Putting on sunscreen will save your skin from harmful UV rays. It is more than a beauty product; hence, skipping to apply it will make you regret it as you age. Many people don't realize the importance of sunscreen until it's too late, like when sunspots appear. Sunlight, as a good source of vitamins, is a fact, but too much exposure can cause skin cancer.
Thanks to many beauty gurus who are introducing sunscreens in the market. The formulas have been tested to recognize which is right for every skin type. We then listed the best sunscreen in New Zealand today; surely, there's a product most suitable for your skin type.
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Lloyd Kelly Miralles chevron_right
Table of Contents
10 Best Sunscreens in New Zealand 2024 | Top Reviews
Why It's Our Top Pick
Frankie made a high-quality sunblock that offers a natural defense against UV rays. Despite its light consistency, the sunscreen is effective enough to thwart the effects of UVA and UVB. It is enriched with kawakawa and calendula, which are primarily responsible for preparing your skin beach for this broad spectrum. Last but not least, it is dermatologically tested for individuals suffering from eczema and sensitive skin.
Overview
UV protection is enhanced by a sunscreen made from natural ingredients. Below, take a look at Frankie's most recent SPF40 sunblock!
Product Specs
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF): SPF40
- Skin Type: Sensitive skin
- Formulation: 100% natural
Key Ingredients
This natural sunscreen is gentle on the skin. Calendula, an added ingredient, reduces cancer risk due to its anti-inflammatory properties. While the so-called kawakawa herb in New Zealand, a mild sunscreen ingredient, has healing properties that make it better for eczema. It also holds zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which secures lasting effects even under water.
Effectiveness
Frankie highlights a high level of sun protection - thanks to the added active ingredients. When applied, the skin feels smoother and softer. It can also be your go-to sunscreen during a beach vacation.
Overview
Your ticket to look good under the sun is tinted sunscreen! Therefore, a BB cream and UV protection in one tube were formulated by Skinnies.
Product Specs
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF): SPF30
- Skin Type: Sensitive skin
- Formulation: Tinted
Key Ingredients
This tinted sunscreen, which contains active ingredients such as oxybenzone, bemotrizinol, avobenzone, and octocrylene, can provide all-day sun protection. It is also infused with vitamins and antioxidants that help repair dry skin and make it look healthier. It does not contain alcohol, paraben, or a harsh fragrance on the skin. Additionally, Skinnies is certified as a vegan-friendly brand.
Effectiveness
You should apply a pea-sized amount of sunscreen to get a light tint on your face. Besides that, its hydrating properties can restore healthier and more beautiful skin in the long run.
Overview
Say goodbye to oily sunscreens with Clinique! It is mineral-based and provides excellent UVA and UVB protection.
Product Specs
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF): SPF50
- Skin Type: Dry, oily, and sensitive skin
- Formulation: 100% mineral
Key Ingredients
The invisible shield technology by Clinique makes the sunscreen more comfortable to wear, which works by reducing visibility. The sunscreen's creamy texture, which contributes to the skin's ability to remain moisturized, is primarily due to dimethicone, a safe cosmetic ingredient. Clinique added Butylene Glycol, which has anti-aging properties and can alleviate dry skin.
Effectiveness
This face sunscreen is ultra-lightweight, hence supplies invisible sun protection. It's suitable for all skin tones and doesn't irritate the eye area because iron oxide eliminates sunscreen odor and won't irritate the skin!
Overview
Do you have overly sensitive skin? We Are Feel Good Inc. has created a high-SPF body and face lotion for you!
Product Specs
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF): SPF50+
- Skin Type: Sensitive skin
- Formulation: Fragrance-free
Key Ingredients
Although the sun's heat can break down the skin barrier, this nourishing sunscreen lotion can help. Avobenzone and Ethylhexyl triazone, which protect against UVA and UVB, respectively, are excellent sunscreen ingredients. This lotion's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can soothe skin while promising a non-greasy finish. Lastly, glycerin is always present in sunscreens to provide general skin care and octocrylene for oil control.
Overview
With a spray-ready formula made by Avene, no more worries about a white streak finish. It doesn't make the skin greasy and is easy to absorb.
Product Specs
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF): SPF50+
- Skin Type: Sensitive skin
- Formulation: SunSitive Protection
Key Ingredients
SunSitive Protection has four filter systems that stop UV rays from penetrating the skin. Active ingredients, such as pretocopheryl, antioxidants, and pro-vitamin E, also aid in the renewal of skin cells by creating more barriers from sun damage. The formulation is completed by hydrating and soothing thermal spring water. It doesn't contain harsh chemicals and hence won't trigger skin allergies.
Effectiveness
The sunscreen spray won't clog pores and will leave your skin matte. Instead of cream formulations, they can be applied to the skin without a white cast. Additionally, it reduces sunspots and signs of skin aging.
Overview
Invest in sunscreen to keep your face hydrated and fully protected from sun spots. Look no further than Coola's Mineral Sun Silk Face Sunscreen for a more natural glow!
Product Specs
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF): SPF30
- Skin Type: Normal skin
- Formulation: 70% organic
Key Ingredients
This best face sunscreen is enriched with non-nano minerals, mitigating UVA and UVB effects. It is an organic cream made of chamomile extract and a shea scent resulting in a silky skin finish. Coola came up with the full-spectrum 360 complex technology to protect skin not only from sun damage but also from the effects of pollution. Moreover, it is plant-based, including jasmine and sacred lotus in the formula, illuminating the skin.
Effectiveness
Coola's Mineral Sun Silk Face Sunscreen emits dual skin protection and hydration benefits. Apply sunscreen daily to your face and neck for a more radiant appearance. Additionally, it is beach-friendly that will prevent skin from getting sunburned.
Overview
Children are more susceptible to sun damage. Protect those delicate skin surfaces with the Pure Sunscreen Lotion from the Cancer Society.
Product Specs
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF): SPF50
- Skin Type: Delicate skin
- Formulation: Dry-touch
Key Ingredients
The Cancer Society uses no harmful ingredients making the formula safe for Kiwi infants. Aloe vera, chamomile extract, camphor, and glycerin work together to hydrate and soothe the baby's skin. It is non-irritating and contains antioxidants and vitamin E to repair sun damage to the skin. Homosalate, octocrylene, and Ethylhexyl Triazone, which provide extra protection against sunlight, are additional active ingredients.
Effectiveness
The brand advocates helping citizens of New Zealand battling against cancer with every purchase. It is a good sunscreen that leaves skin feeling soft and lasts four hours in water.
Overview
Today's sunscreens are dry-powdered with Brush On Block. Thanks to the added self-dispensing brush for effortless application, it blends well with makeup and has an invisible finish!
Product Specs
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF): SPF30
- Skin Type: Sensitive skin
- Formulation: Dry-powdered
Key Ingredients
Since it does not contain oxybenzone or octinoxate, this mineral sunscreen is suitable for use at the beach. It has fewer active ingredients than other sunblocks, but it contains a lot of titanium dioxide and zion dioxide, effectively protecting the skin during the daytime. Brush On Block likewise uses plant extracts like chamomile, jojoba seed, green tea leaf, and glycerin to guarantee a smoother finish that is perfect for highly sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Effectiveness
The powder sunscreen is capable of daily sun protection. There are no gender rules in wearing such non-greasy and non-irritating sunblock. It can even conceal bald spots and is sweat-resistant.
Overview
For greasy skin, a facial sunscreen containing airlicium is highly recommended. La Roche-Posay's Anthelios XL is your best bet for getting an oil-free finish and sun protection at the same time.
Product Specs
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF): SPF50+
- Skin Type: Oily and sensitive skin
- Formulation: Airlicium
Key Ingredients
One type of molecule that can melt all sources of oil is airlicium. Consequently, the sunscreen will remain white-free and matte throughout the day. The brand uses a filtering technology that protects the skin against the sun, pollution, and infrared rays. Another element is glycerin, which moisturizes the skin for a soft feel after application.
Effectiveness
This is non-comedogenic, making it suitable for sensitive skin. You'll be pleased with the results of using broad-spectrum protection to combat intense sunlight. In addition, it comes in the best packaging and features a pump for more efficient use.
Overview
Organic sunscreen is best for your normal, oily, and sensitive skin. Skincare brands like Coola know what works for healthier skin with their added ingredients.
Product Specs
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF): SPF30
- Skin Type: All skin types
- Formulation: Unscented and tinted
Key Ingredients
Coola made a mineral sunscreen out of natural ingredients to eliminate the bad effects of direct sunlight. Primrose extract, omega-3 fatty acids, flax seed oils, shea butter, and linolenic acid were added to help retain moisture and elasticity in the skin. In addition, they combined plankton extract and antioxidants to restore the skin barrier for adequate sun protection. The sunscreen also has a fragrance-free tint - thanks to the addition of rosehip oil.
Effectiveness
Coola Unscented Mineral Organic Sunscreen is, without a doubt, the best sunscreen for controlling oil all day long. It leaves the face smooth and velvety, with a matte complexion and without a white cast.
What Is Sunscreen?
Cream, gel, powder, and liquid spray forms of sunscreen are available in New Zealand. It is defined as a sun protector infused with FDA-approved ingredients, such as zinc oxide and titanium oxide, that will combat the effects of UV rays. Whether indoors or outdoors, applying sunscreen to keep your skin healthy, moisturize, and help avoid dark spots is essential.
How Does Sunscreen Work?
The skin is still subject to sun damage, whether sunny or raining outside. A sunblock formula is made of active ingredients, both organic and inorganic, that aim to protect the skin from UVA and UVB rays. It has two types - mineral and chemical sunscreens.
- Mineral Sunscreen
This kind of sunscreen contains inorganic UV filters that sit on the epidermis rather than being absorbed by the skin. It's less likely to irritate the skin, clog pores, or cause redness. It works by blocking the damaging effects of sun exposure. The cosmetic ingredients used are FDA-certified, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which make them safe for sensitive skin.
Mineral sunscreens, on the other hand, can leave a white cast on the skin and won't last very long in the water.
- Chemical Sunscreen
Avobenzone, octinoxate, and octocrylene are more active ingredients in chemical sunscreens. UV rays are better absorbed by these, which turn into heat and escape the body afterward. They are easier to apply to the skin; they must be twenty minutes before sun exposure. The chemicals used to make it unsuitable for oily and sensitive skin. It might cause irritation and redness and also clog pores.
What Is SPF?
The term "SPF" refers to the sun protection factor. This is about how much protection a sunblock can offer. For instance, if a sunscreen had an SPF of 30, it would supply 30 times more protection than without sunblock. It is then safe to say that a sunscreen with a higher broad spectrum brings more protection from sun rays.
It is also crucial to understand the two radiations the sun emits - UVA and UVB, to choose the right SPF. The choice of SPF has nothing to do with the skin type. In addition, SPF does not indicate how long you should use sunscreen because, for best results, all formulas require reapplication every two hours.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Sunscreen
When you first start using sunscreen, deciding which formula is most pleasing for your skin type can be hard. You'll also come across several brands making complex claims about the product, which might confuse you. No worries, here is a rundown of factors you need to consider when looking for sunscreen in New Zealand:
Find a sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection.
Sunscreen can defend the skin from UVA and UVB rays. Thus, it is essential to consider the SPF rating to receive the right amount of protection for your skin against sunlight. Sunblocks with a higher SPF can provide increased UV safety.
Opt for a sunscreen that is appropriate for your skin type.
Mineral sunscreens, mostly fragrance-free, are preferable for people with sensitive skin because they reduce the risk of irritation. While chemical sunscreens are best to wear over or under makeup as it seldom causes a white cast. Gel-based sunblock will work well for oily and blemish-prone skin, while for dry skin can go for cream formulas. Read sunscreen reviews to confirm which ones are best for your skin type.
Do some research on the sunscreen's ingredients.
Every ingredient that goes into sunscreen plays a vital role in protecting your skin. Point out components that aren't necessary for your needs.
Do not buy a sunscreen that offers lower SPF.
An effective sunscreen has at least 30 SPF. A rating below that may not guarantee complete
sun damage coverage. It is possible that products with a higher SPF cost less.
Best Sunscreens Brands in New Zealand
Several sunscreen brands are available in New Zealand, and most suitable for you will depend on your preferences and skin type. Here are some popular and well-reviewed options:
Skinnies
This brand offers a range of sunscreens free of water, preservatives, and emulsifiers, making them ideal for sensitive skin. Their sunscreen is also vegan and environmentally friendly.
Oasis Beauty
Oasis Beauty is a New Zealand brand that offers a range of sunscreen products, including tinted options and a sunscreen specifically designed for the face. They use natural and organic ingredients, and their products are cruelty-free.
Neutrogena
Neutrogena is a well-known brand that offers a range of sunscreens with various levels of SPF. They use Helioplex technology in their products, which provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.
Invisible Zinc
Invisible Zinc offers a range of sunscreens that contain non-nano zinc oxide, which provides physical protection against the sun's harmful rays. They have options for sensitive skin and tinted formulas.
Cancer Society
The Cancer Society of New Zealand offers a range of sunscreens designed to protect against UVA and UVB rays. Their products are affordable and widely available in New Zealand.
Always choose a sunscreen with a high SPF (at least 30) and reapply regularly, especially if you are swimming or sweating.
Where to buy Sunscreens in New Zealand?
You can buy sunscreens in New Zealand from a variety of places. Here are some common options:
- Supermarkets: Many supermarkets in New Zealand carry a range of sunscreen products. You can find them in the personal care section or near the pharmacy.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacies in New Zealand also carry a range of sunscreen products, and you can often get advice from a pharmacist on which product would be best for your skin type.
- Department stores: Department stores in New Zealand often have a beauty section that includes a range of sunscreen products.
- Outdoor and sporting goods stores: Stores specializing in outdoor and sporting goods, such as Hunting & Fishing or Kathmandu, often carry sunscreens specifically designed for outdoor activities.
- Online retailers: Many retailers in New Zealand, such as HealthPost and iHerb, offer a range of sunscreen products that can be delivered to your doorstep.
Always choose a reputable retailer when buying sunscreen, and check the expiration date before purchasing.
Sunscreens Price Range in New Zealand
The price range of sunscreens in New Zealand can vary depending on the product's brand, type, and size. Here is a rough idea of the price range for different types of sunscreens in New Zealand:
- Everyday sunscreen lotion or cream: $10 to $25 for a 100ml bottle.
- Sports sunscreen or water-resistant sunscreen: $15 to $30 for a 100ml bottle.
- Children's sunscreen: $10 to $25 for a 100ml bottle.
- Facial sunscreen: $15 to $35 for a 50ml bottle.
- Tinted sunscreen: $25 to $45 for a 50ml bottle.
- Natural or organic sunscreen: $20 to $45 for a 100ml bottle.
It's important to note that the price of sunscreen can also depend on the SPF rating and any additional features, such as being vegan or cruelty-free. Remember to choose a sunscreen with a high SPF rating (at least SPF 30) and reapply regularly for optimal protection.
Conclusion
An outdoor lifestyle can make you look older and have dark spots. Given the way of life in New Zealand, purchasing sunscreen there is a smart move. It has all the active ingredients that protect the skin from UV rays and make it look healthier and more radiant. Based on previous sunscreen reviews, you can now select a product that is best for you. And do not hesitate to read the buying guide; we would gladly help you land the right purchase.