Sunscreens (194)

Stay sun safe with our range of quality sunscreens

Here at Healthylife, we take sun protection seriously. For this reason, we offer a huge selection of sunscreen products in a variety of formulas to suit the whole family. From lotions and creams to zinc-based and vegan varieties, rest assured there’s a sunscreen for everyone. Whether it’s a compact zinc stick you can pop into your handbag, a cost-efficient one-litre bottle, a handy spray, a pump pack or an easy-to-use roll-on for the kids, Healthylife is your one-stop sunscreen shop.

Which sunscreen is best?

The best sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or above, and is water-resistant. This type of sunscreen, when applied according to directions, can provide adequate protection against the harmful effects of the sun’s radiation, even during water activities or excessive sweating. 

It’s important to apply a generous amount evenly on all exposed skin 20 minutes before sun exposure and to reapply every two hours or more frequently if swimming or sweating. Remember, while cosmetic products like face moisturisers may offer some SPF protection, they should not replace specially formulated sunscreens.

How long does sunscreen last?

Sunscreen may provide effective protection for up to eight hours after a single application under ideal conditions. However, reapplication is recommended every two hours, especially after sweating, swimming, or towel drying. This helps to maintain optimal UV protection. For water activities or when sweating, water-resistant sunscreens are advised to ensure continued protection.

What does SPF in sunscreen stand for?

SPF stands for sun protection factor and measures how much UV radiation is needed to produce sunburn on skin protected by sunscreen relative to how much sun exposure would be required to burn unprotected skin. The higher the SPF, the greater the sun protection offered. For example, if your skin burns after 10 minutes of unprotected sun exposure, using an SPF30 sunscreen indicates it may take 30 times longer for your skin to burn.

Is sunscreen bad for you?

All sunscreen ingredients in Australia must be approved by the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration) and are considered to be safe and effective. No substantial evidence has been found to support the notion that sunscreen or its ingredients are harmful. 

Concerns about nanoparticles – tiny particles that are 0.000001 millimetres in size – have proven unfounded. Some sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium oxide contain nanoparticles to make the sunscreen less visible on the skin and easier to apply. Evidence has shown they do not penetrate the skin.

The Cancer Council recommends using sunscreen whenever the UV is three or above. Don’t forget that sunscreen expires and should be disposed of after its use-by date. 

Shop Healthylife’s extensive range today and ensure you always have good sunscreen at your fingertips.

Understanding sun safety

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. At Healthylife, we advocate for comprehensive sun protection. The Cancer Council suggests avoiding the sun during peak UV times and adopting a holistic approach to sun safety. This means slipping on protective clothing, slopping on SPF30+ sunscreen, slapping on a broad-brimmed hat, seeking shade, and sliding on sunglasses. 

Remember, skincare is essential to your health regimen, especially in Australia’s harsh climate. Regular checks for changes in your skin’s appearance are important for early detection and treatment of skin issues.

Need help navigating which sunscreen to choose? Talk to a naturopath to learn more about our range.