In Australia, sun protection is daily skincare. With high UV levels, consistent SPF is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your skin’s long term health. It helps reduce the risk of sun induced pigmentation, visible ageing, and sensitivity that can come from repeated UV exposure.
One question we hear constantly is simple: physical vs chemical sunscreen. Which is better? The truth is there is no universal best. The best sunscreen is the one that suits your skin and your lifestyle so you will apply it daily and reapply when it matters.
If you are already noticing uneven tone or sunspots, take a look at our page on pigmentation and brown spots for more support options alongside daily SPF.
Why SPF matters more in December
- Longer days and more time outdoors
- UV reflection from water, sand and concrete
- Sweating and swimming reduce wear time
- More social events can mean more cumulative exposure
Even if you are mostly indoors, UV can still be relevant, especially near windows or when you are driving. Consistent daily protection is what makes the biggest difference over time.
What is physical sunscreen?
Physical sunscreen is often called mineral sunscreen. It commonly uses filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
How it works: physical sunscreen sits on the surface of the skin and helps reduce UV penetration by forming a protective layer.
Often suited to:
- Sensitive or reactive skin
- Post treatment skin
- People who experience stinging around the eyes
Things to consider: physical formulas can feel thicker and some can leave a white cast if they are not well formulated. Many newer formulas are far more wearable than older versions.
What is chemical sunscreen?
Chemical sunscreen uses organic UV filters that absorb UV and convert it into heat, which is then released from the skin.
Often suited to:
- Active lifestyles and outdoor exercise
- People who prefer lightweight textures
- Those who want a more invisible finish under makeup
Things to consider: chemical sunscreen is usually best applied before sun exposure. Some people with very sensitive skin may find certain formulas sting, particularly around the eye area.
What about hybrid sunscreens?
Hybrid formulas combine mineral and chemical filters. Many people find hybrids the easiest everyday option because they balance comfort, wearability and a more invisible finish, while still supporting strong UV protection.
Which SPF is best for different skin types?
Sensitive or reactive skin
Many sensitive skin types prefer mineral or hybrid formulas, especially around the eyes. If you also deal with visible redness, you may find it helpful to explore our rosacea and diffused redness page for additional support strategies.
Pigmentation prone skin
Consistency is everything. Choose a TGA listed SPF 50 you will apply daily and reapply when outdoors. For additional support with uneven tone, visit pigmentation and brown spots.
Oily or acne prone skin
Lightweight textures are often the easiest to stick with. Look for non comedogenic formulas and avoid heavy layers that feel occlusive in heat. If congestion is a recurring issue, our acne, blemishes and congestion page is a useful guide.
Dry or dehydrated skin
If your skin feels tight in summer, choose SPF formulas with hydrating and barrier supporting ingredients, and build hydration underneath. Our guide to dry, dehydrated and dull skin shares supportive steps and treatment options.
Outdoors, sport and long days in the sun
Choose a formula you will reapply, and pair SPF with hats, sunglasses and shade breaks. Lifestyle protection matters as much as product choice.
Why TGA listed sunscreen matters in Australia
In Australia, many sunscreens are regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). A TGA listed sunscreen has been assessed against requirements for safety, quality and SPF performance claims.
This matters because SPF is not just a marketing claim. You want a sunscreen that has been tested to meet Australian standards.
The most common SPF mistakes
- Not applying enough product to achieve the labelled protection
- Forgetting ears, neck, chest and hands
- Not reapplying when outdoors, sweating or swimming
- Relying on makeup SPF alone
- Skipping SPF on cloudy days
How Vitality helps you choose the right SPF
During a consultation, our dermal clinicians consider your skin type, sensitivity, pigmentation risk, lifestyle and treatment plan. The goal is a sunscreen you will use consistently, plus a routine that supports your barrier year round.
Book here: VISIA Skin Consultation