Sun Protection for Your European Holiday: What to Know Before You Pack
The European summer is dreamy, but don’t let it compromise your skin.
There’s something nostalgic and special about a holiday in the European sun. Long lunches, warm evenings, golden shoulders. But while you're soaking it all in, your skin could be dealing with more than you think.
Here’s what we want our clients to know before heading away…
European sunscreens aren’t made for Australian skin
It’s common to find SPF 20 or 30 in European formulas, but many also contain tan-accelerating actives that encourage pigmentation. They’re often fragranced, irritating for sensitive skin, and expensive for what they offer.
Australia has some of the strictest SPF regulations in the world (TGA approved), meaning your protection here is stronger, more stable, and safer long-term.
Our advice? Pack your SPF from home. You’ll save your skin and your wallet.
The sun feels weaker — but exposure is still high
The UV index might not hit the same highs as an Aussie summer, but incidental exposure adds up fast when you're sightseeing all day. Walking cobblestone streets, queuing for galleries, sipping Aperol on a rooftop — it’s easy to underestimate how much sun you’re getting.
Especially in cities like Rome, Paris, or Barcelona, where shade is limited, sun can hit your neck, ears and shoulders for hours at a time.
A few non-negotiables to pack:
A high-protection Australian SPF (make sure they are 50+, TGA-approved options)
A linen shirt or lightweight cover-up for shoulders
A hat that covers your face and ears
Polarised sunglasses
Antioxidants in your skincare to support skin under stress (Catalyst AC 11 is our fave)
Barrier repair for post-sun nourishment (like Beta Gel or Rescue)
Guiya BB Cream for sheer, breathable coverage with SPF
Browse our SPF and summer skin essentials here.
Enjoy memories that last a lifetime, not sun damage.
Back from Europe? Let’s check in.
Long-haul flights, climate changes and cumulative sun exposure can leave your skin feeling unbalanced, dehydrated, or sensitised, even if you protected it well.
Book a post-holiday Skin Health Review with our team to assess your barrier, reset your routine, and support your skin as the seasons shift.