Inside the science: How we built Supernatural SPF 50+ mineral sunscreen 

At Antipodes, we set out to create an uncompromising mineral sunscreen – one that truly delivers broad spectrum SPF 50+ protection while staying true to our natural skincare philosophy. Here’s how Supernatural SPF 50+ Ceramide Silk Facial Sunscreen was formulated, and why it stands apart from the mineral sunscreens you may have questions about.

Our research led us to design a modern (non-nano) zinc oxide formulation built from natural, oil-origin compounds with a mid-weight, waxy texture. Crucially, the formula is completely free from water – what scientists call anhydrous.

This decision avoids many of the problems seen in water-based sunscreens, such as:

• Uneven distribution of zinc oxide, which can lead to inconsistent SPF coverage across the skin.
• Sheer or overly light textures that may compromise protection and reduce uniformity of coverage.

By removing water entirely, we created a formulation that maintains integrity, stability, and uniform performance, ensuring every application delivers reliable broad spectrum protection.

It’s important to distinguish between moisturisers with added SPF and a primary function sunscreen like ours. Moisturisers with SPF typically contain a high percentage of water to carry their active ingredients, with UV filters or blockers added in. These cannot be labelled as ‘broad spectrum UVA & UVB protection’.

In contrast, our Supernatural SPF 50+ was purpose-built as a sunscreen first and foremost – designed to defend skin against both UVA and UVB rays.

• UVB rays are short wave rays that bounce off the skin’s surface and cause burning. A blocker is essential to protect against them.
• UVA rays are longer, invisible rays that penetrate deeply into the skin, contributing to long-term damage and ageing – and they’re present even on cloudy days.

Our sunscreen has a silky-smooth texture designed to spread evenly across the skin. When warmed between the palms, it softens and glides on, leaving a fine silk-like residue. This residue is exactly what’s needed for consistent, effective UVB protection.
The product’s viscosity was a deliberate choice. We prioritised uniform SPF coverage and functional performance over a lighter, less protective feel.

Our formulation has been tested to TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration) standards, with results showing:

• A mean SPF value of 73.6
• A post-immersion SPF value of 65.7

We are committed to the quality and performance of our sunscreen and will continue to comply with TGA standards.

We also made a conscious choice to package our sunscreen in glass rather than plastic. Why? Many sunscreens in plastic tubes are prone to separating when exposed to heat – think of a product left in the sun at the beach. Our sturdy glass packaging helps maintain stability and sets a new benchmark for SPF packaging.

This reflects our core belief: sunscreen should be part of your daily morning skincare ritual at home, throughout the year, not just an afterthought at the beach. Daily SPF is important as UVA rays in Australia and New Zealand are present throughout the year – even on a cloudy day.

You may have heard about recalls of mineral sunscreens in Australia. Investigations by the TGA have identified over 20 products that shared a common water-based formulation. As of late 2025, several of these sunscreens have been recalled or paused following stability and performance concerns.

Our formula is very different from the sunscreens in question. Its anhydrous formula is designed to maintain consistent zinc oxide distribution for an even application.

We know that hearing about sunscreen recalls in Australia might raise questions for customers in Europe. The reality is that Australia and New Zealand have some of the strictest sunscreen testing standards in the world. In fact, many sunscreens sold in Europe are not authorised for sale in Australia or New Zealand because they don’t meet the strict criteria for broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection. So while some formulas in this part of the world have been recalled, this is actually a sign of how well regulated the industry is.