Sunscreen - preparing for Summer!

Just a reminder before you stock up on your sunscreen for summer, Consumer NZ tested a range of available sunscreens in NZ in 2022, and the results can be found here.

AJHS stocks the brand 'UV Guard MAX sunscreen' (coral safe and cruelty free) and ‘Smart365’ for our students and staff to access. Both are from the recommended list.

Some general advice from Consumer NZ when selecting sunscreens can be found below:

• Look for sunscreens with an SPF of 30 or above, plus water resistance and broad-spectrum protection. The NZDSI recommends SPF50+ for greater protection.

• Apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before going outside.

• Apply plenty – about two teaspoons for each leg, and one teaspoonful for each arm, your back, your front and your face (which includes your neck and ears). That adds up to about 45ml – or nine teaspoons – for a full-body application.

• Ignore “once-a-day” claims. Sunscreen should be reapplied often – every two hours you’re outside.

• Mopping up sweat or towelling dry reduces protection: apply another coat of sunscreen immediately.

We also suggest students bring their own small sunscreen to school and reapply it as needed throughout their day. And obviously wearing a sunhat when outside, and seeking shade is an excellent source of protection too.