You’ve learnt to fake it, but what happens when it’s actually holiday time? One in five Brits think sunburn gives you a better tan*. Argh! Listen up, ladies: burning is dangerous! And whether you’re in Blighty or abroad, the sun’s rays can be damaging. Here’s how to give your sun protection the x factor.
Face time
Even in the shade, you need to protect your face from the sun’s UVA rays, which cause premature ageing, lines and wrinkles. Look for a day cream or moisturiser with a high SPF. Out in the sunshine? You’ll need a face cream that battles both UVA and UVB, the nasty rays that increase the risk of skin cancer. So ensure you’re completely covered.
Best for the city Nars Multi-Protect Primer SPF30, £24.
Best for the shade Neutrogena Multi-Defence Daily Moisturiser For All Skin Types SPF 25, £7.99.
Lip service
Your lips are one of the most vulnerable parts of your body as they contain the lowest levels of melanin (the pigment that protects against the sun). They’ll never tan, but will burn if overexposed. Licking your lips increases your risk of burning as it strips away natural oils, so keep them moisturised with a lip balm at all times.
Best for a hint of colour Clinique Long Last Glosswear SPF15 in Clearly Pink, £14.50.
Best for everyday care Carmex Cherry Flavoured Lip Balm with SPF15, £2.69.
SPF for ALL!
No matter what your skin type is, you still need to wear sunscreen to protect yourself.
Best for fair skin Solait Light Texture Moisturising Lotion Spray SPF50, £3.99.
Best for medium skin St Tropez SPF20 Medium Protection For Body With Tan Enhancer, £20.
Best for dark skin Piz Buin In Sun Moisturising Ultra Light Sun Spray SPF15, £15.99.
- Tip Self-tan won’t protect you from the sun, so apply sun lotion on top. If you have a faux glow, don’t use a sun oil, as this will cause your hard work to crash and burn.
Watch the clock
An easy way to remember when to reapply your SPF is to multiply the factor roughly by 10. For example, SPF20 will give you 200 minutes in the sun before you start to burn. But beware, fair-skinned maidens need to times by five, so SPF20 will only give you 100 minutes’ burn-free time. Always reapply after a dip – swimming can cut your sun protection by 50 per cent.
