What's the difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50?

SPF 30 blocks ~97% of UVB. SPF 50 blocks ~98%. Marginal difference at the top of the SPF range. The bigger variable is application thickness — most users apply 25%–50% of the recommended amount, dramatically reducing actual protection.

Mineral or chemical sunscreen — which is better?

Both work. Mineral (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) is preferred for sensitive skin, post-procedure use, and pregnancy. Modern chemical filters (especially the newer EU-approved ones like uvinul A plus and tinosorb S) offer broader-spectrum protection in lighter, more cosmetically elegant textures.

Do I need to reapply SPF if I'm indoors?

Generally no. UV through windows is mostly UVA (lower-energy than UVB) and most modern SPF maintains its activity for 2+ hours of indoor wear. Reapply every 2 hours when outdoors or near a window for prolonged periods.

Yes. Decades of clinical and population research support daily SPF use. Modern formulations are tolerant, photostable, and well-tested. The risk of not using SPF (skin cancer, photoageing) substantially outweighs any theoretical risk of daily use.

SPF actives in skincare.

Sunscreen actives in Australian-available SPF products fall into two categories. Mineral filters (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) sit on the surface of skin and physically scatter UV radiation. Chemical filters (avobenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene, plus newer-generation filters like uvinul A plus, tinosorb S, mexoryl SX/XL) absorb UV radiation and convert it to heat. Australia's TGA regulates SPF actives differently to the US FDA — many advanced filters available in AU/EU are not yet approved in the US.

What it does

Reflects, scatters, or absorbs UVA and UVB radiation before it can damage DNA in skin cells. Daily SPF is the single most evidence-backed anti-ageing intervention available. Reduces risk of skin cancer, photoageing, and pigmentation disorders.

The evidence

Overwhelming. SPF use is the foundation of evidence-based skincare. The Australian Cancer Council and TGA have decades of research support.

Who should use it

Everyone, every day, regardless of weather. SPF use from childhood onwards is the standard public health recommendation in Australia. No contraindications. Mineral filters are preferred during pregnancy for sensitivity considerations.

What it pairs with

Vitamin C (boosts SPF's photoprotective effect). Antioxidants generally (defend against free radicals SPF can't fully block). Apply SPF as the final step of the AM routine. Reapply every 2 hours of sun exposure.

What to buy in Australia

Ultra Violette Queen Screen SPF 50+ — AU$45, the AU-developed editorial favourite. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Invisible Fluid SPF 50+ — AU$35, the pharmacy benchmark. Standard Procedure Tinted SPF — AU$45, the AU-made tinted-with-active-load alternative.

Frequently asked questions.

What's the difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50?: SPF 30 blocks ~97% of UVB. SPF 50 blocks ~98%. Marginal difference at the top of the SPF range. The bigger variable is application thickness — most users apply 25%–50% of the recommended amount, dramatically reducing actual protection.
Mineral or chemical sunscreen — which is better?: Both work. Mineral (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) is preferred for sensitive skin, post-procedure use, and pregnancy. Modern chemical filters (especially the newer EU-approved ones like uvinul A plus and tinosorb S) offer broader-spectrum protection in lighter, more cosmetically elegant textures.
Do I need to reapply SPF if I'm indoors?: Generally no. UV through windows is mostly UVA (lower-energy than UVB) and most modern SPF maintains its activity for 2+ hours of indoor wear. Reapply every 2 hours when outdoors or near a window for prolonged periods.
Is daily SPF safe?: Yes. Decades of clinical and population research support daily SPF use. Modern formulations are tolerant, photostable, and well-tested. The risk of not using SPF (skin cancer, photoageing) substantially outweighs any theoretical risk of daily use.