When it comes to sun care, few brands dominate the conversation quite like Bondi Sands. Their fake tans are practically iconic, but it’s their sunscreen that’s steadily gained a reputation for being reliable, wearable, and importantly, enjoyable to use. So when I was packing for a recent hot weather holiday, it was the Bondi Sands Hydra Range that immediately sprang to mind.
As the name suggests, this line isn’t just about robust UVA and UVB protection. Each formula is bolstered with hydration from ethically sourced algae — an ingredient rich in nutrients and minerals that promises to replenish moisture while helping skin cope with the stress of sun exposure. For anyone with drier skin, myself included, this makes the range particularly appealing.
🩵 Bondi Sands Hydra UV Protect SPF50+ Body Lotion
Broad-spectrum SPF50, four hours of water resistance, and a genuinely moisturising formula. The texture is creamy and smooth, spreading easily without leaving a chalky cast behind. It does feel a little oily so it’s not something I’d ever reach for on my face (though technically you could in a crunch) but on the body, that richness feels comfortable and protective. The only catch is that it can mark white clothing, so I’d recommend giving it a minute to settle before pulling on a fresh white shirt.
🩵 Bondi Sands Hydra UV Protect SPF50+ Face Gel
If you’ve ever hated facial sunscreens for their heaviness, stickiness, or tendency to sting eyes, this one is a real surprise. It’s ultra-light, genuinely invisible once applied, and sits happily under makeup or bare-faced. Despite being gel textured, it isn’t drying. In fact, it leaves the skin feeling hydrated, rather than parched or tight. Most importantly, it doesn’t irritate my eyes, even in glaring sun, which is more than I can say for far pricier options.
In short, the Hydra Range succeeds in making high SPF not only tolerable but pleasant to wear, which is exactly what we should be demanding of modern sunscreens. With its combination of high protection and skin comfort, this is an excellent choice for anyone looking to safeguard their skin.
