The Great Australian Tradition: SPF30+
For the (non) risk takers.
I'm not very rebellious. When Mum smothered my freckled, pale self with sunscreen as a kid, I took it like a champ (with a slightly protruding bottom lip, mind you). As I grew, the tradition of covering myself head-to-toe in SPF30+ was fully embraced. After all, sunburn kinda' sucks.
Now in my late twenties, I understand the importance of this great Australian pastime, which goes beyond avoiding painful burns and anti-aging (though, I'll admit, they're pretty fantastic bonuses!). This is exactly why, this summer, I partnered with Cancer Council WA - to spread the word about how to protect ourselves from harmful UV rays and its devastating consequences. After all, using sunscreen, first and foremost, is about protecting life.
We're blessed with beautiful, sunny weather year-round in Australia, which means we get the luxury of making the most of our beautiful landscapes and coastlines — once a beach baby, always a beach baby — but I can't stress how truly vital it is to SLIP, SLOP, SLAP, SEEK, SLIDE. Not a day outside goes by where I don't wear sunscreen, so today I'm sharing with you my go-to SPF30+ products for my fellow non-risk takers.
1. For the Face
Sure, most of my daily foundations contain SPF15+, but that really doesn't cut it. I always choose to wear SPF50+ on my face, which has become a simple and rewarding addition to my morning beauty routine. The Avène Face Emulsion is a non-greasy, magnifying option and my favourite this season (that's saying something!). Coming in as a close second is the heroic Mecca Cosmetica To Save Face Superscreen.
2. For the Body
I'm not fussy when it comes to body lotions, so long as they provide ultimate protection and don't feel greasy or sticky. You'll find sunscreen stashed in every corner of our house and in our cars, 'cause you never know when you'll need a top-up. This summer I've gone through multiple pump bottles and tubes of the Cancer Council Active Dry Touch Sunscreen (it's actually amazing!), squeezed every tiny bit of product out of the Jurlique Sun Specialist Cream and tested the Natio Moisturising Sun Lotion (it's a great find, by the way).
I'd love to know, what are your hero SPF30+ products?
I'm wearing: Glassons pants, ASOS bikini top (on sale - over 50% off!) and baker boy cap, Quay sunglasses, Chila Bags, gold necklaces from Shopbop and Havaianas.
Photography by Sharleen King.