Q. How will Hydra provide intense hydration?
A. Our Hydra Suncare range is infused with ethically sourced algae for deep hydration lasting 24 hours after application.
Q. How do I apply this product?
A. Apply Hydra UV Protect SPF 50+ Face Gel liberally and evenly to all unprotected areas of your face 20 minutes before exposure to the sun.
Q. Can I wear this product under makeup?
A. Our Hydra UV Protect SPF 50+ Face Gel can be worn alone or under makeup! It’s the perfect addition to your skin routine.
Q. How is this a Gel when it looks like a lotion?
A. While the formula itself may look like a lotion because of its white colour, the texture of the formula is not ably smoother and more lightweight like a usual gel format.
Q. What makes Hydra UV Protect SPF 50+ Face Gel different from the Hydra UV Protect SPF 50+ Face Lotion?
A. Our Hydra UV Protect SPF 50+ Face Gel is a water-based sunscreen that features an airless pump for controlled application and is available in an ultra-lightweight gel formula that provides deep hydration. Our Hydra UV Protect SPF 50+ Facial Fluid is available in a drop applicator for ease of use and features an ultra-lightweight fluid formula that effortlessly glides onto skin, perfect for daily wear under makeup or on its own.
Q. How is this different to your fluid range?
A. While our Face Gel and Face Fluids are both lightweight and thin formulas, when applying to the skin you will feel a difference in consistency; our Hydra Face Fluid feels slightly milkier whereas the Hydra Face Gel feels smoother and waterier with bounce to the formula.
Q. Is this product oil free?
A. Yes, note Oil-free refers to products that do not contain natural and/or mineral oils.
Q. Is Hydra UV Protect SPF 50+ Face Gel water resistant?
A.Our Hydra Suncare face range is not water resistant. Our Hydra Suncare body range is water resistant for up to 4 hours, but we recommend reapplying every 2 hours or more often when sweating and after swimming, exercise or towel drying. If you’re after a water resistant face sunscreen, we recommend trying our Face SPF 50+ Everyday Sunscreen Lotion.
Q. What is broad spectrum sunscreen?
A. The term ‘Broad Spectrum’ is used when sunscreen offers both UVA and UVB protection: Ultraviolet A (UVA) is light that is around all day, year-round. Even when it's cloudy, UVA can penetrate the middle layer of the skin (dermis) which plays a major part in skin ageing and wrinkles. It can even penetrate through glass windows! Ultraviolet B (UVB) is light that is more prevalent in sunny climates and conditions, and UVB has been associated with burning of the outer layer of skin (epidermis) that can cause skin to burn and turn red. UVB has been strongly linked to some cancers.
Q. How often should I reapply?
A. Sunscreen should be applied liberally and evenly 15 - 20 minutes before sun exposure and should be reapplied every two hours, or more often when sweating and after swimming, exercise or towel drying. As sunscreen does wear off over the day, in addition to reapplying, ensure to bring a hat and sunglasses to protect your face along with something light to cover your skin if the weather is warm. Also try to stay in the shade as much as possible to protect yourself against the effects of sun exposure that can lead to skin cancer and melanoma.
Q. What is SPF?
A. SPF or ‘Sun Protection Factor’ is a rating that refers to a theoretical amount of time you can stay in the sun and be protected without getting burned, compared to unprotected skin. For example, SPF 50 theoretically allows you to stay in the sun with less risk of sunburn for fifty times longer than you would without sunscreen. But real life is not like a lab, and you still need to reapply your sunscreen every two hours, avoid direct sunlight as much as possible and to make sure that you're protected. Direct sun exposure can change the texture and elasticity in your skin, which can contribute to premature skin aging like wrinkles.
Q. How are Bondi Sands SPF products tested?
A. All of our products undergo rigorous testing processes to ensure they meet industry standards and regulations. We work closely with our manufacturer and testing partners on the pre-market compliance process to ensure all product claims are substantiated with robust testing and evidence, including validated SPF, broad spectrum, and water-resistant testing.
Q. What’s the difference between chemical and physical (mineral) sunscreens?
A. Chemical sunscreen works by sinking into the pores of the skin. It absorbs UVA and UVB and converts them to a small amount of heat. They are generally much lighter in texture, absorb easier and leave no white cast. The Bondi Sands SPF 50+ Face Sunscreen is an example of a chemical sunscreen. Physical (or mineral) sunscreen sits on top of the skin and creates a physical barrier, reflecting and scattering UVA and UVB rays. Physical sunscreens are formulated with ingredients like Zinc, which is why they can also be called mineral sunscreens. While some physical sunscreens can be thicker in texture and leave a white cast, Bondi Sands Sunny Daze has been formulated to be lightweight in texture with a tint to ensure it blends into the skin. It’s important to note that the tint is not a universal tint and may not be suitable for some skin tones. In this instance, the Bondi Sands SPF 50+ Face Sunscreen might be a better alternative.
Q. If I wear a sunscreen that has a rating of SPF 50, does it mean I'm fully protected from the sun?
A. In short, no. Remember that sunscreen is a ""screen"", not a ""block"" and will never block 100% UV radiation.
Q. Should SPF be worn daily?
A. Yes! Daily sunscreen application is recommended year round, as UVA and UVB radiation can penetrate cloud cover and cause cumulative skin damage even in cooler months. Applying sunscreen to the face should be a consistent part of a morning skincare routine. Broad-spectrum facial sunscreens protect against both UVA rays, which contribute to long-term skin damage, and UVB rays, which cause sunburn. Formulations that absorb quickly and leave an invisible finish allow for effective protection while being compatible with additional skincare or cosmetic products.
Q. Can chemical and physical sunscreens be worn under my makeup?
A. Absolutely! Our range of chemical and physical sunscreens have been specially formulated so that they are lightweight and suitable underneath makeup. Just remember, it should be applied as the last step in your skincare routine. Did you also know that the SPF in your foundation isn’t enough to protect your skin throughout the day? You should be applying 1 teaspoon of sunscreen for complete face protection. Don't forget your ears and neck, and remember to reapply throughout the day!
