Daily SPF as a non-negotiable. It’s a basic law of beauty and health that should, by now, be second nature.
However, with increasing access to top-grade SPF formulas, it can be hard to sort out the best sunscreens for our complexions. With terms like ‘broad spectrum’, ‘UVA’ and ‘UVB’ adorning the shelves, how are we to know which products are truly the best for us?
Enter Australian sunscreens. As of late, brands like Ultra Violette, Mecca Cosmetica and Bondi Sands have been earning international credence, widely regarded as some of the most superior formulas on the market. Picturing stereotypical images of Australia’s sunny beaches and outdoor-heavy lifestyles, it’s not hard to understand why their sunscreen should be a national treasure. But is it simply savvy marketing, or do these claims have truth to them?
Vogue Singapore reached out to Dr Michelle Wong, Australian science educator, cosmetic chemist and founder of Lab Muffin, for her insight on what sets Australian SPFs apart. Read on for her expertise, alongside the best Australian sunscreens to shop in Singapore.
What is it about Australian SPF formulas?
As Dr Michelle Wong explains, it’s true that Australian sunscreens face tough regulations to appear on the shelves.
“Australian sunscreens are regulated as therapeutic goods, which means they’re subject to a higher level of scrutiny than in most other countries,” Wong advises. Consider the term ‘broad spectrum’. A sunscreen that’s broad spectrum will offer significant protection against UVA rays of longer wavelength, which “are less associated with sunburn but still contribute to premature ageing, skin cancer and hyperpigmentation.” In Australia, a ‘broad spectrum’ sunscreen needs to fulfil strict criteria based on both the UVA ray wavelengths they protect against, and the UVA protection factor offered itself.
“Australia also has longer water resistance standards, with two- and four-hour protection claims being commonplace,” continues Wong.
So while meeting these standards certainly makes a great case for the potency of Australian formulas, it’s mostly important to have an understanding of how your SPF selection is working for you—regardless of its country of origin.
Pressed for her advice on making a choice, Wong shares: “The most important things to look out for are standardised claims (SPF, broad spectrum, and water resistance if you’re planning to do a lot of activity), comfort and budget. You’ll also want to look out for any specific ingredients you’re allergic to. The best sunscreen is one that you’ll be able to apply a lot of, consistently.”
How should I apply my sunscreen?
While other beauty bases may allow for a sparing attitude—from simplified skincare routines to light-handed make-up approaches—Dr Wong asserts that generosity is key where SPF is concerned.
“You want to aim for about a quarter of a teaspoon for your face alone,” Wong says. “This is more than you’d expect, so I recommend squeezing out generous lines on two fingers, then scraping that into a quarter-teaspoon measuring spoon to see how close you are to the right amount.”
“For the whole body, you want to use the equivalent of a 30ml shot glass. Again, it’s more than you’d expect, so I’d recommend measuring this out in a shot glass!”
Reapplication is also an important, if oft-neglected, step to remember as part of your SPF routine. Dr Wong recommends setting a timer if you’re outdoors for an extended period of time. “It’s generally recommended that you reapply sunscreen every two hours, and more often if you’re sweating a lot or going into water.”
Knowledge is power where sunscreen is concerned. With UV rays capable of wreaking damage that can manifest as wrinkles, uneven pigmentation and skin cancer, it pays to be informed—regardless of where your sunscreen comes from.
