Everything you need to know about sunscreen (Even in Winter)

Your sunscreen’s SPF (Sun Protection Factor) measures how well it protects your skin from sunburn. Cancer Council Australia recommends applying a broad spectrum, water-resistant, SPF30 or higher sunscreen applied at least 20 minutes before sun exposure. Oh, and don’t forget to reapply every two hours – even on overcast days.

The SPF is usually the first thing you look at when you buy sunscreen, but what else should you be looking for?

Buying a water-resistant sunscreen means you’re better protected when swimming, exercising or sweating. It’s important to note the word ‘resistant’ here – it’s not saying ‘waterproof’, so these sunscreens will need to be reapplied to remain effective.

Broad spectrum means that the sunscreen you’re using is protecting you from both UVA and UVB rays. “Sunscreens exist to reduce UV-related skin damage,” says dermatologist Dr Adam Sheridan.

“UVB and UVA both contribute to skin ageing and skin cancer, including melanoma. ‘Broad spectrum’ means both UVA and UVB are blocked, and both are important,” he adds.

“Sunscreen ingredients work in two ways, scattering and/or absorbing ultraviolet (UV) radiation to stop it reaching the skinAbsorbers (chemical) and reflectors (physical) just refer to what’s happening to the UV rays. The ‘absorbers’ absorb the UV, and the ‘reflectors’ reflect it," explains Heather Walker, Head of SunSmart at Cancer Council Victoria.

If you find a formula that works for you, it doesn’t really matter how it’s protecting you, she says.

“My advice is to try a lot of different formulas and find one you like, because you’ll be more likely to wear it.”

There’s no trick question here: just choose the one you like applying – and apply it liberally. Cancer Council recommends using at least a teaspoon of sunscreen (about 5mLs) for each limb. As long as you cover your skin thoroughly, the choice of application is up to you.

However, many people find it easier to apply the right amount with a cream, as opposed to an aerosol spray.

This is a big factor. The most effective sunscreen is one you’ll actually wear – so make sure you’re a fan of the smell, consistency and feel of your chosen brand and style.

You should wear sunscreen whenever the UV Index is three or above, or whenever you are spending extended periods outdoors. In many parts of Australia, the UV numbers are above three even during winter; they’re even higher in alpine regions, so if you’re a keen skier, you need to be extra careful.

“It’s a common misconception that the heat from the sun causes sunburn, and that this causes cancer, because you can often feel the heat from the sun and you can’t feel or see UV,” Heather explains.

Check the UV index at the Bureau of Meteorology, or download the free SunSmart app that not only shows you the index, but also indicates the times during the day you’ll need to be wearing protection. But really, it’s a good idea to get into the habit of applying sunscreen every day. 

Studies have shown that using sunscreen doesn’t stop you from topping up on vitamin D – so apply it liberally.

“In terms of vitamin D, you really don’t need very long outside to get your levels up,” Heather explains. “And the body doesn’t store vitamin D – it just breaks down any excess – so overexposing yourself to UV will just increase your risk of skin cancer, without actually helping your vitamin D status.

“Our advice in general is to speak to your GP about whether supplementation is appropriate if you are deficient in vitamin D.”

If, as the weather gets warmer, you’re taking a fresh look at your sunscreen stash, it’s worth checking that it’s in date, says Heather. “That can catch you out if you’ve had a big bottle of sunscreen in the cupboard for a while.

“They can go out of date, and that reduces their effectiveness. Plus, if they’re stored in a place that’s too warm, then over time they can separate, so check that it’s the right consistency, that it looks how it should look and that it’s in date.”

An AUST number indicates your chosen sunscreen is listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods. This means the ingredients used in the sunscreen meet the minimum requirements outlined by the Department of Health. If your selected brand doesn’t have an AUST number, it’s considered a cosmetic sunscreen – and it probably isn’t as effective in protecting you.

While we’re on the topic of healthy skin, if you’re an AIA Vitality member – the science-backed health and wellbeing program – you can receive 1000 AIA Vitality Points by completing a skin self-examination. To get started, select the ‘Get Points’ tab within the app.

Staff writers come from a range of backgrounds including health, wellbeing, music, tech, culture and the arts. They spend their time researching the latest data and trends in the health market to deliver up-to-date information, helping everyday Australians live healthier lives. This is general information only and is not intended as medical, health, nutritional or other advice. You should obtain professional advice from a medical or health practitioner in relation to your own personal circumstances. The information in this article is general information only and is not intended as medical, health, nutritional or other advice. You should obtain professional advice from a medical or health practitioner in relation to your own personal circumstances