As the weather warms up, and we are spending more time outdoors, we need to remember to check the dates on our old sunscreens and replenish them for the season. If you are already spending more time playing in the sun, make sure that you have adequately stocked up on high SPF sunscreens, wear protective SPF clothing and most importantly reapply your sunscreens frequently (at least every 80 minutes). Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen Tinted Face SPF 50 is a wonderful tinted sunscreen for the face that is absolutely worthy of your consideration, and it is one of the most-reached-for by my family during the warmer months of the year.
Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen Tinted Face SPF 50 ($11.99-$14.99 for 3 oz. from Australian Gold, Walgreens, Ulta, and Target): This tinted mineral sunscreen for the face boasts a subtle tint, a silky smooth texture and consistency, and offers an SPF 50 for excellent protection. It is water resistant for up to 80 minutes, but I tend to reapply it every 45 minutes, when I am out playing in the sun, to ensure that I remain protected.
According to Australian Gold,
The Australian Gold Botanical SPF 50 Tinted Face Mineral Lotion is more than just powerful sun protection - it's gentle care for your skin. This non-chemical sunscreen lotion delivers a refreshingly luxurious, powdery clean feel, while the subtle tint seamlessly blends into any skin tone yet washes away with water. Specially designed for sensitive facial skin, this lotion won't clog pores and is fragrance free. Rich in vitamins and antioxidants from native Australian botanical ingredients, it allows you to enjoy the sun your way, protected from both UVA and UVB rays, and water resistant for up to 80 minutes. Discover the non-greasy, non-sticky feel of the Australian Gold Botanical Line and experience worry-free days in the sun!
Features:
Mineral Sunscreen: Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide provide a non-chemical sun protection option, with a powder-like matte finish that¿s never greasy
Australian Botanicals: Kakadu Plum, Eucalyptus and Red Algae form a unique combination of antioxidant rich botanicals
Eco Conscious Formulations: Designed to be Oxybenzone Free, Paraben Free, Phthalate Free, PABA Free, Petrolatum Free, SLS (Sulfate) Free, Dye Free and Oil Free. Hypoallergenic Dermatologist and Pediatrician Tested. Not tested on animals
Fragrance Free for use on even the most delicate skin
Directions: Apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposures. Reapply after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating or immediately after towel drying, at least every 2 hours.
As Labor Day approaches, and summer gives way to fall, we have a bit more time to enjoy the care-free days of season. If you are planning on spending the holiday playing in the sun and barbecuing with family and friends, make sure that you have adequately stocked up on high SPF sunscreens, wear protective SPF clothing and perhaps even have some bug spray on hand. I have selected a few of my current favorite products that are going into my beach bag for the upcoming holiday weekend.
Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen Tinted Face SPF 50 ($13.99 for 3 oz. from Australian Gold, Walgreens, Ulta, and Target): This tinted mineral sunscreen for the face boasts a subtle tint, a silky smooth texture and consistency, and offers an SPF 50 for excellent protection. It is water resistant for up to 80 minutes, but I reapply it every 45 minutes to ensure that I remain protected.
According to Australian Gold,
The Australian Gold Botanical SPF 50 Tinted Face Mineral Lotion is more than just powerful sun protection - it's gentle care for your skin. This non-chemical sunscreen lotion delivers a refreshingly luxurious, powdery clean feel, while the subtle tint seamlessly blends into any skin tone yet washes away with water. Specially designed for sensitive facial skin, this lotion won't clog pores and is fragrance free. Rich in vitamins and antioxidants from native Australian botanical ingredients, it allows you to enjoy the sun your way, protected from both UVA and UVB rays, and water resistant for up to 80 minutes. Discover the non-greasy, non-sticky feel of the Australian Gold Botanical Line and experience worry-free days in the sun!
Features:
Mineral Sunscreen: Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide provide a non-chemical sun protection option, with a powder-like matte finish that¿s never greasy
Australian Botanicals: Kakadu Plum, Eucalyptus and Red Algae form a unique combination of antioxidant rich botanicals
Eco Conscious Formulations: Designed to be Oxybenzone Free, Paraben Free, Phthalate Free, PABA Free, Petrolatum Free, SLS (Sulfate) Free, Dye Free and Oil Free. Hypoallergenic Dermatologist and Pediatrician Tested. Not tested on animals
Fragrance Free for use on even the most delicate skin
Directions: Apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposures. Reapply after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating or immediately after towel drying, at least every 2 hours.
Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen SPF 30 ($15.99 for 5 oz. from Australian Gold, Walgreens, Walmart, Ulta and Target): If you are only going to be out in the sun for short periods of time (like walking to the car from the office), then this mineral SPF 30 sunscreen is a great choice. If you are gong to be out longer, and playing in the sun, then I would recommend their SPF 50 instead. This sunscreen leaves behind no white residue, it is non-greasy and it feels great against the skin.
According to Australian Gold,
The Australian Gold Botanical SPF 30 Mineral Lotion is more than just powerful sun protection - it's gentle care for your skin. This non-chemical sunscreen lotion delivers non-whitening protection with a refreshingly luxurious, powdery-clean feel. Rich in vitamins and antioxidants from native Australian botanical ingredients, it allows you to enjoy the sun your way, protected from both UVA and UVB rays, and water resistant for up to 80 minutes. Discover the deliciously subtle scents and non-greasy, non-sticky feel of the Australian Gold Botanical Line and experience worry-free days in the sun!
Features:
Mineral Sunscreen: Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide provide a non-chemical sun protection option, with a powder-like matte finish that¿s never greasy
Australian Botanicals: Kakadu Plum, Eucalyptus and Red Algae form a unique combination of antioxidant rich botanicals
Eco Conscious Formulations: Designed to be Oxybenzone Free, Paraben Free, Phthalate Free, PABA Free, Petrolatum Free, SLS (Sulfate) Free, Dye Free and Oil Free. Hypoallergenic Dermatologist and Pediatrician Tested. Not tested on animals
Fragrance: Citrus Oasis scent provides a sophisticated fragrance that is subtle and refreshing
Directions: Apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposures. Reapply after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating or immediately after towel drying, at least every 2 hours.
The Australian Gold Botanical SPF 50 Mineral Lotion is more than just powerful sun protection - it's gentle care for your skin. This non-chemical sunscreen lotion delivers non-whitening protection with a refreshingly luxurious, powdery-clean feel. Rich in vitamins and antioxidants from native Australian botanical ingredients, it allows you to enjoy the sun your way, protected from both UVA and UVB rays, and water resistant for up to 80 minutes. Discover the deliciously subtle scents and non-greasy, non-sticky feel of the Australian Gold Botanical Line and experience worry-free days in the sun!
Features:
Mineral Sunscreen: Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide provide a non-chemical sun protection option, with a powder-like matte finish that¿s never greasy
Australian Botanicals: Kakadu Plum, Eucalyptus and Red Algae form a unique combination of antioxidant rich botanicals
Eco Conscious Formulations: Designed to be Oxybenzone Free, Paraben Free, Phthalate Free, PABA Free, Petrolatum Free, SLS (Sulfate) Free, Dye Free and Oil Free. Hypoallergenic Dermatologist and Pediatrician Tested. Not tested on animals
Fragrance: Citrus Oasis scent provides a sophisticated fragrance that is subtle and refreshing
Directions: Apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposures. Reapply after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating or immediately after towel drying, at least every 2 hours.
Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen Kids SPF 50 ($15.99 for 5 oz. from Australian Gold and Ulta): If you have got kids who will be playing in the sun this Labor Day, this wonderful SPF 50 mineral sunscreen is a wonderful source of protection. It is non-greasy, antioxidant-rich and super gentle on delicate skin.
According to Australian Gold,
100% Mineral Sunscreen: Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide provide a non-chemical sun protection option, with a powder-like matte finish that's never greasy. Australian Gold Botanical Kids SPF 50 Mineral Lotion: Lemon Myrtle, Kakadu Plum, Eucalyptus and Red Algae form a unique combination of antioxidant rich botanicals.
Features:
Eco Conscious Formulation
Designed to be Oxybenzone Free, Paraben Free, Phthalate Free, PABA Free, Petrolatum Free, SLS (Sulfate) Free, Dye Free and Oil Free
Hypoallergenic
Dermatologist and Pediatrician Tested
Not tested on animals
Fragrance Free: for use on even the most delicate skin
Directions: After 80 minutes of swimming or sweating, immediately after towel drying, at least every 2 hours. Children under 6 months: Ask a doctor.
Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen Continuous Spray SPF 50 ($15.99 for 6 oz. from Australian Gold, Ulta and Target): If you prefer easy-to-use spray sunscreens, this SPF 50 chemical sunscreen is a good choice. It sprays on evenly, offers great protection and leaves behind no sticky residue. If, however, you prefer mineral sunscreens, then I would suggest one of the others featured above.
According to Australian Gold,
The Australian Gold Botanical SPF 50 Natural Spray is more than just powerful sun protection - it's gentle care for your skin. This natural sunscreen spray delivers a refreshingly luxurious, powdery-clean feel in a convenient 360° continuous spray. Rich in vitamins and antioxidants from native Australian botanical ingredients, it allows you to enjoy the sun your way, protected from both UVA and UVB rays, and water resistant for up to 80 minutes. Discover the deliciously subtle scents and non-greasy, non-sticky feel of the Australian Gold Botanical Line and experience worry-free days in the sun!
Features:
Natural Spray: Formulated with Organic Alcohol for a naturally luxurious sunscreen experience that can be applied at an angle in a constant mist
Australian Botanicals: Kakadu Plum, Eucalyptus and Red Algae form a unique combination of antioxidant rich botanicals
Eco Conscious Formulations: Designed to be Oxybenzone Free, Paraben Free, Phthalate Free, PABA Free, Petrolatum Free, SLS (Sulfate) Free, Dye Free and Oil Free. Hypoallergenic. Dermatologist and Pediatrician Tested. Not tested on animals
Fragrance: Citrus Oasis scent provides a sophisticated fragrance that is subtle and refreshing
Directions: Shake well before use. Apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure and rub into skin. Hold container 4 to 6 inches from the skin to apply. Do not spray directly into face. Spray on hands then apply to face. Do not apply in windy conditions and use in well ventilated area. Reapply after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating or immediately after towel drying, at least every 2 hours.
Earth Kind Stay Away Mosquitoes ($13.25 for 4 oz. and $1.00 for 0.6 oz. from Earth Kind): If you are going to be celebrating Labor Day in an area with mosquitoes, then you might consider a good bug spray. Earth Kind makes an effective mosquito spray that is DEET-free, water-resistant and non-flammable.
According to Earth Kind,
The fast-acting, unscented, skin-friendly insect repellent gives you 14-hour highly effective protection from mosquitoes and ticks, and repels biting flies, gnats and chiggers for up to 8 hours. Simply stow the Stay Away® sample size in your make-up bag or purse for on-the-go use, and prevent and protect yourself from even the sneakiest of attacks.
Stay Away Mosquitoes® is a DEET-free, EPA registered, non-flammable and water-resistant formula made with Picaridin, a natural chemical that comes from a long black pepper plant. It not only protects you from unsightly bites, but more serious diseases that mosquitoes may transmit – ZIKA, West Nile virus, Chikungunya and Dengue, and also from ticks that may transmit Lyme Disease. This product will not only work for you, but is a reliable, high-performance mosquito repellent for the whole family. It’s also safe for pregnant women, as well as children 2 years and older.
Alissa Scarf in Almond Clay ($58.00 from Sundriven): Other than an effective sunscreen, a good sun hat, and a great pair sunglasses– I love to bring some stylish SPF/UPF garments with me on beach days. Sundriven makes wonderful sun protective clothing and their multifunctional scarf is a brilliant way to keep your head, shoulders, back, neck, décolleté and chest protected from the harmful rays of the sun. Plus, it is super chic and stylish. Furthermore, as you transition from the heat of the day to the chill of the night– it can offer an added layer of warmth.
According to Sundriven,
Inspired by the light beauty of butterfly wings, the Alissa scarf will help you prevent country club cleavage, dark spots, redness, premature aging and skin cancer, all at the same time. By protecting your neck and décolletage, you’ll look and feel younger. The Sundriven® Alissa Scarf can bring any outfit to life. By adding a touch of color near your face, it can brighten your complexion and your day.
All Sundriven® UV Wear is SPF/UPF 50+. This means that the fabric is tested using Test Method AATCC with a rating of SPF/UPF 50+. The AATCC (American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists) tests fibers and fabrics to measure its performance characteristics like water resistance and appearance. It also tests it’s blocking of ultraviolet radiation. SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. We’re most familiar with SPF when we buy sunscreen. SPF determines how long it will take for your skin to redden while wearing the product versus if your skin was unprotected. UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. UPF determines the amount of ultraviolet radiation that a fabric blocks. UPF is always used in reference to fabrics, like your clothing, and how well effective they are blocking UVA and UVB light. Like SPF, there is a rating system for UPF.
Available in: Almond Clay (shown above), Black, Sage and White (shown below)
Overall Assessment: All of these things are going into my beach bag for Labor Day, and I will be sharing them with everyone I know! What will you be packing for your day in the sun this Labor Day?
Now that the warm weather is back it's time to pick up new bottles of sunscreen, and more importantly to use them with regularity (this includes reapplication every 90 minutes -2 hours). Australian Gold makes a wide selection of high quality sunscreens, lip balms and after sun products that are employ innovative technologies, and are a pleasure to use. Among the many strengths of Australian Gold is the fact that they offer most of their formulas with a vast array of sun protection factors, therefore if you really love a formula you can get in with a few SPFs, if desired.
1) Australian Gold Spray Gel Sunscreen with Instant Bronzer SPF 15 ($7.99 for 8 oz. from Amazon, Drugstore.com and Target): Instant natural bronzer provides immediate, golden brown color for all skin types. Kick off your romantic getaway with a healthy glow with this instant bronzer that also features a secret gem! This exclusive formula contains caramel that works to soothe the skin. The bronzer enriches skin for a radiant glow before you even head out into the sun while the SPF protects your skin. Available in SPF 4, 8, 15, & 30. Australian Gold Spray Gel Sunscreen with Instant Bronzer SPF 15, with its delicious signature scent, offers a wonderful instant bronzy glow to the skin. It sinks into the skin immediately and leaves behind no greasy residue, and it doesn't stain clothes. I would definitely opt for the SPF 30 version if you are planning on spending any time in the sun. Features:
Fresh Feel Formula for Instant Absorption Dries Quickly on the Skin
Won't stain clothes or towels
Vitamin E protects skin from damaging effects of free radicals
Natural sunflower, tea tree & olive oils condition the skin
Aloe Vera provides moisturizing, soothing & natural healing
Water & sweat resistant
Convenient spray doesn't feel sticky or tacky
#1 Fragrance
Our Spray Gel Formulas Combine Sun Protection and Great Color!
Made in the USA
Active Ingredients: Octisalate (5.0%), Octocrylene (2.75%), Avobenzone (2.0%), Oxybenzone (0.5%) Inactive Ingredients: Acrylates/C10 30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Acrylates/C12 22 Alkyl Methacrylate Copolymer, Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis) Leaf Juice, Butylphthalimide, Caramel, Diazolidinyl Urea, Dimethicone, Disodium EDTA, Fragrance, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil (Sunflower), Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, Isopropylphthalimide, Melaleuca Altemifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil (Tea Tree), Methylparaben, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil (Olive), Oleth 10, Propylene Glycol, Propylparaben, Sorbitan Oleate, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Triethanolamine, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Water. 2) Australian Gold Sheer Coverage Lotion SPF 15 ($8.79 for 6 oz. from Amazon and Drugstore.com): Australian Gold Sheer Coverage Sunscreen with InvisiDry Technology feels clean and smooth. Indulge in this luxurious formula with Native Coconut scent for satiny, soft skin. Available in SPF 8, 15 & 30, this very water resistant sunscreen protects your skin for up to 80 minutes of activity. InvisiDry Technology guarantees fast drying and absorption, while leaving skin feeling smooth and clean, like your wearing nothing at all. This unique formula never leaves behind a tacky residue and contains a sweet ingredient—Licorice! Recognized for its anti-inflammatory and calming skin benefits. Australian Gold Sheer Coverage Lotion SPF 15 is a lovely smelling and fast absorbing sunscreen that hydrates the skin while protecting it. This oil-free formula dries down quickly and has a matte finish that will not transfer to clothing. If you are going to spend time in the sun I would opt to use the SPF 30 version. Features:
Broad Spectrum SPF 15 (Also available in SPF 8 and SPF 30)
Unique InvisiDry™ Technology for a Non-Oily, Matte Finish
Anti-Aging Formula
Oil-Free & Hypoallergenic
Dermatologist Tested
UVA/UVB Protection
Native Australian Acacia Extract Provides Antioxidants
Water Resistant for 80 Minutes
Made in the USA
Active Ingredients: Avobenzone (2%), Octisalate(5%), Octocrylene (2.75%) Inactive Ingredients: Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Butylated Hydroxytoluene, Butylphthalimide, Cetyl Alcohol, Disodium EDTA, Fragrance, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract (Licorice), Isopropylphthalimide, Methylisothiazolinone, Methylparaben, Phenyl Trimethicone, Polyethylene, Polysilicone-15, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Potassium Hydroxide, Propylene Glycol, Propylparaben, Silica, Stearyl Alcohol, Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer, Water 3) Australian Gold Lip Balm SPF 30 ($2.50 for .15 oz. each from Amazon) Provides sunscreen protection while natural Vitamin E, Aloe Vera and Jojoba soften skin. Irresistible Kiwi-Lime provides a refreshingly tart and tangy zing - ideal for a hot day on the beach or skiing the slopes. Apply liberally to the lips, face or tattoo area 20 minutes before sun exposure. Use daily and re-apply frequently.
As a lip balm fanatic, Australian Gold Lip Balm SPF 30 was love at first try. The Kiwi-Lime scent is so refreshing and pleasant to use that I find myself reapplying it more often than needed. The super emollient formula delivers mega-doses of moisture to the lips and leaves them soft, supple and hydrated, and the SPF 30 offers good sun protection against the harmful rays of the sun. Features:
Australian Gold makes so many wonderful sunscreens and sun care products, but I think that my favorite is their SPF 30 Lotion with Instant Bronzer. I stopped tanning years ago in order to avoid incurring any additional sun damage, and more importantly in order to avoid skin cancer. Living in Los Angeles means that one gets lots of sun year round, and it means that one must be vigilant about protecting one's skin. This particular sunscreen not only protects my skin from the harmful rays of the sun, but it likewise gives me a nice bronze-kissed glow. My dermatologist advised me to always wear protective clothing and an SPF of no less than 30. Therefore, I never step foot outside of my house without wearing sunscreen.
According to Australian Gold,
This broad spectrum sunscreen formula protects against UVA and UVB rays. Fortified with Kakadu Plum fruit - a native Australian extract, it provides the highest level of Vitamin C of any fruit on earth. Kona Coffee infused bronzers deliver instant bronze color for a beautiful glow even on your first day at the beach!
They further advise:
Spending time in the sun increases your risk of skin cancer and early skin aging. To decrease this risk, regularly use a sunscreen with a broad spectrum SPF value of 15 or higher and other sun protection measures including:
Limit time in the sun, especially from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m.
Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, hats and sunglasses.
Features:
Protect yourself from UVA/UVB rays while your skin is enriched with an instant bronzer infused with Kona Coffee to deliver a radiant, sun-kissed color.
Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB Protection
Kona Coffee infused lotions provide immediate sun-kissed glow
Kakadu Plum Extract provides highest level of Vitamin C
Water Resistant 80 minutes
Australian Gold signature fragrance
How to Use: Apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply after 40 minutes of swimming or sweating, and immediately after towel drying. Reapply at least every 2 hours.
My arm has a subtle bronze glow that neither oxidizes to an awful and unnatural orange, nor does it bleed everywhere.
Overall assessment: I love this stuff! Australian Gold SPF 30 Lotion with Instant Bronzer provides me with sun protection and gives me a beautiful bronze glow.
Australian Gold Hello Kitty Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 in Summer Berry is a safe and gentle mineral lotion formula that smells delicious, leaves behind no white cast, moisturizes the skin, and offers water resistant sun protection. Key Features:
Fresh summer berry fragrance.
Yomogi Extract - Considered Japanese "wonder herb" helps beautify skin and reduce sun damage.
Butterfly Bush Extract - Native Chinese shrub with beautiful flowers provides photo-protective activity.
Water Resistant (80 minutes).
UVA/UVB Broad Spectrum Protection.
PABA free.
It has a thick and creamy consistency, and it feels wonderful on the skin. Hello Kitty fans will love it, and kids will love it-- the whimsical packaging and berry scent is sure to be a crowd pleaser. More than anything I love how soft, moisturized and protected my skin is when I use this super fun sunscreen.
Active Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide 3% and Zinc Oxide 4%.
Any amount of time spent in the sun necessitates added moisturizing, and while I don't ever sunbathe I do still slather on rich lotions after each exposure. Australian Gold Moisture Lock Tan Extender is a wonderfully effective body lotion that will extend the life of your tan (assuming that you seek one), but will likewise keep skin deliriously soft and moisturized for those of us who aren't in the practice of sunbathing.
According to Australian Gold, After Sun Moisture Lock Tan Extender,
This exclusive face and body lotion, packed with vital moisture and nutrients, is perfect for soft, smooth, healthy-looking skin. Vitamin E and native Australian ingredient are specially blended in this moisture-rich after tan formula. You’ll love its luxurious, silky feel and fresh, light scent. Moisturized skin tans better and stays tan longer. Lock in moisture-and a great-looking tan- with Australian Gold® Moisture Lock®. Extend the life of your summer glow, while natural sunflower, tea tree and olive fruit oils seal in moisture, for a smooth, glowing complexion. Apply generously to exposed skin areas. Reapply often. Use daily, mate!
Vitamin E helps to prevent and diminish fine lines and wrinkles
Mineral Oil Free
Australian Gold signature fragrance
I have been using this as an all-over body lotion lately because it leaves the skin so soft, supple and moisturized. It feels good, smells like summer at the beach, and is the perfect thing to apply to the skin after a day of playing in the sun!
Overall assessment: I will use this all summer long!
