In this day and age, it goes without saying: Sunscreen is essential and should be a part of everyone's skincare routine. But choosing a formula that suits your skin and that you like to wear is often a barrier to use. In a recent review, many so-called ‘trusted brands’ in New Zealand failed to meet regulatory standards, which is why confusion reigns. So, we have decided to keep you up to date on sunscreen brands that do deliver - TiZO is one. Turning 35 this year, it’s still ahead of the pack, according to editor Trudi Brewer. Read on to learn more.
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Sunscreen is your skin’s best friend and the best money you can spend to slow down ageing and avoid skin cancer. Under our harsh New Zealand sun, an effective sunscreen is essential, and if, like us, you are always on the hunt for cosmetically pleasing formulas, TiZO is a brand worth trying.
First up, let’s look at its pedigree. It was created 35 years ago by Pennsylvania-based plastic surgeon Dr Harry Fallick. Sure, it’s had some tweaks along the way, but it was always made to complement his line of work. He wanted to recommend a product that was non-irritating for patients having skin treatments and procedures; it needed to be effective, chemical-free, and suitable for sensitive skin, too. So TiZO was created as a 100 per cent mineral-based sunscreen made exclusively with medical-grade titanium zinc oxide, hence the name, which stands for Titanium Zinc Oxide.
So why choose mineral over chemical formulations? This ingredient sits on the skin rather than absorbing into it, helping reflect both UVA and UVB rays away, whereas chemical filters work by absorbing the rays into the skin, converting them to heat, and then releasing them from the body. Also, unlike many mineral sunscreen formulas that are famous for leaving a white or grey cast on the skin, TiZO does not.
Most importantly, the best sunscreen is one you like to wear, and for us, it’s like a second skin.
There is a range of formulas, each offering an elegant finish essential for daily use. They are also multi-purpose, act as skin primers, offer tinted options to reduce the need for foundation, and blend seamlessly. They are all free from dyes, parabens, fragrances, and chemical sunscreen filters, and are cruelty-free. The brand also meets FDA regulatory approval requirements. But here’s the most important stat: Each formula is rigorously tested by accredited third-party laboratories, underscoring the brand’s commitment to safety and quality. It is also free of oxybenzone and octinoxate, making it reef-friendly.
Understanding SPF
While no sunscreen is 100 per cent effective at blocking all UV radiation, how you apply it is key.
SPF is a measure of how effective a sunscreen is at protecting your skin. Also, the higher the UV index, the faster skin burns. A UV index of 10 or more is considered ‘extreme’ and common during a New Zealand summer. Our UV radiation is strongest between 10 am and 4 pm; all things considered, if it takes 10 minutes of sun exposure for your skin to begin to burn, applying an SPF 50 sunscreen protects you for 50 times that amount – regardless, experts agree you need to reapply every two hours. Finally, very few people apply the correct amount of sunscreen to the face and neck; the two-finger method is a good guide. Squeeze the product in two separate lines on your pointer and middle finger, then apply. For the body, a shot glassful of sunscreen is recommended.
Sunscreen is the closest thing we have to a miracle beauty buy—you may not notice a huge difference when you're wearing it. Ultimately, the future you will thank your younger self for fewer wrinkles, a more even complexion, and firmer skin once you hit your 40s.
That alone is motivation to find a formula you enjoy wearing and apply it every day, right?
Here are our favourite formulas in the TIZO collection
Tizo AM Replenish Non-Tinted SPF40, $85
If you like a non-tinted, non-greasy sunscreen, here it is. It offers the essential broad-spectrum protection in a silky, matte finish. The zinc oxide mineral formula is also rich in antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E and ceramides, to hydrate and strengthen the skin’s barrier. It layers invisibly under the foundation, but there is also a lightly tinted version. Clean from nasties and fragrance-free, it’s dermatologist-recommended
Tizo Mineral Sun Defense tinted SPF 50, $75
This is hands down one of my favourite formulas. First, it’s creamy yet lightweight, hydrating and protecting the skin. A blend of mineral titanium and zinc oxides, with antioxidants like balm mint, a stable oil-soluble vitamin C and vitamin E, and natural mica and iron oxides, offers a light-tinted colour. But most importantly, it’s soothing to apply; it glides on the skin and stays put for hours.
Here is a guide, and the brands worth buying.