Packed your towel, bathers and a good book? You’re almost set. When it comes to surviving an Australian summer, your real beach-bag MVPs are Sunscreen, UV protection Haircare and after-sun essentials designed to keep you hydrated, protected, and glowing all day long!
By Kaea, Salon Stylist, HAIRHOUSE Werribee
Why Is Sun Protection So Important in Australia?
The Australian sun is significantly harsher than in many other parts of the world due to our proximity to the equator, clearer skies and less atmospheric filtering. This which leads to the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, with over 2000 Australian lives lost yearly.
What SPF Should You Wear in Australia?
Needless to say, the highest protection factor of SPF is essential in Australia with SPF50 the advised level. But this doesn’t just apply to your skin. The scalp is also an area that gets overlooked with sunscreen but is vulnerable to sunburn which can lead to skin cancer.
So, in addition to SPF50 Sunscreen, here's some of the best summer Haircare, Skincare and UV protection bestsellers for your days in the sun.
What's the Best Sunscreen for Your Daytime Skincare Routine?
Supernatural SPF50 Ceramide Silk Sunscreen
Lightweight SPF50 lotions are a fantastic option for summer holidays. Even better if they are hydrating, water-resistant, 100% natural-origin broad-spectrum UVA + UVB mineral Sunscreens like this one! This next generation sunscreen doesn’t leave any white cast and delivers a luminous finish that sits comfortably on the skin – even in the hottest conditions - nourishing the complexion and softening signs of age.
Inika Tinted Natural Sunscreen SPF 50
New to Hairhouse, Inika is one of my favourite summer go-to essentials. I love this SPF50 Tinted Natural Sunscreen as it delivers UVA and UVB protection with a super light tint that leaves my skin tone even and glowy. The lightweight formula also feels really hydrating and leaves my complexion with a soft, luminous finish, plus the compact size makes it ideal for summer getaways.
What's the Best SPF Makeup for Going Out?
Coco & Eve Daily Radiance Primer SPF 50
Going from beach to bar and need to freshen up? I always keep this product close as it’s the perfect makeup-meets-Skincare hybrid that boosts radiance, offers sun protection, keeps makeup in place and skin primed. Hydrating, smoothing, and ideal for daily wear, it delivers powerful SPF 50 defence too.
What Haircare Protects Your Hair from Sun Damage in Hot Climates?
System Professional Solar Sun Oil
Dry, damaged, sun-exposed hair? This luxe Oil is a supercharged hydration innovation that protects hair from sun exposure whilst offering deep condition via lightweight application. I pack mine in my beach bag to apply before and during any sun exposure and it's great for reapplying after swimming to maintain hair health when outdoor play is set to max.
System Professional LuxeBlond Bi-Phase UV Heat Protector
This is a super luxe product that protects the hair from UV damage, heaps the hydration and prevents pigment from fading. It’s great for blondes as it maintains bright, brass free colour and corrects condition. Offering long-lasting resilience and providing protection from not only the sun - but heat damage - up to 220°c, this is another favourite go-to for a summer getaway.
Oribe Invisible Defence Universal Protection Spray
Feeling lazy? This Hydrating Protection Spray does all the heavy lifting whilst you make the most of OOO life. Easily combed through for instant shine, it offers next level results, defending hair against dryness, colour fade and UV rays. Providing 230°C heat protection when styling, it is dermatologically tested and super nurturing for coloured hair.
So, before you head out on holiday or run towards the sun, here’s your top ten summer Haircare and Skincare essentials to pack!
1. SPF 30 - SPF 50 Sunscreen
2. Hydrating Hair Masks
3. A Hat, Cap or Both!
4. Leave-In Conditioner
5. After Sun Care Lotion
6. Heat Styling Protection
7. Water-resistant everything!
8. Hydrating Moisturiser or Lotion
9. UV-protective Haircare
10. Broad Spectrum protection designed for the harsh Australia climate
Frequently Asked Questions
What SPF should I wear in Australia?
SPF50 is the recommended protection level in Australia given the country's intense UV exposure. It's worth applying to exposed skin daily, not just on beach days, since UV damage builds up from everyday incidental sun exposure too.
Does my scalp need sunscreen too?
Yes. The scalp is frequently overlooked but is just as vulnerable to sunburn and skin cancer as any other exposed skin, especially along the parting or on thinning areas. UV-protective hair oils and sprays help shield the scalp and hair at the same time.
Can hair get sun damaged like skin?
Yes. UV exposure breaks down hair's protein structure, leading to dryness, colour fade and brittle ends. UV-protective hair oils, sprays and after-sun treatments help defend against this and restore moisture lost from a day in the sun.
What should go in a summer beach bag for hair and skin?
A broad-spectrum SPF50 sunscreen, a UV-protective hair oil or spray, a hat, a hydrating leave-in conditioner and an after-sun lotion or hair treatment cover the essentials for a day spent outdoors in the Australian sun.
Shop summer Haircare and Skincare essentials at Hairhouse