Beyond Sunscreen: Smarter Ways to Stay Sun Safe All Year Round
After the recent CHOICE testing revealed that most sunscreens aren’t living up to their SPF promises, many Australians are rethinking how they protect their skin and alternatives to SPF. If sunscreen alone can’t be relied on, what else can we do?
At Sun Ray, we believe sun protection shouldn’t rest on one product. It’s about building smart habits and layering up your defence. Here’s how.
Sunscreen Is Still Essential
We’re not saying ditch sunscreen. It’s essential, especially on exposed skin that isn’t covered by clothing. But make it one part of your UV strategy, not the whole plan. Choose TGA approved brands, slop it on generously, and don’t forget to reapply.
Sunscreen Has Its Limits
Even when a sunscreen performs well in the lab, real life application is often the problem:
- Most people don’t apply enough
- It wears off with sweat, water, and friction
- It needs to be reapplied every 2 hours (and more often if you’re active or wet)
With the CHOICE findings showing that only 4 out of 20 sunscreens met their claimed SPF levels, it's clear that sunscreen shouldn't be your only line of defence.
The Case for UPF Clothing
Unlike sunscreen, UPF 50 plus clothing doesn’t wear off. It’s a set and forget solution that offers consistent protection from UV rays and it covers areas people often miss with sunscreen (like shoulders, back of the neck, and tops of ears).
All Sun Ray UPF50+ garments are:
- Independently tested to exceed UPF 50 plus standards
- Designed to block 98 percent of harmful UVA and UVB rays
- Breathable and comfortable for warm weather wear
Whether you're going for a swim, a hike, or just running errands, UPF gear has your back.
Other Smart Sun Protection Habits
☂️ Seek Shade – Especially between 10am and 3pm when UV is highest.
🧢 Wear a Hat – Wide brims, neck flaps, or a trusty Shade cap for casual wear.
😎 Don’t Forget Your Eyes – UV can cause long term eye damage, so sunnies are a must.
📲 Check the UV Index – Not all sunny days are equal. Even overcast skies can have high UV.
In Short: Don’t Rely on One Line of Defence
Sun safety should be layered. A mix of UPF rated clothing, trusted sunscreen, smart timing, and good habits will give you the best protection without the stress of wondering whether your SPF is actually working.
Ready to take the guesswork out of sun protection?
Explore the Sun Ray UPF 50 plus range →
Content Disclaimer:
The information on this website is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. While we’re passionate about sun protection, our content shouldn’t be taken as personal health advice. If you have any concerns about your skin or health, please speak to a qualified medical professional.