Although it’s far from scorching in the UK, there’s one thing that should always be on your mind (whether the sun is overtly visible or not) and that’s SPF. You could be going on holiday or making the most of ‘British summer time’ on home soil, but protecting your skin from harmful rays should be of the utmost importance when out in the sunshine. Most of us are aware of the factor we should be using (if not, you can discover more in this post), but what SPF should you be using for your skin type? Here’s a little breakdown…
A BRIEF SPF OVERVIEW
SPF ratings measure the length of time you can be out in the sun without getting sun burn, which we’re sure we’ve all had to suffer from at some stage in our lives; it’s nothing to be desired however desperate you are for a tan! It’s good to know that SPF 15 sunscreens filter 93 percent of UVB rays, while SPF 30 filters out 97 percent and SPF 50 98 percent. The sun’s ultraviolet radiation spans both UVB (the cause of sunburn and the risk of skin cancer) and UVA (wrinkles and skin ageing) rays so it’s also ideal to look for SPF that boasts broad-spectrum protection. The higher the SPF, the greater the protection, and it’s good to remember that sunscreen should be applied half an hour before stepping outside, giving the skin plenty of time to absorb the product. As a general example, if your skin tends to burn after 10 minutes of being exposed, applying an SFP of 30 will mean your skin will take 30 times longer to burn. Whatever factor of SPF you are using, product should be reapplied at least every two hours and immediately after a dip in the pool.
OILY OR ACNE PRONE SKIN
If you have skin that is on the oilier side and prone to acne you should be opting for an SPF that is non-comedogenic, which means the formula won’t clog up your pores. These skin types should also always wear a separate SPF for their face as sunscreens designed for the body can be too heavy. Other buzz words to look out for are ‘oil free’ and ’fragrance-free’.
RECOMMENDED PRODUCT
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra Light Fluid SPF 50
Free from fragrance and parabens, the Anthelios Ultra Light Fluid is suitable for even sensitive skin. It’s also non-comedogenic too, so you don’t have to worry about spots. Phew! The lightweight formula is non-greasy so it doesn’t leave that annoying sticky residue, and instead is absorbed quickly and comfortably onto the skin. Most importantly, you’re now protected from harmful rays and potential cell damage.
SENSITIVE SKIN
Look for oil-free, hypoallergenic SPFs that do not contain any oils, chemicals or fragrances. Opt for sunscreens that include physical sunscreen filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to reflect both UVA and UVB rays.
RECOMMENDED PRODUCT
SPF 30 Family Ultra Sensitive Sun Cream
A light easy to use formula with vitamin E, this has been specially formulated for very sensitive skin and vulnerable
areas. Containing no oils, perfume, emulsifiers or preservatives, this sun cream offers high protection from UVA, UVB and Infrared A rays while also working to prevent uncomfortable prickly heat and other sun allergies…
DRY SKIN
If you suffer from dry, itchy skin you’ll benefit from a sunscreen that has been formulated with hydrating ingredients, such as glycerin, lanolin, oils and silicones. Moisturising sunscreens are often creams, lotions or ointments.
RECOMMENDED PRODUCT
Lancaster Sun Beauty Velect Milk SPF 30 & Sun Beauty Velvet Touch Cream SPF 30 duo
Keep your skin well and truly protected from harmful sun rays this Summer with Lancaster’s Sun Beauty Duo, featuring their Velvet Milk and Velvet Touch Cream. Offering a formula with the broadest spectrum protection while additionally protecting skin from visible light infrared rays, you can kiss goodbye to the accidental lobster look indefinitely.
