Sunscreen Explained

Learn more about the sunscreen facts and myths to help protect yourself and your family from skin cancer.

Sunscreen Explained

Australia has some of the strongest sun in the world. UV rays damage skin cells, cause sunburn, speed up wrinkles, and increase your risk of skin cancer.

Sun protection is about UV, not heat.
Even on cool or cloudy days, UV can be high, so that’s why it’s important to be aware, informed and protect yourself appropriately.

Rule of thumb:
If the UV index is 3 or higher, you need sunscreen.
In Victoria, that’s most days from September to April. You can check today’s UV level wherever you are in the world with the SunSmart UV App.

Two Types of Sunscreen

1. Physical (mineral) sunscreens

Use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to sit on your skin and reflect UV away like a mirror.

Pros & Cons – Great for sensitive skin, works immediately, but can be thicker or leave a white cast.

Examples – Invisible Zinc, Sunsense Sensitive, Ego Zinc Shade

2. Chemical sunscreens

Use chemical filters like avobenzone, octocrylene, or homosalate that absorb UV and turn it into harmless heat.

Pros & Cons – Lightweight, invisible, water-resistant, but can sting eyes or take 20 minutes to kick in.

Examples – La Roche-Posay Anthelios, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer, Nivea Sun Protect

What Does SPF really Mean?

Mineral vs Chemical Sunscreen

How to tell the difference?

That’s right — not all sunscreens are created equal…

Mineral Sunscreens often, but not always, have the word “mineral” on the label.

If in doubt, look at the “Active Ingredients” list on the bottle:

If it only lists zinc or titanium, it’s mineral.
If it lists other chemical names, it’s chemical.
Some can use both.

Useful sunscreen FAQ’s

Do I need sunscreen in winter – Yes, if UV is 3 or above.

How often should I reapply – Every 2 hours, and after swimming, sweating, or towel-drying.

How much should I apply – About a teaspoon per limb, front, back, and one for face/neck — 7 teaspoons in total.

Recent CHOICE Sunscreen Controversy

Earlier this year, CHOICE tested popular sunscreens and found some didn’t meet their SPF claims.

Despite this, the article reinforces the importance of using sunscreen. Even if an SPF 50 performs closer to SPF 30, it still offers strong protection, with minimal clinical difference. Studies like the Nambour trial show SPF 15 can reduce some skin cancer risks by about 50%.

SPF testing can also vary between labs, so results aren’t always consistent.

Ultimately, any sunscreen is better than none—apply generously and combine with hats, clothing, and shade.

Read the full article from CHOICE – We tested the SPF claims of 20 sunscreens. 16 failed:

Final Word on Sunscreen

The famous Nambour Skin Cancer Prevention Trial in Queensland followed 1,600 adults for over 10 years.

People who used sunscreen every day had:

40% fewer squamous cell cancers (SCCs)
About 50% fewer melanomas, especially invasive ones
Fewer solar keratoses (precancerous scaly patches)
No difference in basal cell cancers, probably because BCCs are more linked to brief, intense sunburns in childhood rather than cumulative exposure.

This was the first study in the world to show sunscreen doesn’t just stop sunburn — it actually prevents melanoma.

Bonus research findings:

Up to 80% of visible ageing is caused by UV—making sunscreen the most effective anti-wrinkle product
Daily sunscreen use led to 24% less skin ageing in 4.5 years, with fewer wrinkles and improved texture.

Sunscreen isn’t just about avoiding sunburn. It prevents melanoma, cuts down precancerous spots, slows aging, and keeps your skin looking healthier for longer.

Think of it as both your health shield and your best cosmetic tool.