According to studies, two out of three Australians will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer in their lifetime, with non-melanoma skin cancer being the most common form of cancer in Australia. Over 95% of these are caused by exposure to UV radiation so it’s incredibly important to stay protected.
That’s why it’s so important to check your skin often for signs of skin cancer and safeguard your skin by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen and seeking shade where possible. To help you do just that, we’ve rounded up 10 of the best body sunscreens on the market right now.
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Should you wear full body sunscreen every day?
Contrary to what many may think about only wearing sunscreen on sunny days or beach excursions, sunscreen – both on the face and body – should be worn everyday. Australia has some of the highest levels of UV radiation in the world so it’s especially important to stay protected on days even when it’s cloudy.
As stated by Cancer Council Australia: “Use sunscreen every day on days when the UV Index is forecast to be 3 or above. Sunscreen should be incorporated into your daily morning routine on these days.”
How to apply sunscreen for an Australian summer
Regardless of whether it’s summer, autumn, spring or winter, the application process for putting on sunscreen is exactly the same. Cancer Council recommends applying sunscreen 20 minutes before exposure to UV. Use approximately one teaspoon for each arm, the legs, front of the body, back of the body and face, for a total of about seven teaspoons to clean, dry skin. It should also be reapplied every 2 hours.
Best overall body sunscreen for everyday use
Perfect for all skin types including those more sensitive inclined, this (almost) 5-star rated body and hand sunscreen is the perfect overall formula. It’s hydrating – hence the name– four hour water and sweat resistance, nourishing and protective for everyday wear.
There’s a lot to love about this SPF50+ sunscreen. As well as just being a powerful sun protectant, it’s loaded with vitamin A, B and C, Papain and Bromelain for added benefits against free radicals, and is ideal for sensitive skin, skin irritations and reduces redness.
Ideal for all skin types including those ranging from normal to oily, this quick-absorbing sunscreen doesn’t leave that weird white cast some can. Skin is left dry and smooth while protecting from UV rays thanks to its SPF50+ formulation.
Best affordable body sunscreen
You know that horrible sticky and greasy feeling you get with some sunscreens? Bali Body knows the struggle all too well so they’ve specifically created a lightweight sunscreen that protects the skin from harmful rays while absorbing quickly so you’re left with a non sticky formula that’s dry to the touch.
Affordable, lightweight and great for everyday use, this SPF50 sunscreen features UVA + UVB broad spectrum protection. It doesn’t go on greasy and is up to four hours water resistant so it’s perfect for beach days. Like all Cancer Council products, each purchase funds cancer research.
Best Australian body sunscreen
Aussie brand, Naked Sundays took inspiration from Sydney’s most famous beach for their body sunscreen crème. Designed for the harsh Australian sun, it’s enriched with Kakadu Plum and vitamin E protects your whole body while nourishing and hydrating the skin.
Made in Australia and for the Aussie sun, this SPF50+ lotion protects against UVA and UVB, doesn’t contain any nasty fragrances and can be worn for up to four hours. It’s also free for parabens and sulphates, and absorbs into the skin super fast.
Doubling for both the body and face, this SPF50+ sunscreen is water resistant for up to four hours so it’s perfect for beach days. The UVA and UVB broad spectrum formula is backed with hyaluronic acid and aloe vera for even more protection. Plus, it has a luscious coconut smell for all-day tropical vibes.
Best body sunscreen for sensitive skin
Sensitive and irritated skin was at the forefront when this SPF50+ body sunscreen was formulated. It’s free of fragrance and parabens, dermatologically tested and clinically proven while containing specific UV filters for mothers-to-be, babies over 6 months of age and those with delicate skin.
It’s all in the name. This sensitive sunscreen is fragrance-free and dermatologically tested. Vitamin E and the addition of aloe vera soothes the skin while the SPF50+ formula protects and nourishes. It goes on smoothly without that uncomfortable sticky feeling.
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When using sunscreen, always read the label, follow the directions for use, and reapply frequently. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when you’re in the sun.
