SPFs have developed beyond all recognition in the past few years, and now, are joy to use and the secret to youthful, even skin.
Recently, SPF has been proven to protect against up to 90% (yep, 90%) of skin ageing. This means that we can reduce up to 90% of lines and wrinkles, pigmentation, and skin sagging with just this one product alone.
Aside from ageing though, SPF protects against the most prevalent cancer in the UK – skin cancer. The 2nd-8th May this year is Sun Awareness Week and highlights the fact that at least 100,000 new cases are diagnosed in the UK each year and can be prevented by just ensuring the use of sunscreen.
Although we think our skin only needs protection when we’re on the beach or barbecuing in the garden, the truth is that UVA rays that cause most of the damage are present come rain or shine.
So, to help keep you and your skin protected 365 days a year, I’m going to share my top SPF recommendations so you can add this hero product into your daily routine, with ease.
Best Facial SPF – BASE Protection – SPF 50
Imagine a sunscreen, hydrating lotion, and makeup primer in one… BASE Protection – SPF 50 would be the result.
Unlike the sticky, greasy sunscreens you may be familiar with, BASE Protection is a mineral-based, super lightweight formula that provides maximum, broad-spectrum protection. Its non-greasy formula is almost undetectable on your skin, sits effortlessly under makeup, doesn’t clog your pores, and leaves zero white cast.
Apply it as the last step in your morning skincare routine allowing it to slot effortlessly into your day. I never, ever leave the house without it. It’s suitable for all skin types and will forever be my No1.
£35 from BASE Protection
Best On-The-Go SPF – The Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50
This is such a handy little product for those long, warm, sunny days outside when your SPF needs topping up regularly.
The Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50 is a lightweight powder that evens and smooths your skin in a handy, retractable brush. You dust it generously over your skin as and when needed and its mineral formula adds a touch of colour to your complexion. It is also safe for those suffering with acne, eczema, or psoriasis too.
Just toss it in your bag and top up your protection whenever and wherever life takes you.
£39.99 from FacetheFuture
Best Body SPF – Heliocare Invisible Spray SPF 50
I have recommended this product time and time again and have still never found one that rivals it.
The Heliocare 360 Invisible Spray SPF 50 absorbs like a dream with (as the name would suggest), an invisible, non-oily finish. One of the great things about it is that you can apply it to wet skin so if you need a top-up as soon as you jump out of the pool, there’s no waiting around and your skin always remains protected.
The spray delivers an easy, even application and is super-charged with antioxidants and DNA repairing enzymes too. An absolute beach bag must-have.
£28.99 from Heliocare
Best SPF For Hands – Supergoop Hand Screen
My Mum taught me from a very early age always to protect one of the most sun-sensitive spots on our bodies – our hands. The skin on our hands is also very fine and delicate and can be damaged by the sun at an accelerated rate if not protected, which is why I love the Supergoop Hand Screen.
It’s a luxurious, fast-absorbing formula powered by SPF 40 that delivers nourishment, hydration, and antioxidant protection. I keep one in my bag for on the go and one in my car where my hands are usually exposed the most. I promise you’ll thank yourself for this one in the future.
£13 from Revolve
And that’s my top SPF roundup complete! Think of these products like saving for retirement. It doesn’t always feel necessary in your younger years, but at 65, I promise you’ll be so grateful for your efforts.
