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7 Best Australian Sunscreens for Maxed-Out Sun Protection
It makes sense that the best Australian sunscreens are also some of the world’s best sunscreens. After all, “Australia is one of the sunniest places on earth and has one of the highest rates of skin cancer,” says Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, MD, PhD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “As a result, the sunscreen industry there is highly developed, with strict regulations and high-performance standards to ensure protection.” And even if the sun doesn’t shine quite as brightly where you live as it does in the homeland of Nicole Kidman (who, by the way, has creamy skin that looks like it’s never encountered a single UVA or UVB ray), you may as well take advantage of the superior formulations from the land down under.
Our Top Australian Sunscreens
Listen: Skin cancer is a deadly yet preventable threat. And the best thing you can do to protect yourself from the disease is to take your sun-care routine seriously—just as seriously as the Aussies take theirs. Ahead, we’ve rounded up the Australian sunscreens dermatologists and Allure editors have nothing but sunny praise for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Best Chemical Face Sunscreen: Ultra Violette Supreme Screen SPF 50
Why we love it: An Allure editor favorite for sunscreen that goes above and beyond UV protection, this winning formula also has approval from the pros. “Ultra Violette Supreme Screen SPF 50 is a standout for daily use,” says Melanie Palm, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon in San Diego. “It combines broad-spectrum chemical UV filters with ingredients like glycerin, squalane, pentavitin, peptides, and niacinamide, which support skin hydration and barrier health.” Dr. Palm recommends the formula to patients who want a sunscreen that also functions as a lightweight moisturizer and makeup primer—with one caveat. “While this product has its benefits, the chemical filters may not be ideal for very sensitive or reactive skin types,” she cautions.
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
“Ok Australia, I see you. As a Korean sunscreen superfan, I’m not easily convinced any other country can beat their formulas, but Ultra Violette has me changing my tune. Supreme Screen SPF 50, in particular, has made its way into my regular rotation. It really packs a hydrating punch (the glow, you guys!!), rubs in almost instantly, and wears under makeup so elegantly. My skin looks noticeably brighter and more radiant when I wear the SPF alone, so sometimes I skip makeup all together. My only tiny gripe: I do wish you got a little more bang for your buck (sorry, K-beauty’s got you beat there!).” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
- Sunscreen type: chemical
- Key ingredients: avobenzone 3%, homosalate 7%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 8%, plant-based pentavitin, squalane
- Fragrance-free: no
Best Mineral Face Sunscreen: Ultra Violette Velvet Screen SPF 50
Ultra Violette
Velvet Screen SPF 50
Why we love it: Prefer mineral sun protection? “Ultra Violette Velvet Screen is a great option,” Dr. Palm says. “It uses zinc oxide to physically block UV rays and has a matte, soft-focus finish that works well for combination or oily skin.” Other dermatologist-approved perks: “This is alcohol- and fragrance-free, which makes it a gentler choice for everyday use,” Dr. Palm says. For those with dehydrated or dry skin, she warns that the matte finish may emphasize texture or fine lines—but there’s a simple fix for that. “I recommend applying a lightweight, hydrating moisturizer first,” she says. “Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, squalane, or glycerin to support the skin barrier and help the sunscreen glide on evenly.”
“Easily one of the best mineral sunscreens I have ever used. It turns out the Aussies really do make better sunscreen—this one glides on like a dream with zero white cast. It feels more like skincare than SPF, and gives my skin the prettiest, healthy-looking glow. I actually look forward to putting it on every morning, which is saying something.” —Angela Trakoshis, shopping market editor
- Sunscreen type: mineral
- Key ingredients: zinc oxide 22.75%, kakadu plum, plant-based pentavitin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Mineral Body Sunscreen: Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
Blue Lizard
Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
Why we love it: This Aussie formula will help even the most sensitive skin types have more fun—and less burn—in the sun. “Formulated for sensitive skin, this mineral-based SPF 50 sunscreen is made with soothing aloe vera,” says Dr. Camp. “It’s also free from potentially irritating parabens, phthalates, and fragrances.” Dr. Kazlouskaya is also on board with the SPF, which has a magic-trick-like bottle that turns blue when it’s exposed to UV rays. “This is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, and it’s safe for both sensitive and acne-prone skin,” she says.
“The MVP of my summers. This sunscreen can be used by everyone in my family: me with my dry skin, my daughters with their eczema-prone skin, and my husband with his extremely oily skin. It smooths over your body like a lotion, with some nice emollients and a ribbony feel‚ not like a typical chalky mineral sunscreen that you have to squeeze out of the bottle and rub into skin. Be warned: It will leave a white cast. That’s not something I care about, and honestly, it alerts me to spots I’ve missed on myself or my kids, but it could be a dealbreaker for some people. Something I haven’t loved is their rebrand—it’s had no impact on the product performance, of course! But it’s a bit stuffy-looking, and I preferred the playful and bright packaging of yore. The sunscreen is so good that I’ll simply have to live with it, though!” —Shanna Shipin, shopping director
- Sunscreen type: mineral
- Key ingredients: titanium dioxide 8%, zinc oxide 10%, 1,2-hexanediol, aloe barbadensis leaf juice powder
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Chemical Body Sunscreen: Ultra Violette Vibrant Screen SPF 50
Ultra Violette
Vibrant Screen SPF 50
Why we love it: Ultra Violette Vibrant Screen SPF 50 is technically made for the body, but the formula pulls double duty. “This water-resistant lotion is suitable for both face and body,” Dr. Kazlouskaya says. “It feels lightweight on the skin while offering high-level protection.” Made with soothing, hydrating ingredients like aloe vera and vitamin E, the sunscreen lotion has a luminous finish that gives the skin a summery, just-back-from-Bondi-beach glow. What’s more, the brand assures those with sensitive eyes that the sunscreen won’t cause that burning, teary sensation some other formulas cause.
“A good sunscreen is one that’s delightful to apply. This—with its lightweight, but hydrating, formula—is just that. It’s slightly tinted, so it doesn’t leave any sort of white cast on my complexion. As a person with dry skin, I like that this SPF is a bit oily, though it does mean it’s better on its own than layered under makeup: more of a bring-to-the-beach product rather than something for every day.” —Kara McGrath, content director
- Sunscreen type: chemical
- Key ingredients: avobenzone 3%, homosalate 10%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 8%, aloe vera, vitamin E
- Fragrance-free: no
Best Sunscreen Stick: Naked Sundays Clear Glow Sun Stick SPF 50
Naked Sundays
SPF 50 Clear Glow Sun Stick
Why we love it: Here’s a yummy fact: “This easily portable SPF 50 sunscreen stick is made with watermelon extract, which is rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and amino acids,” Dr. Camp says. “It helps minimize the appearance of fine lines and fights free radicals.” Dr. Fabi approves of the swipe-on format. “I love sticks because they are great for face applications, especially on the skin under the eye,” she says. The stick allows for ultra-targeted application, which minimizes the risk of sunscreen getting too close to the eyes and irritating them.
Tester feedback from senior director of audience development Lexi Herrick
“This product is the ultimate on-the-go lip oil for sunny days. It hydrates without being too sticky, and protects my lips from the harsh sun for everything from days at the lake to long hikes. I love the scent range as well as the different tint options. My favorite is the clear coconut scent, it’s like being transported to the beach instantly!” —Lexi Herrick, senior director of audience development
- Sunscreen type: chemical
- Key ingredients: avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene, watermelon extract
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Sunscreen Serum: Bondi Sands Sunny Drops SPF 60
Bondi Sands
Sunny Drops SPF 60 Face Serum
Why we love it: “Bondi Sands Sunny Drops SPF 60 is a well-formulated chemical sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection with a smooth, serum-like texture,” says Dr. Palm. “It uses a blend of UV filters, including avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene, and is infused with skin-friendly ingredients like glycerin, aloe vera, hibiscus extract, and vitamin E to support hydration and barrier health.” Because the formula is oil-free, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic, she describes it as a good option for daily use under makeup. “That said, I always remind patients that drop-in formats should be applied as a standalone sunscreen layer rather than mixed into other products, to ensure proper SPF coverage,” she notes. She also stresses that reapplication every two hours is key, especially when you’re in outdoor situations with maximum sun exposure.
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
“I love a sunscreen serum and the reason is in the name—an SPF that feels lightweight going onto my face will always earn top marks from me. Bondi Sands’ Sunny Drops are so silky and satisfying to apply, and the instant boost of hydration and weightless finish are the cherries on top. As you can see, my forehead is extra glowy post-application (the beauty of combo skin), so if I wear these alone, I might dab some pressed powder to dampen the shine—but hey, I’ll always prefer looking glowy over looking dull and flat.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
- Sunscreen type: chemical
- Key ingredients: avobenzone (3%), homosalate (12%), octisalate (5%), octocrylene (10%), Australian hibiscus, vitamin E
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Lip Treatment With SPF: Naked Sundays Go + Glow Lip Oil SPF 50
Naked Sundays
Glow + Go Lip Oil SPF 50
Why we love it: “Your lips are highly susceptible to skin cancer, and yet are often forgotten,” says Dr. Fabi. Enriched with SPF 50, “Naked Sundays Go + Glow Lip Oils are free from parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and are noncomedogenic,” she says. “They’re also made with candelilla wax, which creates a protective barrier on the skin, locking in moisture and providing a smooth, non-greasy texture.” Dr. Camp adds that the lip treatment is also infused with hydrating ingredients like raspberry seed oil and jojoba oil. Not to mention, it’s available in flavors like watermelon and salted caramel, which makes it more appealing yet. Just keep in mind that the treatment isn’t necessarily a panacea for all UV-related woes. “While this lip oil is a fun and glossy option, I wouldn’t recommend it as a primary SPF treatment for the lips,” Dr. Palm says. “Effective lip sunscreens need to provide both UV protection and long-lasting moisture, and I typically prefer more occlusive formulas that include ingredients like petrolatum, shea butter, or lanolin. This product may be suitable for touch-ups or layering, but it’s not my go-to for reliable, all-day lip protection.”
Tester feedback from senior director of audience development Lexi Herrick
“The Naked Sundays Clear Glow Stick is one of my favorite beauty accessories to take on the go. It’s lightweight, doesn’t melt in high temperatures, and glides on without having to get sticky sunscreen all over my hands.” —Lexi Herrick, senior director of audience development
- Sunscreen type: chemical
- Key ingredients: polybutene, isopropyl myristate, homosalate, octocrylene, watermelon extract, raspberry seed oil, tomato extract, jojoba oil
- Fragrance-free: no
Frequently Asked Questions
What sets Australian sunscreen apart?
In short, Australian sunscreen is often stronger than its global counterparts because of how strong the Australian sun shines. “Australia generally experiences higher levels of UV radiation compared to the US, especially in summer,” according to Sabrina G. Fabi, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic plastic surgeon in San Diego. “This is due to several factors, including Australia’s closer proximity to the equator, clearer atmospheric conditions, and the Earth’s elliptical orbit, which brings Australia closer to the sun during its summer months. With the harsh Australian sun, they need strong sunscreens that are going to work.”
Dr. Fabi also notes that Australian SPF is governed by the Therapeutic Goods Administration, which has strict rules surrounding formulas, ingredients, and amounts of ingredients, as well as strict labelling laws.
How are Australian sunscreens sold in the US different from those sold in Australia?
“Even if you’re buying the same brand and product name in the US, the ingredients may differ,” Dr. Kazlouskaya says. “This is because sunscreen ingredients are regulated by the FDA in the US, and far fewer UV filters are approved for use here compared to Australia.” Brendan Camp, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York, elaborates: “Part of the reason is [there are more] requirements needed to approve UV filters, which are classified as drugs.” As such, he urges patients to keep in mind that when purchasing Australian sunscreen from US retailers that the UV filters included in them are limited to those available in the US.
Meet the Experts
- Melanie Palm, MD, MBA, board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon at Art of Skin MD in San Diego, California
- Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, MD, PhD, owner of Dermatology Circle PLLC clinic in New York City
- Brendan Camp, MD, board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York and Long Island
- Sabrina G. Fabi, MD, double board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic plastic surgeon at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology in San Diego and co-founder of XOMD Skincare
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of the best Australian sunscreens, we considered each product’s performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, protection, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors — along with special consideration from dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
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