By We all know the importance of sun protection. Daily sunscreen application not only protects against sun damage and skin cancer caused by sun exposure but also serves an aesthetic purpose; protecting against premature ageing. Ultraviolet radiation from the sun triggers a higher rate of collagen breakdown, leading to sagging of the skin. Additionally, sun exposure causes pigmentation – like melasma and dark spots – in those with fair and dark skin alike.
In the past, inelegant formulations have been a deterrent to regular sunscreen application, with sunscreens often clogging pores and contributing to breakouts, sitting greasily on the skin, pairing poorly with makeup, or leaving a dreaded white cast. However, times have changed, with the sunscreens of today providing protection while sitting well on the skin.
Australian sunscreens are among the best in the world, with stringent requirements for what can be classed as sunscreen down under. In Australia, sunscreen is classified as a therapeutic good, with higher manufacturing requirements than anywhere else in the world. When selecting a sunscreen, opt for a ‘broad spectrum’ variety; this means it shields the skin from both UVA and UVB rays, offering thorough protection.
Typically far lighter than physical sunscreens, chemical sunscreens work by penetrating the skin and work by absorbing the sun’s rays before they reach the dermis and damage the skin. Chemical sunscreens use ingredients like avobenzone and homosalate to absorb UVA and UVB rays. However, a single chemical alone is typically not enough to protect your skin from both types of UV rays, with most broad spectrum sunscreens utilising compound formulas. Unlike physical iterations, chemical sunscreens need to be applied twenty minutes before sun exposure.
Table of Contents
The best chemical sunscreens in Australia in 2024
These are the best elegantly formulated Australian chemical sunscreens on the market.
1. Ultra Violette Supreme Screen SPF 50+
Price: $52AUD
Designed to be hydrating yet non-greasy, the Ultra Violette Supreme Screen SPF 50+ is a firm favourite. Straddling the line between sun care and skincare, this broad spectrum sunscreen contains vitamin C in the form of Kakadu plum, as well as dragosine plus, a peptide that shields the skin against UVA, UVB, and blue light. Formulated to have the consistency of a lightweight moisturiser, Ultra Violette Supreme Screen SPF 50+ is intended to sit well under makeup.
Type of sunscreen: chemical
Active ingredients: ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine, methylene bis-benzotriazolyl tetramethylbutylphenol
Water resistant: no
Does it contain oxybenzone? No
2. Mecca Max Screen Saver SPF30
Price: $28AUD
The Mecca Max Screen Saver SPF30 offers an elegant formula at a budget-friendly price. Designed for all skin types, including blemish-prone skin, the lightweight sunscreen is enriched with goji berry and chamomile extracts, as well as vitamin E and aloe vera. Ideal for use on its own or under makeup, it’s rapidly absorbed and has an invisible dry-touch finish.
Type of sunscreen: chemical
Active ingredients: 4-methylbenzylidene camphor, butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane, ethylhexyl triazone, octocrylene
Water resistant: no
Does it contain oxybenzone? No
3. Ultra Violette Queen Screen SPF 50+
Price: $52AUD
For those with drier skin, the Ultra Violette Queen Screen SPF 50+ is the way to go. A sunscreen with the consistency of a watery serum, it provides a slight dewy glow while still drying down on the skin and sitting well under makeup. Queen Screen is accompanied by a faint rose scent and contains vitamins B5, C, E, and F plus for skincare benefits.
Type of sunscreen: chemical
Active ingredients: bemotrizinol, bisoctrizole, ethylhexyl salicylate, phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid, bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine
Water resistant: no
Does it contain oxybenzone? No
4. We Are Feel Good Inc Good Morning SPF 50
Price: $34.95AUD
Formulated with skincare ingredients like tomato extract, carnosine, hyaluronic acid, jojoba oil, and squalane, the We Are Feel Good Inc Good Morning SPF 50 is designed to hydrate and moisturise the skin while providing broad spectrum sun protection. The formula is intended to feel like a facial lotion, with its consistency sitting somewhere between the Ultra Violette Supreme Screen and Queen Screen.
Type of sunscreen: chemical
Active ingredients: homosalate, octyl salicylate, octocrylene, butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane
Water resistant: no
Does it contain oxybenzone? No
Shop via We Are Feel Good Inc.
5. Bondi Sands Hydra UV Protect SPF 50+ Face Fluid
Price: $11.99AUD
A hydrating broad spectrum sunscreen, the Bondi Sands Hydra UV Protect SPF 50+ Face Fluid has a consistency slightly thicker than a serum. It is designed to sink into the skin with an invisible satin finish. It’s designed to be suitable for all skin types. The Bondi Sands Hydra UV Protect SPF 50+ Face Fluid is infused with algae extract which is intended to deepy hydrate the skin.
Type of sunscreen: chemical
Active ingredients: homosalate, octocrylene, butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane, ethylhexyl triazone, methylene bis-benzotriazolyl tetramethylbutylphenol, bemotrizonol
Water resistant: no
Does it contain oxybenzone? No
6. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Invisible Fluid Facial Sunscreen SPF 50+
Price: $37.95AUD
While technically a French sunscreen, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Invisible Fluid Facial Sunscreen SPF 50+ is a staple in Australia. Complying with our strict guidelines and sold in chemists and pharmacies around the country, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sunscreen SPF 50+ is a fragrance-free formula designed with sensitive skin in mind. The formula is non-comedogenic, meaning doesn’t clog the pores or exacerbate acne. Providing broad spectrum protection, this matte formula is designed to sink into the skin easily without leaving a white cast behind.
Type of sunscreen: chemical
Active ingredients: ethylhexyl salicylate, bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine, ethylhexyl triazone, butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane, methoxypropylamino cyclohexenylidene ethoxyethylcyanoacetate, diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate, drometrizole trisiloxane, terephthalylidene dicamphor sulfonic acid
Water resistant: no
Does it contain oxybenzone? No
7. Naked Sundays SPF50 Clear Glow Radiant Serum
Price: $36.95AUD
Enriched with squalane, kakadu plum, and tomato extract, the Naked Sundays SPF50 Clear Glow Radiant Serum is a completely clear formula with a satin finish. The inclusion of hydrating and antioxidant-rich ingredients provided added protection against environmental stressors and help plump the skin as the sunscreen protects.
Type of sunscreen: chemical
Active ingredients: butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane, homosalate, octocrylene, octyl salicylate
Water resistant: no
Does it contain oxybenzone? No
8. Mecca Cosmetica To Save Face SPF50+ Brightening Sun Serum
Price: $50AUD
For those who want a little more out of their sunscreen, the Mecca Cosmetica To Save Face SPF50+ Brightening Sun Serum is an apt choice. Blending suncare with skincare, it contains 3% niacinamide to smoothen fine lines and improve skin texture while the SPF50+ protects. It’s designed to have a thin yet creamy serum-like texture that blends into the skin easily and sits well under makeup.
Type of sunscreen: chemical
Active ingredients: bemotrizinol, butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane, ethylhexyl triazone, homosalate, methylene bis-benzotriazolyl tetramethylbutylphenol, octocrylene
Water resistant: no
Does it contain oxybenzone? No
9. AB Lab Dewy-C SPF50+ Facial Sun Milk
Price: $44AUD
Another skinscreen (skincare meets sunscreen) formula, the AB Lab Dewy-C SPF50+ Facial Sun Milk is a lightweight lotion-like formula that provides broad spectrum sun protection while working to brighten and even out skin tone with vitamin C and resveratrol. Designed as a hydrating formula with a luminous finish, it’s ideally suited for normal to dry skin types.
Type of sunscreen: chemical
Active ingredients: homosalate, octyl salicylate, butylmethoxydibenzoylmethane, bemotrizinol, ethylhexyltriazone, phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid
Water resistant: no
Does it contain oxybenzone?
10. Alpha-H Daily Essential Moisturiser SPF 50+
Price: $72AUD
Designed to hydrate and nourish the skin while providing broad-spectrum sun protection, the Alpha-H Daily Essential Moisturiser SPF 50+ is formulated with five high protection sun filters. It also contains pro-vitamin B, silica, and vitamin E which are designed to moisturise the skin and impact a dewy finish
Type of sunscreen: chemical
Active ingredients: homosalate, octocrylene, octyl salicylate, butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane, ethylhexyl triazone
Water resistant: no
Does it contain oxybenzone?
11. Mecca To Save Face SPF50+
Price: $46AUD
A popular formula with beauty editors and lovers alike, the Mecca To Save Face SPF50+ is a lightweight sunscreen that leaves a matte finish behind. In addition to sun protection, the formula includes pycnogenol which provides antioxidant protection while sodium PCA and vitamin E hydrate and moisturise the skin.
Type of sunscreen: chemical
Active ingredients: octocrylene, butyl methoxydibenzoylemethane, bemotrizinol, phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid
Water resistant: no
Does it contain oxybenzone? No
12. Dermalogica Clearing Defence SPF30
Price: $48AUD
A saving grace for those with oily, breakout-prone skin, the Dermalogica Clearing Defence SPF30 provides broad spectrum sun protection and mattifies the skin without causing breakouts. Tapioca helps absorb excess oil to prevent shine while willow bark extract aids in preventing and reducing acne.
Type of sunscreen: chemical
Active ingredients: homosalate, octocrylene, ethylhexyl salicylate, butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane
Water resistant: no
Does it contain oxybenzone? No
13. Ella Baché Active Face Great SPF50+ Lotion
Price: $58AUD
Designed with those who workout or sweat in mind, the Ella Baché Active Face Great SPF50+ Lotion is a water-resistant sunscreen that provides broad spectrum protection. Antioxidant-rich green tea and kakadu plum extracts provide protection against free radicals.
Type of sunscreen: chemical
Active ingredients: octyl methoxycinnamate, octocrylene, butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane, ethylhexyl triazone, bemotrizinol
Water resistant: yes (for 4 hours)
Does it contain oxybenzone? No
14. SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial Defense SPF50+
Price: $68AUD
An ultra-thin sunscreen with a dewy, satin finish, the SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial Defense SPF50+ works to nourish and hydrate the skin without clogging pores. Best suited to mature, dry, and normal skin types, it helps protect against premature ageing caused by sun exposure.
Type of sunscreen: chemical
Active ingredients: octyl methoxycinnamate, drometrizole trisiloxane, titanium dioxide, ecamsule, diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate, bemotrizinol
Water resistant: no
Does it contain oxybenzone? No
15. Alpha-H Dawn to Dusk SPF 50+ Serum
Price: $64.95AUD
Another sunscreen serum that boasts skincare benefits, the Alpha-H Dawn to Dusk SPF 50+ Serum combines broad spectrum sun protection with niacinamide, vitamin E, and aloe vera which work to support the skin barrier and soothe the skin.
Type of sunscreen: chemical
Active ingredients: homosalate, ethylhexyl salicylate, butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane, bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine, ethylhexyl triazone, phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid
Water resistant: no
Does it contain oxybenzone? No
16. Airyday Golden Glow SPF50+ Dreamscreen
Price: $51AUD
A sunscreen that caters to all skin types, the Airyday Golden Glow SPF50+ Dreamscreen is a sheer formula infused with vegan collagen, niacinamide, and vitamins C, E, and F. It lives up to its name with a dewy golden finish and is scented with champagne and peonies; a far cry from the ‘sunscreeny’ scents of yesteryear.
Type of sunscreen: chemical
Active ingredients: homosalate, octocrylene, butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane, octyl salicylate
Water resistant: yes (for 40 minutes)
Does it contain oxybenzone? No
17. Go-To Skincare Nifty Fifty SPF 50
Price: $49AUD
This hydrating sunscreen makes use of next-generation sunscreen filters to provide broad spectrum sun protection with a clear, invisible finish. The non-comedogenic formula works without clogging pores or stinging eyes, and doubles as a makeup primer.
Type of sunscreen: chemical
Active ingredients: diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate, ethylhexyl triazone, tris-biphenyl triazine, bemotrizinol
Water resistant: yes (for 40 minutes)
Does it contain oxybenzone? No
What is a broad spectrum sunscreen?
Broad spectrum sunscreens are those that protect the skin from both UVA and UVB rays emitted by the sun. To understand the difference between UVA and UVB rays, look at the last letter of each acronym.
- UVB refers to ‘ultraviolet B’: the B can be a stand in for ‘burning’, with these rays causing sunburn, redness, ageing, and skin cancer. These sun rays are shorter wavelength than UVA rays.
- UVA refers to ‘ultraviolet A’: think of the A as ‘ageing’. UVA rays are longer wavelength than UVB rays, with more of them able to reach the earth’s surface. UVA rays are present even on cloudy days when the sun isn’t visible — essentially, if there’s daylight, there are UVA rays present. UVA rays are what cause premature ageing.
Broad spectrum sunscreens contain chemical filters that block out both UVA and UVB rays. It’s important to look for broad spectrum sunscreen with a minimum Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30. All the sunscreens on this list provide broad spectrum sun protection.
How much sunscreen should I apply to my face?
It’s important to apply the right amount of sunscreen to ensure adequate protection against UVA and UVB rays. Sunscreen should be applied 20 minutes before sun exposure, with a minimum of one teaspoon applied to the face, neck, and ears.
It’s important to reapply sunscreen every two hours or after activities like swimming or sweating. Reapplying sunscreen over makeup can be made easier by using a sunscreen mist.
Sunscreen is just one factor of sun protection. Avoid prolonged high-risk sun exposure and wear protective clothing, hats, and eyewear when in the sun. When using sunscreen, always read the label and follow the directions for use, and be sure to reapply frequently (every two hours or following activities such as swimming and sweating).
Why you should trust Albert Review
Tanisha Angel is the editor of Albert Review, specialising in a wide range of lifestyle topics including skincare and beauty. For this article, she tested over thirty sunscreens, evaluating each formula based on its texture, feel on the skin, and finish. It’s important to note that due to legislative requirements set out by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Australian publications are no longer permitted to provide testimonials for sunscreens (as these are a TGA regulated product). This extends to personal reviews and thoughts surrounding the feeling and experience of applying these sunscreens.
However, rest assured all sunscreens on this list were selected for their ability to provide broad spectrum sun protection, as well as their comfortable feel on the skin and ability to be applied to dark skin without leaving a white cast. Sunscreens that felt thick or heavy and/or left a white cast behind a white cast were disqualified from inclusion.
FAQ
What is SPF?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, which is a measure of the length of time your skin is protected from UV radiation. An SPF15 sunscreen would protect you from UV radiation for 15 times as long as normal while an SPF30 sunscreen would protect you for 30 times as long, and so on. So, if your skin normally reddens or burns in 10 minutes, an SPF30 sunscreen would provide you with 300 minutes (5 hours) of protection.
What is the difference between SPF 30 and SPF50+?
While SPF50+ seems like it would offer substantially more protection than SPF30, the difference if marginal. SPF50+ sunscreens filter out 98% of UVB radiation while SPF30 filters out 96.7%. Both SPF30 and SPF50+ sunscreens need to be applied liberally and reapplied every 2 hours when directly exposed to the sun.
How much sunscreen should you apply?
To ensure adequate sun protection, you should apply 1tsp sunscreen to cover your face and neck.