The ultimate guide to sun protection; the brands to know, when to apply, how much and where
Whatever the weather, SPF is a year-round non-negotiable in your skincare routine. You can spend a fortune on moisturiser, but it won’t make a difference if you don’t use it alongside an effective SPF, every single day (yes, even if it’s cloudy and you’re working from home). As all skin types are at risk of sun damage, as well as health issues that can arise from sun exposure, everyone needs to be applying a high-SPF sunscreen.
How high an SPF should I use?
The sun protection factor (SPF) measures a sunscreen’s ability to protect skin from UVB rays, which cause sunburn and skin damage. Dermatologists recommend daily use of SPF 30+, however it’s important to note that an SPF 30 is not twice as effective as SPF 15. In fact, SPF 15 filters about 93 per cent of UVB rays, while SPF 30 filters 97 per cent. Even if you were to layer these factors on top of each other, you would never achieve 100 per cent.
What’s the difference between UVA and UVB?
Think of UVA as the ageing rays and UVB as the burning ones; you need a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect against both. UVA are the deepest penetrating, while UVB rays damage the surface layers and are the cause of most skin cancers. Look out for a PA++++ rating, which is the highest level of UVA protection currently available. Some formulas now also protect against HEV (High-Energy Visible) blue light from screens and urban pollution.
Should I choose a chemical or mineral sunscreen?
Don’t get too bogged down by the word ‘chemical’ as all sunscreens – even ‘chemical-free’, mineral or physical ones – feature some form of chemicals. Mineral sunscreens block and reflect some UV rays (absorbing the rest), while chemical sunscreens absorb rays, where they’re converted into heat and released. Mineral-based formulas are generally better for sensitive or acne-prone skin, while chemical sunscreens work well for daily wear as they’re lighter.
How much SPF should I use?
Apply two fingers’ worth to your face, neck, and décolletage and wait 60 seconds for it to fix before doing your makeup. For the body, you’ll need about one teaspoon of SPF for each of your arms, two for your legs and two for your torso (front and back). Ideally apply 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours, and immediately after swimming.
There’s SPF in my foundation, is that enough?
In short, no. While SPF in foundation provides some cover, the volume of makeup you typically use won’t match the recommended amount offered by facial sunscreen. Check how high the level of UVA/UVB protection is in your SPF face moisturiser, primer with SPF, or tinted moisturiser with SPF. It might be that you need to apply a separate sun cream in order to boost protection levels – and don’t forget, you’ll need to protect areas you won’t apply foundation to, such as ears and neck.
Here’s our guide to some of the best-in-class formulas to help you choose the best SPF for your skin type.
Best SPF to wear under makeup: Clinique UV Solutions Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 50
Clinique’s new fragrance-free sunscreen glides on and quickly absorbs to layer seamlessly under makeup. Powered by the brand’s skincare expertise, it delivers instant and lasting hydration along with antioxidants to help fight skin-damaging free radicals.
The best-smelling SPF: COOLA Face Lotion SPF 30, Cucumber
Crisp cucumber instantly refreshes when you’re in the sun. Incredibly hydrating and packed with skin-loving ingredients, COOLA’s organic SPF doubles up as a makeup primer and is ideal for combination, oily and sensitive skin.
The best stick SPF: NUXE Sun Sun Stick Serum SPF 50+
Transparent, non-sticky and super easy to apply on the go, Nuxe’s Sun Stick gives high protection from UVA/UVB rays and blue light. Particularly useful for protecting hard-to-reach areas, such as ears, it can be used under makeup as a protective primer that won’t pill.
The best sensitive skin SPF: Ultrasun SPF 50+ Anti-Ageing Facial Sun Cream
Designed for sensitive skin, Ultrasun’s committed fanbase raves about this fast-absorbing, no-mess sun cream which allows for instant makeup application. As well as high SPF it also gives up to 98 per cent UVA protection, plus it’s packed with anti-ageing ingredient Ectoin for active cell protection.
Best anti-pollution SPF: Shiseido Expert Sun Protector Cream SPF 50
Ideal for urban living, what really sets Shiseido’s formula apart is its first-class protection against blue light oxidant damage and pollution, alongside advanced UVA/UVB technology. Hyaluronic acid and liquorice rice provide all-day hydration, with a comfortable, non-greasy finish.
Best lip SPF: Hello Sunday The One for Your Lips SPF 50
Don’t forget to use a dedicated SPF product for lips to help prevent them getting sun-scorched. This great-value, fragrance-free, transparent balm is enriched with shea butter and hyaluronic acid to keep your lips protected without any stickiness.
Best luxury SPF: Augustinus Bader The Sunscreen SPF 50
Spenny, yes – but as it’s one of the most respected skincare brands out there, you know this SPF is going to be a 10/10. Lightweight and quick-drying, this skincare-meets-sun-care formula is powered by the patented Trigger Factor Complex to protect against UVA and UVB rays and renew the skin.
Best anti-ageing SPF: Trinny London See The Light SPF 50+ Moisturiser
Three years in the making, Trinny London’s game-changing moisturiser shields against sun damage while simultaneously working to prevent and reverse visible signs of premature ageing. Weightless and a joy to wear, this is where daily sun protection meets skincare.
Best men’s SPF: Clinique For Men Daily Hydrator Moisturiser SPF 50
An impressive skin-strengthening formula, which includes hydrating hyaluronic acid, this silky moisturiser with SPF 50 has zero white cast and finishes matte. Your other half will finally stop stealing your SPF… in fact, you might start stealing this.
Best SPF for body: Clarins Sun Care Cream for Body SPF 50+
Clarins has nailed the brief for creating the dream sun cream: as well as offering high-level protection against the harmful effects of the sun, free radicals and blue light, this SPF is deeply nourishing. Plus, the slim design is perfect for suitcase packing.
Best sun protection: Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF 50
Yes, all of these products offer great sun protection but, with antioxidant white tea and a unique polypeptide to boost skin rejuvenation, Dermalogica’s broad-spectrum moisturiser takes things to the next level. Long-lasting (a little goes a long way), it leaves your skin looking fresh and cared for.
Best after sun: Caudalie Vinosun After-Sun Repairing Lotion
Soothe sun-exposed skin with this ultimate hydrator for face and body. Infused with organic aloe vera, coconut oil and organic grape water, the velvety, gel-milk texture melts instantly into the skin to cool, hydrate and help prolong your tan.
