May marks Skin Cancer Awareness Month, which makes it the perfect time to revisit one of the most important steps in any skincare routine: sunscreen. I’ve received so many questions lately about which sunscreens I personally recommend, and I completely understand why there’s so much confusion around it. Between chemical vs. mineral, tinted vs. clear, SPF 30 vs. 50—the options can feel endless and overwhelming.
But here’s the bottom line: the best sunscreen for you is the one you’ll actually wear every single day. If it feels heavy, leaves a white cast, or just doesn’t mesh with your skin type, you won’t reach for it consistently—and then it doesn’t matter how “good” it is on paper. Finding the right one takes a little trial and error, but once you discover your go-to, it makes sun protection feel effortless.
Since I get asked so often, I thought I’d share one of my longtime favorites for the face. It checks all the boxes: affordable, effective, and so comfortable you’ll forget you’re even wearing it.
My Go-To: A Tinted Mineral Sunscreen That Does It All
If you’ve been searching for a sunscreen that multitasks—protecting your skin while also offering a little coverage—you’ll love the Australian Gold Botanical Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50.
Here’s why it stands out:
- It evens out skin tone. The formula has subtle orange undertones, which help neutralize blue under-eye circles and discoloration. On low-maintenance days, this means I can skip heavy foundation altogether.
- It’s mineral-based. Mineral sunscreens often get a bad reputation for being thick or chalky, but this one manages to feel lightweight while still delivering broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection.
- It feels invisible. Even though it’s technically on the thicker side, it blends beautifully into the skin and doesn’t leave that “sunscreen mask” feeling. Once it’s on, I hardly notice it.
- It’s affordable. Sunscreen is something you need to use daily—and generously—so affordability is key. I love that this option doesn’t break the bank.
- It’s tried and true. I’ve repurchased this sunscreen multiple times, and I always keep one in my travel bag. That’s how you know it’s a real favorite!
For anyone new to tinted sunscreens, this one is an excellent place to start. It gives just enough coverage to make you look a little more awake and polished, all while protecting your skin.
Why Daily Sunscreen Matters
Of course, sunscreen isn’t just about avoiding sunburns at the beach. It’s your daily defense against premature aging, dark spots, and most importantly, skin cancer. Even small amounts of sun exposure add up over time. That’s why dermatologists stress the importance of wearing SPF every single day—even if you’re just running errands or sitting by a sunny window.
Some quick reminders to get the most from your sunscreen:
- Use enough. For your face and neck, aim for about a nickel-sized amount. A pea-sized dab isn’t enough to give full protection.
- Reapply. Sunscreen isn’t a “set it and forget it” product. Reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.
- Check expiration dates. Sunscreen does lose effectiveness over time, so make sure your bottle isn’t past its prime.
How to Find Your Perfect SPF
While I love the Australian Gold Botanical Tinted SPF 50, it might not be everyone’s perfect match. The key is to think about your own preferences and lifestyle:
- If you hate heavy textures… Try lightweight gels or fluid sunscreens.
- If you want a makeup-skip option… Tinted sunscreens are a lifesaver for evening out skin tone.
- If your skin is sensitive… Mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) are usually gentler.
- If you’re always outdoors… Look for higher SPF options (50 and above) and water resistance.
Remember, it may take trying a couple of different formulas before you find “the one,” but once you do, it makes wearing sunscreen feel natural and easy.
The Takeaway
At the end of the day, sunscreen isn’t negotiable—it’s one of the best things you can do for your skin’s health and longevity. The good news is, there are so many options out there now that there truly is something for everyone.
For me, the Australian Gold Botanical Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50 has been a game-changer. It protects, perfects, and doesn’t cost a fortune. Most importantly, it’s one I reach for again and again, which is exactly what makes it “the best” in my book.
So as we recognize Skin Cancer Awareness Month, I encourage you to check your current SPF stash. Do you actually enjoy using it? Does it fit into your daily routine? If not, maybe it’s time to experiment with something new. Because when you find the right sunscreen, you’ll be far more likely to wear it—and that consistency is what truly keeps your skin safe.
Here’s to happy, healthy, and protected skin all year long!
