Hawaiian Tropic vs Australian Gold – Which One Should You Choose?

Hawaiian Tropic vs Australian Gold: For decades, these two iconic brands have been vying for dominance in the sun care market, each boasting its own unique formula and loyal following. But which one reigns supreme?

In this ultimate showdown, we’ll dive into the world of sunscreens, lotions, and oils to compare the two giants of the industry.

Hawaiian Tropic vs Australian Gold – A Quick Comparison

Category	Hawaiian Tropic	Australian Gold
SPF	15-70	15-50
Moisturizing	Yes	Yes
Eco-Friendly	Yes	Yes
Price	Affordable	Premium
Customer Reviews	4.2/5	4.4/5
Skin Types	Sensitive, Normal, Dry	Sensitive, Normal, Dry
Product Range	Sunscreens, Lotions, Oils	Sunscreens, Lotions, Oils
Key Ingredients	Aloe vera, Coconut oil	Aloe vera, Green tea extract
Packaging	Recyclable	Recyclable

Origins and History: A Tale of Two Brands

Hawaiian Tropic: A Tropical Dream

Hawaiian Tropic was founded in 1969 by Ron Rice, a passionate surfer and entrepreneur. Rice’s vision was to create a sunscreen that would allow people to enjoy the sun without worrying about its harmful effects. He drew inspiration from the tropical paradise of Hawaii, where the sun shines bright and the beaches are stunning. The brand’s early success was fueled by its innovative approach to sun care, which emphasized the importance of moisturizing and nourishing the skin while protecting it from the sun.

Australian Gold: A Golden Legacy

Australian Gold, on the other hand, was founded in 1984 by a group of Australian surfers who were frustrated with the limited sun care options available at the time. They set out to create a sunscreen that would provide superior protection, moisturize the skin, and be easy to apply. The brand’s name is a nod to Australia’s iconic beaches and the country’s reputation for sun-kissed skin. Australian Gold quickly gained popularity for its high-quality products and commitment to innovation.

Sunscreen Showdown: SPF and Ingredient Comparison

SPF Levels: A Numbers Game

Hawaiian Tropic offers sunscreens with SPF levels ranging from 15 to 70, while Australian Gold’s range spans from 15 to 50. At first glance, it seems that Hawaiian Tropic offers higher SPF options, but what does this really mean?

• SPF 15: Provides protection against 93.3% of UVB rays
• SPF 30: Provides protection against 96.7% of UVB rays
• SPF 50: Provides protection against 98.5% of UVB rays
• SPF 70: Provides protection against 99.2% of UVB rays

Ingredient Breakdown: Active Ingredients and More

Hawaiian Tropic:

• Active ingredients: Avobenzone, Octinoxate, Octocrylene
• Moisturizing ingredients: Aloe vera, Vitamin E, Coconut oil
• Other ingredients: Fragrance, Tocopherol (Vitamin E)

Australian Gold:

• Active ingredients: Avobenzone, Octinoxate, Oxybenzone
• Moisturizing ingredients: Aloe vera, Vitamin E, Green tea extract
• Other ingredients: Fragrance, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Glycerin

Moisturizing Marvels: Lotions and Oils Compared

Lotions: Hydration Station

Hawaiian Tropic’s lotions are designed to provide long-lasting hydration and soothe dry, sun-kissed skin. Their formulas often feature:

• Aloe vera: Known for its calming and moisturizing properties
• Coconut oil: Hydrates and nourishes the skin
• Vitamin E: Antioxidant-rich to combat free radicals

Australian Gold’s lotions, on the other hand, focus on:

• Aloe vera: Soothes and calms the skin
• Green tea extract: Rich in antioxidants to combat environmental stressors
• Glycerin: Attracts and retains moisture in the skin

Both brands offer rich, non-greasy lotions that absorb quickly into the skin. However, Hawaiian Tropic’s formulas tend to be more emollient, making them suitable for dry to very dry skin. Australian Gold’s lotions, while still moisturizing, are slightly lighter and more suitable for normal to dry skin.

Oils: Nourishing Bliss

When it comes to oils, both brands offer a range of options to nourish and protect the skin. Hawaiian Tropic’s oils often feature:

• Coconut oil: Hydrates and nourishes the skin
• Sweet almond oil: Moisturizes and softens the skin
• Vitamin E oil: Antioxidant-rich to combat free radicals

Australian Gold’s oils, on the other hand, focus on:

• Coconut oil: Hydrates and nourishes the skin
• Jojoba oil: Moisturizes and balances the skin’s natural pH
• Argan oil: Rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids to nourish the skin

Water Resistance: Which Brand Keeps You Protected Longer?

Hawaiian Tropic: Water-Resistant Wonders

Hawaiian Tropic’s water-resistant sunscreens are designed to keep up with your active lifestyle. Their formulas feature:

• Water-resistant technology: Helps sunscreen stay on skin longer, even in water or sweat
• Moisturizing ingredients: Aloe vera, Vitamin E, and Coconut oil to hydrate and nourish the skin
• Broad-spectrum protection: Shields skin from UVA and UVB rays

Hawaiian Tropic’s water-resistant sunscreens are available in various SPF levels, including 30, 50, and 70. According to the brand, their water-resistant sunscreens can withstand:

• 80 minutes of swimming or sweating
• 4-6 hours of water exposure

Australian Gold: Water-Defying Formulas

Australian Gold‘s water-resistant sunscreens are designed to provide long-lasting protection, even in the most challenging conditions. Their formulas feature:

• Water-defying technology: Helps sunscreen stay on skin longer, even in water or sweat
• Moisturizing ingredients: Aloe vera, Vitamin E, and Green tea extract to hydrate and nourish the skin
• Broad-spectrum protection: Shields skin from UVA and UVB rays

Australian Gold’s water-resistant sunscreens are available in various SPF levels, including 30, 50, and 50+. According to the brand, their water-resistant sunscreens can withstand:

• 80 minutes of swimming or sweating
• 4-6 hours of water exposure

Skin Type Compatibility: Sensitive Skin, Acne-Prone, and More

Sensitive Skin: Soothing Solutions

Hawaiian Tropic:

• Offers a range of sensitive skin-friendly products, including fragrance-free and hypoallergenic options
• Features soothing ingredients like Aloe vera and Vitamin E to calm and comfort sensitive skin
• Gentle, non-irritating formulas that minimize the risk of allergic reactions

Australian Gold:

• Provides sensitive skin-friendly products with gentle, non-comedogenic ingredients
• Incorporates soothing agents like Green tea extract and Aloe vera to calm and comfort sensitive skin
• Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic options available to reduce the risk of irritation

Acne-Prone Skin: Non-Comedogenic Formulas

Hawaiian Tropic:

• Offers non-comedogenic products that won’t clog pores or exacerbate acne
• Features lightweight, oil-free formulas that won’t irritate acne-prone skin
• Salicylic acid and Tea tree oil help to control acne and reduce inflammation

Australian Gold:

• Provides non-comedogenic products that are gentle on acne-prone skin
• Incorporates ingredients like Salicylic acid and Tea tree oil to help control acne and reduce inflammation
• Lightweight, oil-free formulas that won’t clog pores or irritate the skin

Dry Skin: Moisturizing Marvels

Hawaiian Tropic:

• Offers rich, moisturizing formulas that provide long-lasting hydration
• Features ingredients like Coconut oil, Shea butter, and Vitamin E to nourish and soften dry skin
• Intensive moisturizing products that help to repair and restore dry, damaged skin

Australian Gold:

• Provides moisturizing products that quench dry skin’s thirst for hydration
• Incorporates ingredients like Coconut oil, Aloe vera, and Glycerin to lock in moisture and soothe dry skin
• Rich, non-greasy formulas that provide long-lasting hydration and comfort

Price Point and Value: Is One Brand a Better Bargain?

Hawaiian Tropic: Affordable Luxury

Hawaiian Tropic’s prices vary depending on the product and size, but here are some approximate price ranges:

• Sunscreens: 8-15 (6 oz), 12-25 (12 oz)
• Lotions: 10-20 (12 oz), 15-30 (24 oz)
• Oils: 12-25 (6 oz), 20-40 (12 oz)

Hawaiian Tropic’s prices are generally more affordable than Australian Gold’s, making it a great option for those on a budget. However, some users may find that the prices are still a bit steep for the quality and quantity provided.

Australian Gold: Premium Pricing

Australian Gold’s prices are generally higher than Hawaiian Tropic’s, but the brand justifies this with its high-quality, premium ingredients and formulations. Here are some approximate price ranges:

• Sunscreens: 15-30 (6 oz), 25-45 (12 oz)
• Lotions: 20-35 (12 oz), 30-50 (24 oz)
• Oils: 25-45 (6 oz), 40-60 (12 oz)

Australian Gold’s prices are higher, but the brand’s commitment to using only the best ingredients and formulations may justify the extra cost for some users.

Eco-Friendliness and Sustainability: Which Brand is Greener?

Hawaiian Tropic: Eco-Friendly Efforts

Hawaiian Tropic has made significant strides in reducing its environmental impact:

• Recyclable Packaging: Many of Hawaiian Tropic’s products come in recyclable packaging, reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
• Eco-Friendly Ingredients: The brand uses environmentally friendly ingredients, such as coconut oil and aloe vera, which are sustainably sourced and gentle on the skin.
• Carbon Offset: Hawaiian Tropic offsets its carbon footprint by investing in renewable energy projects and reforestation efforts.

Australian Gold: Sustainable Practices

Australian Gold also prioritizes eco-friendliness and sustainability:

• Sustainable Ingredients: The brand uses sustainable ingredients, such as green tea extract and aloe vera, which are sourced from environmentally responsible suppliers.
• Recyclable Packaging: Australian Gold’s packaging is designed to be recyclable, minimizing waste and promoting sustainability.
• Energy Efficiency: The brand’s manufacturing facilities are designed to be energy-efficient, reducing its carbon footprint.

User Reviews and Ratings: What Do Customers Really Think?

Hawaiian Tropic: Customer Reviews and Ratings

Hawaiian Tropic’s products have an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars on Amazon, with over 10,000 customer reviews. Here are some common themes and praises from customers:

• Effective sun protection: Many customers rave about Hawaiian Tropic’s sunscreens, citing their effectiveness in preventing sunburn and skin damage.
• Moisturizing and nourishing: Users praise the brand’s moisturizing lotions and oils, saying they leave their skin feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated.
• Pleasant scents and textures: Customers appreciate the pleasant, tropical scents and non-greasy textures of Hawaiian Tropic’s products.

Australian Gold: Customer Reviews and Ratings

Australian Gold’s products have an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon, with over 5,000 customer reviews. Here are some common themes and praises from customers:

• High-quality ingredients: Many customers appreciate Australian Gold’s use of high-quality, natural ingredients that are gentle on their skin.
• Effective sun protection: Users praise the brand’s sunscreens, saying they provide excellent protection against the sun’s harmful rays.
• Luxurious and nourishing: Customers rave about the luxurious, moisturizing formulas of Australian Gold’s products, saying they leave their skin feeling pampered and hydrated.

FAQs

Q: Which brand is better for sensitive skin? 

A: Both brands offer sensitive skin-friendly products, but Hawaiian Tropic’s formulas might be slightly more gentle and soothing.

Q: Which brand is better for acne-prone skin? 

A: Australian Gold’s products might be more suitable for acne-prone skin, as they contain ingredients like salicylic acid and tea tree oil that help control acne.

Q: Which brand is more eco-friendly? 

A: Both brands have made efforts to reduce their environmental impact, but Hawaiian Tropic’s recyclable packaging and eco-friendly ingredients might give it a slight edge.

Q: Which brand is more expensive? 

A: Australian Gold’s products tend to be more expensive than Hawaiian Tropic’s, due to their high-quality, premium ingredients.

Q: Which brand has better customer reviews? 

A: Both brands have excellent customer reviews, but Australian Gold’s products have a slightly higher average rating on Amazon.

Q: Can I use these products on my face? 

A: Yes, both brands offer products that are suitable for facial use, but be sure to choose products labeled as “non-comedogenic” or “hypoallergenic” to minimize the risk of irritation.

Q: Are these products suitable for children? 

A: Yes, both brands offer products that are suitable for children, but be sure to choose products labeled as “pediatrician-tested” or “gentle enough for kids” to ensure their safety.