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The Best Sunscreens to Wear All Year Round
The feeling of sun on your skin can do wonders for your mood, so it’s no surprise we spend the majority of the year waiting for the sun to come out. As we all know though, sun exposure can lead to UV damage, and this can result in unwanted pigmentation, damaged skin cells and more. As such, wearing suncare with a high SPF is essential all year round (yep, even when it's cloudy). And with the right SPF – think lightweight, non-greasy and no white cast in sight – you can bolster your skin's protection. Swot up on your sunscreen knowledge for every day, not just a holiday.
First things first though, what does SPF stand for? And what do you need to look out for on the bottle? Experts say the protection factor (SPF 30 for example) as well as UVB+UVA and PA markers are indicators of a good SPF. The protection factor highlights the level of protection against the sun, while UVB+UVA and PA showcases the protection against the damage caused by environmental factors such as blue light and air pollution. You might also be wondering what’s the difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50? The British Skin Foundation recommends using an SPF higher than 30, and if you have a fair complexion, that rises to SPF 50. Properly applied, SPF 50 can block 98 per cent of all rays. Finally, you may also want to know how much SPF you should apply and how often? As SPF is measured by its concentration levels, you need to apply the correct amount in order to receive the correct level of protection. We recommend using two teaspoonfuls for your face and neck, and six for your body. For maximum protection, always remember to apply your SPF every two hours (this is where SPF mists come in handy to re-apply, even over make-up).
What the Experts Want You to Know
Wear Sunscreen Daily
“Wear Sunscreen”, Baz Lurmann’s 1999 chart-topping song was no one hit wonder: 24 years on the sentiment is as important as ever. “Everyone should wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen regardless of age, gender or skin type. Just because you don’t burn doesn’t mean you’re not receiving UV damage from ageing UVA rays, which are the same strength all year round and can penetrate through windows. Your collagen actually starts to break down after just 10 minutes of being outside, even on a cloudy day,” says Dr Howard Murad, dermatologist and founder of Murad.
There Are Two Types of Protection
You will be able to tell whether a sunscreen is physical (also known as mineral) or chemical by looking at the inkey list on the back of the packaging. Physical sunscreen creates a barrier to deflect UV rays, and Dr Maryam Zamani recommends it for sensitive skins and children. “Physical SPFs include ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium oxide – they can appear white and be thicker in texture.” Chemical, on the other hand, “are absorbed into the skin and scatter UV radiation. These sunscreens are thinner and require less product to protect skin, however they can clog pores and cause more irritation so best avoided by acneic skin types. These formulations include oxybenzone, oxtinoxate, and avobenzone.”
Every Skin Tone Needs SPF
“Darker skin tones are just as susceptible to the hazards of sun damage, such as hyperpigmentation and free radical damage,” says Dr Murad. Medical and cosmetic doctor Dr Ewoma Ukeleghe has some top tips: “For skin of colour, a key thing is making sure that your sunscreen doesn't leave an ashy cast. We can't be tolerating that any longer! Beware of physical sunscreens that contain a high concentration of metals such as zinc oxide, which typically give the product a white cast on application.” Double check the inkey list if you’re unsure.
The Amount Counts
“SPF in make-up doesn't count,” says Dr Ewoma; it simply won’t give you enough protection. A dedicated sunscreen is needed. "Look at SPF in make-up as an extra layer of protection, not the full deal,” suggests Dr Murad. When applying a sunscreen, Dr Ewoma's “general rule of thumb is a 20 pence amount for colder months and 50 pence amount for warmer months – for the head and neck. The fairer the complexion, the more diligent you should be with the amount you apply.” And don’t forget often neglected areas: “the upper and lower eyelids, lips and hairline on the face and also toes, feet, underarms, and back of the neck are all all commonly missed places,” says Dr Zamani. Plus, you can use UV protection for hair, particularly good for coloured locks.
Now, Choose Your SPF
Knowledge in check, it’s time to pick the right sunscreen(s) for your needs. And you’ve come to the right place – as we’ve cherry picked the best of the best for you. From La Mer’s SPF-infused foundation that feels super lightweight in hot conditions (just remember to wear a layer of sunscreen as well) and Sisley’s ultra-hydrating lotion (thank you, shea butter) to Paula’s Choice's skin-sensitive protector, we’re confident you’ll find a sunscreen that you’ll adore.
Best Hydrating SPF
Elemis
Shop NowElemis’ Pro-Collagen Marine Cream SPF 30 is a gel-cream, glow-giving moisturiser that quenches thirsty skin with powerful marine and plant actives. Plus, it’s got SPF 30, which means one less step in the morning.
Best Mineral SPF
Noble Panacea
Shop NowOffered up in precise doses, Noble Panacea’s The Energist Multi-Defense Lotion SPF 50 is a lightweight, mineral sunscreen activated by UV light and it contains a multitude of actives kept stable by the sealed packaging.
Best SPF for Dry Skin
Perricone MD
Shop NowPerricone MD’s Cold Plasma Plus+ Daily Defense Moisturizer SPF 35 boasts a weightless formula that promotes healthy skin via antioxidants and amino acids, while hydrating your skin and providing SPF 35 protection.
Best Waterproof SPF
Shiseido
Shop NowShiseido’s Expert Sun Protector Lotion houses an invisible formula that strengthens UVA & UVB protection when your skin meets heat and water. Plus, it even restores its protective veil when damaged by friction.
Best SPF 50
Lancaster
Shop NowThis Monaco-born and based brand know a thing or two about SPF so you’re in safe hands with the Sun Perfect Illuminating Cream SPF 50 that helps to correct wrinkles, fine lines and dark spots. Your perfect skincare SPF hybrid.
Best Serum SPF
Lancôme
Shop NowThe fast-absorbing formula of Lancôme’s UV Expert Supra Screen SPF50+ sits beautifully under make-up without leaving an oily residue. Just like a serum, it’s boosted with actives, such as vitamin E and dandelion extract.
Best Lightweight SPF
Kiehl’s
Shop NowIs it too much to ask for sturdy sun protection that feels almost invisible? No, not when you have options such as Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily UV Defense that sinks into your skin, for all skin types.
Best SPF/Skincare Hybrid
111SKIN
Shop NowWant a sunscreen that goes the extra mile? Enter 111SKIN’s Repair Sunscreen SPF 50+.. From hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to a vitamin C-infused complex, this hybrid protects, repairs and helps to regenerate your skin.
Best SPF for Dry Skin
Nescens
Shop NowNescen’s 360° Protection Complex Face Cream SPF 30 tackles a plethora of skincare concerns, from ultraviolet and UV rays to premature ageing, chronic stress and environmental pollution – it’s a modern-day must-have.
Best SPF Foundation
La Mer
Shop NowHaving an extra dose of SPF infused in your make-up is a great bonus. La Mer’s The Soft Fluid Longwear Foundation is formulated with SPF 20, offers a luminous finish and even stays in place in humid environments.
Best SPF against Pollution
Murad
Shop NowCity dwellers, Murad’s City Skin Age Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Sunscreen is key in defending against pollution, external aggressors, blue light and infrared radiation. It also keeps your skin bright with vitamin C.
Best SPF for Oily Skin
Paula’s Choice
Shop NowLook to the oil-free formula of Paula’s Choice Resist Youth Extending Daily Fluid SPF 50 to calm redness and soothe skin through plant-based antioxidants and green tea extract. It also leaves a lovely soft matte finish.
Best Hand Cream with SPF
Eucerin
Shop NowIt may not be the prettiest bottle around, but Eucerin’s Hyaluron Filler Elasticity Correcting Hand Cream gives your hands SPF 30 protection, while hydrating skin via hyaluronic acid and working to unify your skin tone.
Best Eye Cream with SPF
RéVive
Shop NowThe skin around your eyes is highly-sensitive so it’s a good idea to look for antioxidant-packed formulas, such as RéVive’s Sensitif Eye Cream. It's filled with ginger root to stimulates blood circulation to depuff skin.
Best SPF for Reapplication
Ultra Violette
Shop NowThe Ultra Violette Preen Screen SPF 50+ Mist captured the beauty community’s attention not only because of its vibrant hue, but for its fine mist that helps to reapply sunscreen, refresh your make-up and bestow a glow.
Best SPF for Under Make-Up
La Prairie
Shop NowRepeat after us: apply sunscreen before SPF-infused make-up, always. La Prairie’s Cellular Swift UV Protection Veil is formulated with SPF 50 and works as a thin, protective veil that sits under your daily moisturiser.
Treating Sun Exposure
Sun exposure does happen, and this can leave your skin feeling tender, inflamed, and irritated. But all is not lost. Look for hydrating ingredients such as aloe vera, allantoin and panthenol to soothe skin and provide instant relief. Aloe vera can be useful but also stronger and more hard-working solutions like aquarich, SOD and hydrogen (as a succulent based gel) to soothe skin.”
- PARTNERSHIPNoble Panacea, Shiseido, Elemis, Lancaster, Perricone MD, 111Skin, Kiehl’s, Lancome
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