4 Great Sunscreens (at Adore Beauty) Recommended by Our Favourite Skincare Experts
I’m the go-to guide gal and routine queen here at Adore Beauty. I have a background in media and communications, and over 3 years experience in the beauty industry.
When I’m not answering all of your burning questions, you can find me spruiking underrated products to my co-workers and trying to figure out what our best bloody mascara is.
In 2024, you know how important sunblock is to your skincare routine. Sun exposure can rapidly increase the risk of long-term health issues as well as speed up the process of photo-ageing.
The Australian sun is harsh so even with SPF prolonged high-risk sun exposure should be avoided and frequent re-application or use in accordance with directions is required for effective sun protection.
Sunscreens come in many different textures and types: sprays, lotions, creams, gels, and sticks.
The formula you choose may depend on your skin type, whether you wear makeup, or how you like to apply the product.
Because some sunscreens can cause irritation, allergies, and acne, it’s important to determine what ingredients your sunblock contains.
Side note: You can watch Michelle from Lab Muffin Beauty Science join us to answer all our questions on SPF in the video below.
Sunscreen can work in two ways: first, by reflecting or blocking light from the skin; and second, by absorbing ultraviolet energy and preventing it from entering the skin cells.
No sunscreen will give you 100% SPF protection, but products with SPF 30 and SPF 50+ can shield your skin from 96% to 98% of UVB (burning) rays.
We spoke to LeeAnne, a Trainer at Alpha-H about the sun and it's after effects: "There is no escaping the fact that unprotected UV exposure is by far the single most ageing thing we can do to our skin and causes visible negative change.
It degrades both Hyaluronic acid and Collagen production as well as directly stimulating the Melanocyte to produce (most often unevenly) pigment, resulting in hyper-pigmentation. Human skin is also an excellent record keeper and stores every moment of sun exposure to manifest at a later time."
Sunblock has an important impact on the appearance, health, and quality of your skin. For this reason, we’ve asked some dermatologists and skincare experts to recommend their favourite sunscreens.
These experts have recommended a range of high-quality broad-spectrum and non comedogenic sunscreens that work effectively without irritating your skin.
Find out more about keeping your skin protected from harmful UV rays in our Ultimate Guide to Sunscreen.
These sunscreen recommendations are based on scientific research and clinical experience, and aim to remove marketing jargon by focusing on ingredients and their effects.
This way, you can choose a sunscreen that will carefully protect your skin, because it’s too important to take for granted!
Check out the video below as our Senior Beauty Editor, Amy explains how to reapply sunscreen over makeup...
Now, Here Are the 4 Top Dermatologist-Recommended Sunscreens in Australia in 2024
2-in-1 Moisturiser and Sunscreen
A dual-action sunscreen, perfect for daily use. This sunblock is designed to deliver broad spectrum protection while lightly moisturising the skin, providing a matte finish. Pomegranate and Pine Bark Extract increase hydration and defend against free radicals. When discussing their products with us Alpha-H Trainer, LeeAnne explained that: "The inclusion of Enzogenol, a natural anti-oxidant obtained from NZ pine bark gives it a slight colour and provides a light blurring effect on the skin. Especially great for normal to dry skins as it contains natural emollient and antioxidant-rich Mango Seed Butter". This 2-in-1 moisturiser is also perfect for sensitive skin, as it helps reduce irritation and nasty flare-ups.
This sunscreen offers serious sun protection at an affordable price. While providing the highest level of sun protection, this sunscreen leaves a smooth, non-greasy finish that works extremely well under makeup. Hannah English reccomends this noncomedogenic formula for combination skin, as it's "Slightly mattifying but still glowy, looks and feels like nothing on the skin". This light, fluid formula is perfect for anyone who doesn’t want to feel as if they’re wearing sunscreen, but still wants advanced protection.
Matte-Finish Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin
A great choice for those that struggle with chemical sun filters. Ava Matthews from Ultra Violette reccomends this Zinc based sunscreen for those with sensitive, acne prone and "really oily" skin as Zinc is a "mattifying ingredient". This mineral/physical sunscreen is packed with 20% Zinc Oxide, which protects against sun damage and reduces inflammation. This lightweight sunscreen also soothes and balances with organic Green Tea and Cucumber. It sinks easily into the skin and layers well under makeup, without leaving any trace or white tint. An amazing cruelty-free and environmentally friendly sunscreen formula that won’t irritate problematic skin.
An elegant, lightweight facial sunscreen with solid UVA/UVB protection. Using cutting-edge technology, this sunblock contains a range of UVA/UVB filters, which offer broad-spectrum defense. Never heavy or uncomfortable, this sunblock layers well with other skincare and makeup, providing a natural satin finish. Ultra Facial Defense SPF 50 sinks in easily and won’t clog your pores. Scientist and sunscreen skinfuelcer Hannah English recommends this sunscreen for dry skin saying it has "A satin finish that's fresh and hydrating, and sets into the skin." This is a truly effective sunblock with excellent coverage, and it feels luxurious to apply.
- For more of Hannah English's SPF recommendations see her Beauty IQ on How to Choose a Sunscreen for Your Skin Type.
- Ava Matthews from Ultra Violette joins us to talk all things SPF on Beauty IQ Uncensored Episode 6.
Shameless plug: We've launched our very own Adore Beauty merchandise! Including some stunning cosmetics bags available in black and blush and made from durable PVC and vegan leather. Shop our cosmetic bags here.
Brand and product inclusions are at the sole discretion of Adore Beauty. We do not seek or accept payment from brands or individuals listed in our guides.
