Compare: Top 10 Best Sunscreens For The Summer

Are you gearing up for the summer? Don’t forget your sunscreens! But the main reminder here, is that you make sure you get an honest sunscreen that meets all its claims.

According to the recent tests of Consumer NZ, five out of ten sunscreens have failed to meet their SPF protection claims, and some even falsely marketing their products as “natural.” Two out of these five sunscreens have also failed to meet their broad-spectrum claims.

This is a dangerous practice of manufacturers as consumers may perceive that they’re getting maximum protection, but they’re actually not. Believing these false claims can lead to serious diseases like skin cancer. That’s why it’s crucial to get sunscreen that stays true to their claims.

Here are the top 10 honest sunscreens on the market that you should get for this summer.

Top 10 best sunscreens in NZ

Better get an honest sunscreen today, than be sorry later on. Take a look at the top 10 best sunscreens currently available on the market.

1. Cancer Society Everyday SPF50+

Cancer Society Everyday SPF50+ is formulated by the New Zealand Cancer Society. As expected from the makers of the product, this sunscreen is one of the best when it comes to protecting you from the harmful UV rays, which causes skin cancer. 

2. Cetaphil Sun Kids Liposomal Lotion SPF50+

Cetaphil is a dermatologist certified brand, so it’s no wonder that the Sun Kids Liposomal Lotion SPF50+ are in this list. It’s specifically formulated to protect kids’ delicate skin from prolonged sun exposure. It has nourishing agents to keep kids’ skin moisturised and hydrated.

3. Mecca Cosmetica To Save Face Superscreen SPF50+

Mecca Cosmetica To Save Face Superscreen SPF50+ is a facial sunscreen with matte finish. Although it’s formulated for everyday makeup wearers, it also works great for getaways under the sun. It yields best results when applied between the moisturiser and the foundation.

4. Skinnies Conquer with Manuka Oil Sports Sunscreen SPF50+

Skinnies Conquer with Manuka Oil Sports Sunscreen SPF50+ is perfect for Kiwis who are extreme water lovers! It’s certified reef safe as per the Hawaiian Sunscreen Standards, so you don’t have to worry about harming the environment while taking care of your skin. 

5. Nivea Sun Sensitive Protect SPF50

Nivea Sun Sensitive Protect SPF50 has a non-greasy formula made from Aloe Vera and Chamomile. As expected from a global skincare brand, it packs Vitamin E to moisturise and protect sensitive skins from sun damage.

6. SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial Defense SPF50

SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial Defense SPF50 keeps the youthful glow by protecting your skin against UVA and UVB rays. It has a lightweight composition, keeping your skin moisturised without the heavy and greasy feeling.

7. Medik8 Physical Sunscreen SPF50+ 

Medik8 Physical Sunscreen SPF50+ is a perfect sunscreen for Kiwis going vegan! It’s cruelty-free certified, meaning it’s not tested on animals. Thanks to its natural ingredients, it’s free from synthetic colour, paraben, alcohol, artificial fragrance, and phthalates.

8. Alpha-H Protection Plus Daily SPF50+

Alpha-H Protection Plus Daily SPF50+ is a sunscreen and moisturiser combo. It contains natural ingredients which hydrate the skin and keep it protected from free radical damage. Plus, it provides a matte finish, which looks natural to any skin colour.

9. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Invisible Fluid Facial Sunscreen SPF 50+

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Invisible Fluid Facial Sunscreen SPF 50+ has a non-comedogenic formula which prevents clogging of pores! It leaves a smooth and non-sticky finish which works perfectly under makeup.

10. Ultra Violette Clean Screen SPF30 Skinscreen

Ultra Violette Clean Screen SPF30 Skinscreen is perfect for acne-prone skin! It’s packed with 20% Zinc Oxide, which reduces inflammation due to sun exposure. It also has an organic green tea and cucumber, which bring extra nourishment for the skin.

Choosing the right sunscreen

Pick the right sunscreen this summer. Make sure to read the labels and learn more about these terms before purchasing the product. Here are some basics you need to know.

Broad-spectrum protection

Broad-spectrum protection indicates how the sunscreen keeps you safe from UVA and UVB rays. Almost every sunscreen has protection from UVB rays, which prevents sunburn. However, only a number of sunscreen on the market has protection against UVA rays. This is the main cause of skin cancer and premature ageing caused by exposure under the sun.

Only products that passed the tests can be labelled with broad-spectrum protection. Products that didn’t pass this test must get a warning that it only protects against sunburn, not against skin cancer and premature ageing.

Sun Protection Factor

Sun protection factor — more commonly known as SPF — is the level of protection it has against UVB rays. To ensure the right levels of protection, the sunscreen must be at least SPF15. Of course, the higher the number in the SPF, the higher the protection you get. 

Sunscreens with SPF lower than 15 usually protects you from sunburn only. It doesn’t protect you from skin cancer and skin ageing.

Water resistance

All sunscreens have at least some level of water resistance. However, note that no sunscreen is completely waterproof or sweatproof — it’s false marketing! Depending on the sunscreen, it can be anywhere from 40 minutes to 2 full hours. This should protect you from light sweating or drizzling. 

If you’re swimming or doing extreme sports, it’s best to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours. Lightly rub the excess sunscreen with a towel before putting an additional layer. This ensures you have the best results in avoiding sunburn and other skin illnesses.

Complete this year with your ultimate summer getaway!

Have you already picked the right sunscreen for you? All that’s left to do is to go to your ultimate summer vacation this holiday season! Snap some photos of your getaway and don’t forget to update your friends and family over social media. Get ready this summer with the right unlimited mobile plan for your needs.

Compare unlimited mobile plans using our free comparison tool, right here at CompareBear.