We’re Obsessed With… These Affordable Aussie Sunscreens

We all know that wearing sunscreen daily is important – it protects against the risk of skin cancer, works to prevent visible signs of skin aging, and helps to fade pigmentation and reduce inflammation. But choosing a sunscreen is where things can get more complicated. There are tonnes of great SPF brands and sunscreen formulas out there – so many in fact, that it can be hard to know which one to choose. Of course, things like the formula and texture are important to consider, but one of my top pieces of advice when shopping for SPF is to look for Australian brands.

Why? Because Australia has one of the highest skin cancer rates in the world, which means that the Australian government has really strict standards for sunscreen formulations and that SPFs are designed to protect skin in a really harsh environment. Their definition of ‘broad spectrum’ is stricter than that in the US, and their definition of ‘water resistant’ is even stricter than that used in Europe, meaning that formulas have to work even harder to pass the country’s tough requirements. All of this means that if you want a sunscreen that you can really rely on, buying one from an Aussie brand is your best option.

You’ll probably be surprised by how many brands actually are Australian – Naked Sundays, Ultra Violette, and Coco & Eve are just a few. And if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, Bondi Sands is another of our top Aussie picks. The brand is most well known for their fake tans, but has a growing range of sunscreen products for both face and body which have fast become firm favourites amongst skincare obsessives. Testing and trying sunscreens is one of my favourite perks of my job, so if you’re after a Bondi Sands sunscreen review, you’ve come to the right place. Scroll down to find the best Bondi Sands SPF for you.

With over 400 reviews and an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, it’s easy to see why this is one of Bondi Sands’ bestselling facial sunscreens. The lightweight cream formula feels every bit as hydrating as a moisturiser and leaves skin with a great glow (and no white cast). It’s a great option for dry skin types, and since it’s fragrance-free, it’s also perfect for sensitive skin.

Perfect for those with oily and combination skin, this ultra-lightweight sunscreen has a thin, fluid formula which absorbs quickly and easily into skin, without leaving even a hint of residue. What’s more, the formula is non-comedogenic (proven not to clog pores), making this a perfect option for breakout-prone skin types.

For top-ups and on-the-go application, a sunscreen mist is a handbag essential. This one has an ultra-fine spray which means it can even be applied over makeup – the fast-absorbing formula dries down to a totally invisible finish which can even help to refresh and set foundation. Plus, it’s super hydrating, so won’t dry out skin in the process.

If you have dry or dehydrated skin then you probably prefer a thicker cream texture to a thinner serum-like one. This sunscreen is every bit as hydrating as a moisturiser, thanks to ingredients like algae, vitamin E, and aloe leaf juice. Ideal for those who want a minimal, streamlined skincare routine.

Foundations with SPF are never enough to rely on to protect your skin. The reason being, you’d have to apply a lot of foundation to get the coverage you need. A tinted sunscreen is a far better option, and is also perfect for those who prefer a natural, no makeup-makeup look. This has a silky serum texture which can easily be blended into skin using a sponge or your fingertips.

Mineral sunscreens are often recommended as a particularly good option for sensitive skin types to use. This low-irritant SPF uses zinc to create a physical barrier between skin and the sun for maximum protection.

A tinted take on the brand’s bestselling sunscreen, this product basically functions as your SPF, moisturiser, and base makeup in one go. It blurs over pores and marks, leaving skin with a soft-focus matte finish.

A bodycare version of the facial sunscreen mist above, this lightweight spray absorbs quickly and provides water resistant protection for up to four hours. It’s perfect for one-the-go applications.

Although we all know that sunscreen is for life, and not just for summer, this sunscreen lotion has a subtle coconut scent which brings major summer-y vibes, all year long. The formula is ultra-nourishing and packed with vitamin E to keep skin moisturised as well as protected.

Also designed to be used on the body, this sensitive skin-friendly formula is suitable even for those with eczema, psoriasis, and super dry skin.