The Crazy Arms team often get asked what sunscreens we recommend for those parts of the body that can’t be protected by clothing.

With so many to choose from on the supermarket shelves, it can be a daunting task to pick one.  The reality is that using any of the available sunscreens is better than no sun screen on high UV days.

But if you want to be a bit fussier, below are the top 3 choices we use on ourselves and our family.

Our criteria - which type of sunscreen / UV-blocker is best?

Both chemical and mineral blockers do the job. Chemical sunscreens work through chemicals which absorb the UVB and UVA. 

A variety of chemicals are used, with maximum concentrations specified to minimise the absorption into your system. The list gets updated as more research takes place. Government testing has declared the levels safe.  We go along with that, although we still reckon absorbing fewer chemicals is better. 

Indeed, a recent study in the USA suggested that if you apply enough sunscreens to be effective, you will actually be absorbing more than the specified 'safe' amount.  That’s why we still believe that ‘clothing is king’.  Arm protection, like Crazy Arms, can reduce overall sunscreen use by 30%, as well as providing consistent protection.

As you may have read, Hawaii banned sunscreens containing two chemical blockers - oxybenzone and octinoxate - in Jan 2021. This is because of the potential impact on the reef systems. 

Now there is new research casting a shadow over one of the most common ingredients in sunscreens - octocrylene - which is used in over 2,400 brands.  According to research, as octocrylene degrades over time, it forms benzophenone, a suspected carcinogen that also can interfere with key hormones and reproductive organs. Scary stuff.  How scared we should be is a matter for the scientists to investigate further. You can read a good summary article here.

That’s why we choose Zinc sun screens

Mineral blockers like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide work differently, by sitting on top of the skin and deflecting UV rays.  The Crazy Arms team tend to use these products when we are out and about with our families. These mineral blockers are famous for the 'white' look. 

Zinc Oxide is a naturally derived product, that reflects both UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays penetrate the epidermis (top layer of the skin) causing damage to the cells. UVA rays can affect cells deeper in the skin. These are the rays that cause premature skin aging and the more aggressive and harmful forms of skin cancer.

Our Top 3 recommended Zinc-based Sun Screens

Ok, we’re not chemists or dermatologists.  However, we do read what is written on the packs and their corporate websites with a critical eye.  We have spent a bit of time analysing the ingredient lists, as well as trying and testing on ourselves and our kids under the Australian sun.

While all three brands offer SPF 30 versions, we strongly recommend the SPF 50 for long days in the sun.

On or in the water? Sunbutter Suncreen

A recent discovery for us, Sunbutter Sunscreen has been around for five years, created by Australian marine biologist and conservation ecologist team, Sacha and Tom.

SunButter sunscreen is made with certified sustainable ingredients and broad-spectrum UVA and UVB mineral blocker zinc oxide, which lends superior restorative and nurturing qualities for all skin types, even sensitive and/or weathered skin. This moisturising sunscreen will leave your skin feeling soft, smooth, and protected from the elements. 

Most importantly, our 11-year-old really likes the feel and enjoys using it on her face before school. It rubs on smoothly and easily.

Made in a solar powered factory in Australia, it comes in a tin, that is food grade safe, made from REUSABLE and recyclable material and BPA free.

You can see more of their story here.

Sport and Play, with a hint of indulgence - People4Ocean SPF 50

 

We love P4O for its non-greasy, easy to rub in properties.  There's a slight granular feel that feels like a gentle exfoliation, and the light coconut oil fragrance rounds out the feeling of a mini-spa treatment in preparation for the sun. 

Founded by Louise and Austin Laing-Herbert, also both marine biologists, the simple packaging reflects the authentic goal to provide reef friendly products.  

This multi-award-winning product, is an highly protective mineral cream with a pearlescent finish. The lightweight formula provides gentle broad-spectrum protection and enhances skin moisture and glow with organic coconut oil. Protects against the full spectrum of UV rays, airborne pollution and blue light damage. Very lightly scented with proprietary essential oils.

Reef-Safe • Vegan • Nourishing • No White Cast

Little Urchin - SPF 50 for Kids

Just as Crazy Arms was founded by 3 Sydney Dads, so too Little Urchin sunscreen. LITTLE URCHIN began one day when a father found his daughter caked in chemical-smelling sunscreen after attending day-care. Knowing just enough about the potentially damaging effects of certain chemicals in many sunscreens to know he didn’t want her wearing them, the father began a six-month formulation journey using only rich essential oils and nature's most potent skin-nourishing ingredients. After developing the formula as far as he could, he engaged the help of one of Australia’s leading formulators to perfect the product and ensure its integrity.

Why call it Little Urchin? Like humans, sea urchins are sensitive to light and chemicals. In fact, these clever little fellows have evolved to create their own natural sunscreen to protect their young from the sun’s harsh rays. These amazing critters are full of delightful and surprising examples of Mother Nature at her best. We didn't know that these spindly creatures are known to live more than 100 years without showing any biological signs of ageing!

Our kids love the Clear Zinc sunscreen - especially the no fuss application using the Zinc Stick to top up the highly vulnerable areas like noses and cheeks.  It rubs in well, and is wonderfully natural. Containing plant-based, skin-loving ingredients and Non-Nano Zinc Oxide, this formula future-proofs your face by providing high-level sun protection when you are on the go.

Find out more about our top 3 recommendations:

For Activity on or in the water: Sunbutter Sunscreen

For sport and social activity: P4O SPF 50

For Kids: Little Urchin Clear Zinc Sunscreen SPF 50

Check out some of the other sunscreen reviews:

Choice Magazine (2018) – SPF 50+ sunscreens put to the test

14 of the Best Sunscreens with Zinc Oxide

 

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Our blog articles are based on our own experience and research. For expert advice, please contact a medical professional. 

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