After the recent sunscreen scare in South Africa, BeautySA has been pretty picky about the sunscreens we've been reviewing. First we check where they've been manufactured (sunscreens manufactured in the EU have more stringent UVA-protection controls), then if they offer broad-spectrum protection (against both UVA and UVB), and finally if the UVA-protection is one-third of its UVB value.

Yes, it gets a bit technical, which is why we've done all the hard work for you! Over the past few weeks these have become our favourites and they all comply with our set of regulations.

Nivea Sun Invisible Protection Transparent Spray

Sun protection factor: 50

Size & cost: R139.99

Best for: body and child-friendly

Consistency: quite watery but forms great protective barrier over your skin; a little sticky after application but absorbs into skin fully; it's 100% invisible as a clear liquid so there's no white residue

Smell: typical Nivea sunscreen scent, becomes strong (but not overpowering) depending on the amount you use

Tropitone Splash Lotion

Sun protection factor: 20

Size & cost: R64.99

Best for: body and child-friendly

Consistency: medium consistency expected of lotion sunscreens, leaves skin a little shiny but nothing to be embarrassed about; also water resistant

Smell: a hint of Monoi Tahitian coconut oil, but not overwhelmingly so

Garnier Ambre Solaire UV Sensitive

Sun protection factor: 50

Size & cost: R130

Best for: body

Consistency: absorbs into skin almost immediately with no sticky or white residue

Smell: pleasant

Supergoop Antioxidant Infused Sunscreen

Sun protection factor: 40

Size & cost: R160

Best for: body and face

Consistency: light and easily absorbed

Smell: slightly different than other sunscreens, but barely noticeable

Skin Medica Daily Defense Sunscreen

Sun protection factor: 30

Size & cost: R585

Best for: face

Consistency: medium consistency expected of lotion sunscreens, easily absorbed, feels like a night cream

Smell: fragrance free