Outdoor Skincare & Sun Protection
Outdoor skincare and sun protection for long days on the water, the trail and the beach, from SPF 30 and SPF 50 sunscreens to non-greasy sungels and SPF lip balms. Our range features Sun Bum, Skinnies and That's It, made for active people under New Zealand's strong UV.
Choose a sunscreen lotion, spray or stick for everyday and family use, a sungel that dries clear and will not leave your hands slippery for fishing or sport, and an SPF lip balm to protect lips that burn easily. Pair it with a wide-brim hat and polarised sunglasses for full protection.
Grab sun care with your next order for fast, tracked delivery across New Zealand, or pick it up from the Land & Sea concept store at 36 Pollen Street, Grey Lynn, or our Westgate collection point at 4B Topere Way.
Frequently asked questions about outdoor skincare and sun protection
Why is the UV so strong in New Zealand?
New Zealand's UV levels are high by world standards, partly because of our clear, unpolluted air and the way the sun's angle and the Earth's orbit line up in our summer. That means you can burn quickly, sometimes in under 15 minutes in mid-summer, even on cool or cloudy days. Check the daily UV index, and protect yourself whenever it is 3 or higher, which in summer is most of the day.
What does SPF actually measure?
SPF, or sun protection factor, measures how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays, the main cause of sunburn, when it is applied at the tested amount. Higher numbers block slightly more UVB, but no sunscreen blocks it all. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which also protects against UVA rays that contribute to skin ageing and damage. In New Zealand, SPF 50+ is the highest rating a sunscreen can carry.
Is SPF 50 much better than SPF 30?
SPF 50 blocks a little more UVB than SPF 30, but the bigger difference in real life comes from how much you apply and how often you reapply. Most people use far less than the tested amount, which lowers the protection they actually get. SPF 50 gives more margin for error, so it is a good choice for long days on the water or snow, fair skin and children.
How much sunscreen should I use?
Most adults need about a teaspoon of sunscreen for each arm, each leg, the front of the body, the back, and the face, neck and ears, roughly 35 ml for the whole body. Apply it about 20 minutes before you go outside so it can bind to your skin, and do not forget easily missed spots like ears, the back of the neck, the tops of feet and your scalp parting.
How often should I reapply sunscreen?
Reapply at least every two hours when you are outside, and straight after swimming, heavy sweating or towelling off, even if the sunscreen is labelled water resistant. Water resistance claims tell you how long the protection lasts in water before you need to reapply, not that it lasts all day. On long days fishing, tramping or at the beach, set a reminder so you do not forget.
What does water resistant mean on a sunscreen?
A water-resistant sunscreen has been tested to keep its protection for a set time in water, such as two or four hours, which will be shown on the label. After that time, or after you towel off, it needs reapplying. Water resistance is important for swimming, surfing, boating and sweaty sport, but no sunscreen is truly waterproof, so reapply generously after you come out of the water.
What is the difference between sunscreen and sungel?
Sunscreen is usually a lotion or cream that rubs in and moisturises the skin, while a sungel is a lightweight gel that dries clear and non-greasy. Sungels are popular with anglers, boaties, golfers and athletes because they will not leave your hands slippery or make sweat run into your eyes as easily. Both protect your skin when applied properly, so choose the texture you will happily use every day.
Does sunscreen expire, and how should I store it?
Yes, sunscreen loses effectiveness over time, so check the expiry date on the pack and replace it once it has passed or if it has changed colour, smell or texture. Heat breaks sunscreen down faster, so avoid leaving it in a hot car, on the dashboard or in direct sun on the boat; keep it in a bag, chilly bin or shaded locker instead. Buying fresh each summer is a good habit.