This Sunscreen and Skincare Hybrid is the New Generation of Suncare

As any Australian can tell you, we live under one of the harshest suns in the world, with a UV index to match^[1]. But our fierce climate has never stopped us from spending time out and about – it’s part of who we are. “No hat, no play” and “Slip, Slop, Slap” were basically drilled into our consciousness from day one.

And yet, as adults, while many of us have our skincare routines well and truly locked down, there’s still one step that tends to fall through the cracks.

Because here’s the thing: no matter how considered the rest of your morning beauty line up is, it only really counts if you’re wearing sunscreen. Daily sunscreen remains the most important anti-ageing step – the sun is the number one cause of premature skin ageing^[2] – yet only two in five Australians use SPF 30 or higher on most days^[3]. So why is it still the step so many of us overlook?

Sunscreen, for all its protective glory, still has a bit of a PR problem. Reputation matters, and its stereotypically heavy formulas, sticky texture and white cast – along with that unmistakable sunscreen scent – are classic complaints.

There’s also a common myth that sunscreen is situational rather than routine – something you only really need on hot, sunny holidays or when you’re spending hours outdoors. In reality, UV exposure isn’t limited to summer or beach days^[4], which means sunscreen earns its place in your everyday routine – even if you don’t plan on leaving the couch.

Part moisturiser, part sunscreen, part makeup primer; this triple threat serum melts quickly into skin with an invisible, non-greasy finish. It layers seamlessly under makeup, creating the perfect canvas for buffing on foundation – no pilling, no white cast.

It’s the kind of morning shortcut that earns its place on your bathroom shelf, making everyday sun protection feel effortless rather than a chore. And let’s be honest – we all live busy lives. We don’t need any more of those.

Once sunscreen is locked into the routine, the rest of your skincare can be chosen more intentionally to complement that daily protection.

• For visible firmness and elasticity – Collagen peptide-focused creams can help support skin as it changes over time, layered morning or night.

• For visible brightness and glow – Antioxidant formulas, like vitamin C serums, pair perfectly with sunscreen to help enhance radiance.

• Retinol, at your own pace – Used at night, retinol supports smoother-looking skin, while sunscreen has your back during the day. Start gentle if you’re new, or step it up if your skin’s already used to regular retinol use.

^1. Cancer Council Australia. Cancer Council stresses importance of improved understanding as UV reaches extreme levels this summer.

^2. Australasian College of Dermatologists. Ageing skin.

^3. Australian Bureau of Statistics. Seven insights: sun protection behaviours in Australia from new ABS data.

^4. Cancer Council Western Australia. Ten myths about sun protection.

^5. Cancer Council Australia. Sunscreen – advice.

^6. Cancer Council Australia. Tips on being sun safe this summer.

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^{*Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Sunscreen is only one part of sun protection. Avoid prolonged high-risk sun exposure and re-apply frequently.}

^{Sponsored content in partnership with OLAY.}