If you enjoy summers outdoors, choosing the right sunscreen is essential. After all, the safest way to a sunkissed summer is always sun-less.
If, up until now, choosing a sunscreen has stopped at the SPF number, and self-tan with the perfect bronze bottle, there’s a little more you should know. With summer coming in hot at our sand-covered heels, it’s time to find out what goes under, over and into your products and how to find the right sunscreen for your summer.
Heading to somewhere sunny this summer? Escape for the weekend in style with our list of Summer Staples To Build Your Capsule Wardrobe. Or, if a longer adventure is on the cards, stock up on Beach Holiday Suitcase Essentials.
The Sun Protection Factor: How To Choose Your SPF
What’s the difference between SPF30, SPF50 and SPF50+ when it comes to coverage? While the higher number sounds like almost twice the protection, SPF30 filters out 96.7% of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation, compared to SPF50+ which blocks out 98% of UV.
You’ll also want to ensure it’s labelled broad spectrum, which means it filters both UVA and UVB rays. UVA is the main culprit for wrinkles and blotchy skin, while UVB is the principal cause of sunburn – and both types contribute to increased skin cancer risk.
Polish And Prep With Exfoliating Scrub
For a flawless long-lasting faux tan, it’s all about the pre-tan prep. And the best place to start is with squeaky clean skin, so begin by polishing skin with an exfoliating scrub. Once scrubbed, apply moisturiser only to the very dry areas (like elbows and knees) to avoid colour build-up. The best way to avoid a streak-free finish? Leave most of your skin free of body oil and moisturiser.
Cover Your Bases: How To Choose The Right Fake-Tan
If you’re in need of a fast fix, a gradual or instant self-tan will bring on that glow. But bronze isn’t the only shade you should be considering. Self-tans come in different base colours that suit different skin tones.
Cool tone? If your skin is pale and tends to burn more than it tans, a green-based self-tan will counteract any pink in your skin and provide a natural-looking hue. Warm tone? If you have more of an olive complexion, violet-based self-tan balances any yellow hues in the skin and produces a richer bronze colour.
In Perfect Harmony: Layering SPF & Makeup
UVA rays are present year-round. As such, you’ll need a dedicated sunscreen to adequately protect your body and your face — and yes, you should wear it every day, even if you’re only sitting inside by a window. Thankfully, beauty and science have come a long, long way.
Sunscreens specifically formulated for the face are more lightweight than traditional options and often have their own benefits for the skin, meaning you can skip using a moisturiser or primer. Many beauty brands are including a form of sun-protection within their makeup formulation. While these formulas do offer some form of protection (SPF10 and SPF15 seem to be a popular level), they should not use your only form of sun-protection throughout summer. Don’t forget to top-up throughout the day with a dedicated sunscreen spray, which can be worn directly over or under your makeup.
Use products as directed. Always read the label. Avoid prolonged UV exposure and always wear protective clothing, hat and eyewear when exposed to the sun.