At Bondi Sands, it’s safe to say we know a thing or two about the best sunscreen for the beach. Our brand was born under the Australian sun, and we developed our sun protection based on the world’s most famous beach.
Why your everyday SPF might not cut it at the beach
Every SPF has its time and place. But unfortunately, not all of them can withstand the harsher conditions and demands of the beach. A lot of everyday sunscreens aren’t water-resistant, meaning once you take a dip in the ocean (or even the moment you start to sweat), it doesn’t stay on your skin. So you’ll need to reapply a lot more often.
The UV reflecting off the water and sand also harshens the impact of the sun’s rays on your skin. That, paired with extended exposure time, means your sun protection has to work a whole lot harder.
What to look for in a beach sunscreen
When you’re shopping for a new sunscreen for the beach, there are a few key aspects to look out for:
- SPF level: You want to make sure your SPF is a minimum of 50. Cancer Council Australia recommends sunscreen that’s either 50 or 50+ in Sun Protection Factor (SPF).
- Broad spectrum: Look for this specific label on your sun creams. Broad spectrum means it protects you from both UVA and UVB rays.
- Water resistance: If you’re swimming, a water-resistant sunscreen is essential. Otherwise, you won’t be protected the moment you enter the water.
- Texture: This is entirely up to your preference. Do you prefer a lotion or an aerosol spray? Or perhaps you like a serum? No matter what you choose, make sure you’re applying it liberally.
What does "water resistant" actually mean?
“Water resistant” means that your sunscreen actually keeps its SPF protection for a set amount of time while you’re swimming or sweating. This could be for 30 minutes, an hour, two hours or even four hours, depending on the product. However, it’s recommended you reapply every time after swimming and/or every two hours.
How much sunscreen do you need at the beach (and how often)?
Don’t be afraid to be liberal with it. When you’re spending the day at the beach, applying enough sunscreen (and reapplying regularly) is key to getting the protection you need and expect from your SPF.
As a general guide, you’ll need around one teaspoon of sunscreen for each arm, leg, the front of your body and the back of your body, plus half a teaspoon for your face, neck and ears. For an average adult, this works out to around seven teaspoons (approximately 35mL) for one full-body application.
Apply sunscreen generously to clean, dry skin around 20 minutes before heading outdoors, so you can give it enough time to form an even layer before you’re exposed to the sun. Once you’re at the beach, reapply every two hours, or more frequently after swimming, sweating, towelling off or exercising. Water-resistant sunscreen can help maintain protection while you’re in the water, but no sunscreen is completely waterproof.
Remember, sunscreen works best as part of a broader sun protection routine. Seek shade where possible, wear protective clothing, a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, particularly during the middle of the day.
The Bondi Sands beach day line-up
Born under the Australian sun, we have beach day SPF covered. Try our SPF 50+ Everyday Body Sunscreen Lotion that stays up to 80 minutes water resistant. You can swim and sweat at ease. Plus, the 500mL size will keep you going all summer long, without running out.
While our body sunscreen is totally fine to use on your face, if you prefer something a little lighter or have sensitive skin, our Face SPF 50+ Everyday Sunscreen Lotion is non-comedogenic, which means it won’t clog your pores. Or if you prefer a little glow, we have a tinted version.
For quick, weightless top-ups throughout the day, our SPF 50+ Sunscreen Mist does the trick. And because your lips need protection from the sun too, be sure to finish your sunscreen routine with one of our Lip Balms with SPF 50+.
Beach sunscreen mistakes to avoid
Unfortunately, being sun smart isn’t as simple as putting on sunscreen when you rock up at the beach. There are a few key mistakes to avoid if you want to be as safe as possible:
- Applying sunscreen while exposed to the sun: This is a big no-no. You need to apply it at least 20 minutes before sun exposure so it has enough time to kick in before going outside. Pop it on at home before heading to the beach.
- Using too little product: You should be using one teaspoon of lotion per body part (e.g. one teaspoon for each arm, leg, stomach and back).
- Forgetting exposed areas: Your hands, feet, the back of your ears, scalp and lips are all exposed to the sun while you’re outdoors. Missing these spots can lead to a nasty burn.
- Skipping reapplication: Whether it’s after swimming, sweating, or being out in the sun for extended periods of time, you need to reapply every two hours if you want to be sun safe.
FAQ
What SPF should I use at the beach?
It’s best to use a water-resistant sunscreen when you’re at the beach, since sweating and swimming can lead to regular sunscreen coming off easily, leaving you unprotected.
How often should I reapply sunscreen at the beach?
More often than you think. It’s recommended that you reapply every two hours and after swimming, even if your sunscreen is water resistant.
Is water resistant sunscreen enough for swimming?
No sunscreen is 100 per cent waterproof. Water-resistant sunscreens can maintain their Sun Protection Factor during swimming, but it’s always best to read the bottle and reapply often.
Can I use spray sunscreen at the beach?
Yes! Spray sunscreen is perfectly fine to use at the beach as long as you apply it liberally and rub it into your skin. It’s also best to use a water-resistant spray sunscreen for maximum protection.
