s why we recommend pairing your SPF routine with The Age Defence System . Powered by NMN, it supports cellular repair and rejuvenation at a deeper level, helping your skin bounce back from daily sun exposure.
This bundle features three powerful supplements designed to support healthy ageing from the inside out. The Repair (NMN+) boosts energy and cellular repair; The Protect (Glutathione+) strengthens immunity and promotes radiant skin; and The Cleanse (Spermidine+) encourages cellular renewal for improved vitality and longevity. Together, they make a well-rounded trio for feeling and looking your best as you age.
Clinically-Backed Formula : Features naturally fermented Uthever® NMN combined with Apigenin and L-tryptophan — compounds shown to support NAD+ recycling, slow its breakdown, and extend cellular vitality.
Enhanced NAD+ Longevity : Apigenin and L-tryptophan help your body not just produce but also maintain NAD+ longer, providing sustained energy and metabolic benefits throughout the day.
Pharmaceutical-Grade Quality : Formulated in Singapore and produced in GMP-certified European facilities with rigorous third-party testing for potency, purity, and stability.
Holistic Benefits : Beyond boosting NAD+, The Repair supports cellular repair, energy production, cognitive health, and healthy aging — all in one clean and effective capsule.
Transparent Company : For Youth shares full ingredient sourcing, clinical references, and clear usage instructions, setting a new standard for supplement transparency in Australia.
For Australians serious about energy, longevity, and NAD+ optimization, The Age Defence System is the most complete and reliable anti-aging solution on the market today.
So slap on the sunscreen, pop your NMN, and go confidently into the Aussie sun—protected inside and out.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What SPF should I use daily?
For daily use, dermatologists recommend a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. It offers strong protection against both UVA and UVB rays, making it ideal for everyday wear.
❓How often should I reapply sunscreen?
Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours; more frequently if you're sweating, swimming or towel-drying. Even water-resistant formulas wear off over time.
❓ Can I wear sunscreen under makeup?
Yes; sunscreen can and should be worn under makeup. Let it absorb fully into your skin first, then apply makeup as usual. You can also use setting sprays or powders with SPF for top-ups during the day.
❓ Can sunscreen help with anti-ageing and hyperpigmentation?
Absolutely; wearing sunscreen daily is one of the most effective ways to prevent premature ageing and dark spots. Consistent use protects collagen, reduces inflammation and helps maintain an even skin tone over time.
❓ How does NMN help protect skin from sun-related ageing?
NMN boosts NAD+ levels in the skin; this supports DNA repair and reduces oxidative stress caused by UV exposure. Combined with sunscreen, it helps combat premature ageing like wrinkles, fine lines and pigmentation.
❓ Can NMN and sunscreen work together for better skin protection?
Yes; sunscreen blocks harmful UV rays at the surface, while NMN works at a cellular level to repair sun-induced damage. Using both can strengthen your skin’s defences and support a more youthful, even complexion over time.
