So as it comes round to summer once again how much thought have you given to your sunscreen. It's too easy to just use your normal body lotion and forget about that most important part of your skincare routine, sunscreen.
Whether it's a boiling hot summer or whether it's a dull and cloudy one doesn't really matter, the sun's harmful rays still get through, so have a thought now about how you're going to protect yourself when the sun glares down, and not just on holiday. Don’t even think of going out there without looking after your skin, putting on the sunglasses and preferably wearing a hat.
Most people don’t know what they’re really looking for when buying a sun cream. To get the best possible protection you don’t just want a sun protective cream that protects against UVB rays, but UVA also.
So it’s not just the SPF that matters as that only tell you how well a lotion or cream will protect you from UVB rays which burn your skin. UVA protection is essential against damage at a deeper level. Both UVB and UVA are linked with cancer. Always look for a sun cream that has UVA and/or Broad Spectrum in the wording to ensure you’re protected properly.
Here are my top 10 sun creams that offer a high level of protection for both UVB and UVA rays.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
It’s not necessary to spend a fortune on your sun cream, but avoid cheap and cheerful just because it’s that and make sure that you’re getting coverage for face and body, for both UVA and UVB rays.
I would also discount the ‘once a day’ and ‘totally waterproof’ marketing on sun protection products. The less you use the less you’ll be protected so play it safe and keep the protection going.
Depending on how much time you’re going to be outside use a minimum of SPF 30+ on your face - preferably SPF50, and no less than SPF 30 anywhere else and don’t burn. You think it can’t happen to you, but with such a high percentage of skin cancer directly attributed to ultraviolet rays - it can.
This year my favourites are Darphin’s Soleil Plaisir, which you could easily mistake for your body cream it’s so creamy and smooth (and I've just had to re-order as the daughter has fallen for it as well), and Clarins new and brightly packaged Sun Cream for Body.
I have to confess I'm sorely tempted also by Sun Perfect by Lancaster Infinite Glow Illuminating Cream. Oh dear......