by Metropol | December 17, 2025 8:33 am
Yes, we should be applying SPF 365 days a year, but selecting the right one can be an overwhelming experience amidst a sea of options. Staring at the shelf, one is bombarded with questions. SPF50 or 100? What’s the real difference? Mineral or Chemical? Why is the one I loved in Europe not stocked here? What does it all mean?
First things first, all primary sunscreen products sold in New Zealand are required by law to be independently tested and meet certain guidelines. Primary means that the primary purpose of that product is to protect from UV damage. Secondary sunscreens are products that serve a different purpose but offer SPF protection as an added bonus (think tinted moisturisers). New Zealand and Australia have some of the strictest guidelines in the world, which explains why the bottle you picked up in Europe isn’t on shelves here.
Now let’s talk composition. Physical, or mineral, sunscreen is designed to sit on top of skin and provide a physical barrier to the sun. If you’ve seen someone at the beach wearing fluorescent zinc, that’s a form of physical sunscreen. It tends to be a bit on the thicker side, which is great for sensitive skin because less can be absorbed through pores. The white cast left behind by some brands, however? Not so appealing.
Chemical sunscreen is what most people picture when they think of sunscreen. Easier to formulate, they contain chemical filters that absorb harmful UV rays and are available in a wide range of lightweight options.
If you’re outside this summer, whether bathing at Sumner Beach, walking one of the great Port Hills tracks, or just in the garden, remember your SPF.
Source URL: https://metropol.co.nz/understanding-spf/
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