Invisible Zinc

It uses a single mineral UV filter, zinc oxide, and no chemical filters. Zinc sits on the surface of the skin and reflects UVA and UVB rather than absorbing them, which is why mineral sunscreens are the usual choice for sensitive or reactive skin and for children. Every product is fragrance free and paraben free.

The current formulas use micronised zinc oxide and are designed to rub in clear. Apply in a thin, even layer and work it in; the tinted Sheer Defence shades add a sheer wash of colour for faces that want no trace at all.

Sheer Defence Facial Moisturiser SPF50 is the untinted daily face option, lightweight, non-comedogenic and made to sit under makeup. Sheer Defence Tinted Moisturiser SPF50 does the same job with a sheer Light or Medium tint. Both are 2 hours water resistant.

Sport Mineral Sunscreen SPF50+ is the highest protection in the range and 4 hours water resistant, so it stays on through swimming and sweating. Face + Body SPF50 is the everyday family sunscreen, 2 hours water resistant.

Junior Mineral Sunscreen SPF50 is a low irritant formula for children and infants over six months, with a clip-on tube for a bag or pram. Babies under six months should be kept out of direct sun with shade and clothing rather than sunscreen. Face + Body is also recommended for children.

Apply liberally and evenly 20 minutes before going into the sun, then reapply every two hours and after swimming, sweating or towelling. The Cancer Society's guide for an adult is about seven teaspoons for a full body. Water resistance is measured in the water and does not replace reapplying.

It can. Zinc oxide can mark fabrics and surfaces while wet, so let it dry before dressing and wash marks promptly. The Sheer Defence packs carry the same advice.

The range is made in Australia and labelled to the Australian and New Zealand sunscreen standard AS/NZS 2604, which has been mandatory for sunscreens sold in New Zealand since 2022. The Sheer Defence line is also dermatologist tested and cruelty free.