Traditional
Still common
Definition
Thick, coloured sunscreen cream, especially worn on the face and nose.
Example Sentence
"Slap some zinc on before you go out in the sun."
Where "Zinc" Comes From
"Zinc" is short for zinc oxide cream, a thick, opaque sunscreen long used by surfers, cricketers, and lifesavers for maximum sun protection.
Its bright colours became iconic on Australian beaches and sporting fields from the late 20th century onward.
How Aussies Actually Use It
It's used for the thick sun cream itself, especially the brightly coloured stripes worn by surf lifesavers and cricketers.
"Zinc it up" is common advice before a day in the sun.
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