The sun is shining and it’s time to upgrade your sunscreen. Dermatologists tell us that everyone needs to protect themselves from the sun. No matter your skin tone, no matter the weather, it should be part of every skin care routine. Following teen years of sunbathing with baby oil (gasp), making the transition to daily sun protection was particularly necessary for us. The good news is that there are now some fantastic products to be found, so if you haven’t done it before, now is the time to make daily sunscreen a habit.
Coola Classic Face Sunscreen SPF 50,
Coola organic sunscreen is really a great all-rounder. With both scented and unscented versions available, they are non-irritating and absorb easily into the skin. Can be worn alone or under makeup.
Ultra Violette Queen Screen Luminising Sun serum SPF50+,
Recently landed in the UK (and the fastest ever selling suncream brand at SpaceNK), Ultra Violette has a great line of sun creams from the experts in Australia. This one is a fluid, rather than cream, and applies easily under make up. Not too shiny.
Ultra Violette Lean Screen Mineral Mattifying SPF50+, £34 at SpaceNK
Another great option from Ultra Violette if you prefer a mineral version. It is tinted to cover the whiteness and also thicker, but does rub in and leave a nice, matte finish.
La Roche Posay Anthelios Ultra-light invisible fluid sun cream SPF50+,
This sunscreen that converted me to daily application — extremely good value, very light and easy to reapply during the day. Not shiny. Also comes in a tinted version.
Avène Intense Protect SPF50+, £15 (usually £20) at Look Fantastic
Another great – and affordable – option for daily protection. It comes in a large 150ml bottle so it will keep you going for a while. Particularly good for those with sensitive skin.
Shiseido Urban Environment UV Protection Cream Plus SPF50,
The Japanese brand has a large line of excellent sun protection, the sport versions are particularly good at staying on during exercise without clogging the pores.
Dr. Barbara Sturm Sun Drops SPF50,
Another great Sturm product: you mix the drops with your everyday moisturiser. Easy to wear under makeup for daily use.
SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial UV Defense SPF50,
This SPF50 version will keep you protected even at high altitude.
Dr Gross SPF 30 All-physical lightweight wrinkle defense broad spectrum suncreen, £46 at SpaceNK
Slightly thicker consistency than the Ultra Violette serum but sits nicely under makeup and lasts well.
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF30,
An almost gel-like consistency, leaving no trace of colour from this super popular brand.
Invisible Shield Daily Sunscreen SPF30,
Described as a “water gel”, this lives up to its “invisible” name.
Coola Hair & Body Bundle,
Don’t forget to cover your hair – this collection is light but effective.
La Roche Posay Anthelios Invisible Kids Spray SPF50+,
Can be used for the whole family and rubs right in. We buy this every year.
UltraSun Very High SPF50 Sports Spray Formula,
A waterproof and clear spray that really stays put.
Saltee Face Daily Protection Formula SPF 50, £29 from Cult Beauty
A new brand with a surfer-girl feel. This product gives a glowy look without being greasy. As well as SPF it contains Vitamin E avocado oil to rehydrate, Nordic pine bark to combat hyperpigmentation and neroli oil to boost skin regeneration.
And don’t forget to wear a hat too…
Rainbow Striped Raffia Hat,
Everyday Sun Hat UPF50+,
Towelling Bucket Hat,