Experts on the differences between a budget and expensive sunscreen

Sunscreen comes in many forms and a huge range of prices.

So how do you decide what's best for you and how much you need to pay for it?

We asked two experts for their take.

Why wearing sunscreen is important, and the two main types

Cancer epidemiologist Anne Cust, who is the Chair of Cancer Council's National Skin Cancer Committee, says wearing sunscreen is "really important".

"Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world," Professor Cust says, withtwo out of three Australians diagnosed with a form of skin cancer in their lifetime.

"Sunscreen is one of our five pillars of sun protection."

Professor Cust also advises people to wear protective clothing, a hat and sunglasses, and to seek out shade to reduce their risk of skin cancer.

She says sunscreen is subject to "really strong regulations" under the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia to ensure safety, quality and efficacy.

Professor Cust says most people use chemical sunscreens — which work by absorbing UV radiation — as opposed to 'physical' ones.

Physical sunscreens or blockers reflect the UV,and scatter it away from the skin. An example of a physical blocker ingredient is zinc oxide.

Will spending more get me a better sunscreen?

Sunscreens are sold at a wide range of price points, but Professor Cust warns that "a higher price sunscreen doesn't mean it's a better sunscreen".

"It doesn't reflect the amount of protection you get."

Professor Cust says when buying a more expensive sunscreen "sometimes you're paying for the brand" and "sometimes it might sort of reflect the different formulations".

This could be a formulation that sits under make-up better or has a particular texture or consistency, she says.

Dermatologist Cara McDonald says, "The best sunscreen is the one you're going to wear."

Dr McDonald says the chemical composition of some chemical sunscreens means "they do tend to cost a bit more".

This is to "give you a really nice consistency even at very high SPF."

"So, you do actually get some quality for the increased cost with some brands," she says.

What should you look for in a sunscreen?

When looking for a sunscreen, Professor Cust says the sun protection factor (or SPF) is most important.

"It indicates how much protection it's giving you against ultraviolet radiation from the sun. We recommend SPF 50 or 50-plus," Professor Cust says.

She also recommends checking a sunscreen is labelled broad spectrum. This means it offers protection from both ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B rays. "Ideally", also look for a "water resistant" sunscreen.

Professor Cust says personal preferences are also a factor.

"I think as long as it's comfortable to wear, within your price point and fits those criteria, it's fine."

"Physical sunscreens, like mineral type sunscreens and zinc can be good if you're doing water sports and things because it might come off less easily."

Dr McDonald says, "Find one that you like to put on your skin … Beyond that the gains are quite small."

Sunscreen application tips

Dr McDonald says SPF testing "relies on having an adequate quantity of the product on you" which "most people don't use".

For instance, the adequate sunscreen amount for the face is about half a teaspoon, she says. "If you actually put it in a teaspoon, it's quite a lot."

Dr McDonald recommends double-coating sunscreen.

She compares it to painting a wall, which often looks "a bit patchy" after the first coat.

"By doing two layers, you tend to always get good coverage."

She says she would generally opt for a cream or lotion sunscreen.

With spray and stick-style sunscreens it can be difficult to apply the quantity you need for the best protection, she says. Although, she says, "They're handy to carry with you and good for top-ups."

Professor Cust says sprays are also "great for the scalp" as they're easier to apply.

"You can get powder-based ones which are good for topping up over makeup as well."

This is general information only. For detailed personal advice, you should see a qualified medical practitioner who knows your medical history.