While summer can bring exciting opportunities like beach getaways, the increased sun exposure can also pose significant risks to your skin and overall health and wellbeing. The sun’s harmful rays can contribute to premature signs of ageing, like fine lines and wrinkles, while also making you more vulnerable to skin cancer.
The importance of sun protection in your skincare routine and daily lifestyle, especially if you spend extended periods outdoors, cannot be overstated. In addition to hydration and exfoliation, sun safety can boost your skin health and lead to a younger-looking, more glowing complexion. Below are the very best sun protection essentials to help minimise ultraviolet damage throughout the summer.
SPF moisturiser
According to Dermalogica founder Jane Wurwand: “The single best thing you can do for your skin is wear sunscreen every day.” And one of the easiest ways of achieving this is by utilising a high-quality sun protection factor (SPF) facial moisturiser to enhance sun safety in your daily beauty regimen.
Among the luxurious SPF and skincare hybrids are the sun drops from Dr. Barbara Sturm. Not only does the product have SPF 50 with broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, but the ultra-lightweight serum formulation also contains active complex ingredients like vitamin E, cassia extract, and buta gluca. This combination soothes and regenerates your skin by preventing oxidative stress, making it an ideal product even among those with sensitive skin.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen is the key to comprehensive coverage and broad-spectrum protection against harmful UV rays, so make sure to choose a lightweight formulation that can blend into your skincare and makeup routine. A smooth consistency can also make it easier to apply and reapply the product over the other areas of the body typically exposed to the sun, such as the ears and the neck.
In this case, lifestyle editors recommend the luxury sunscreen To Save Face Superscreen SPF50+, which has finally been launched in the UK by the Australian brand Mecca Cosmetica. This sunscreen is a cult favourite in Australia and New Zealand for a reason, as it has a matte, non-greasy formulation that leaves no white cast and increases hydration even when worn underneath makeup.
Sunglasses
Besides skincare products, eyewear is also crucial to sun protection, as UV rays can penetrate the eyes and increase the risk of eye conditions such as photokeratitis and cataracts through prolonged exposure. Moreover, the skin surrounding the eyes can be sensitive to sunscreen applications, but sunglasses can effectively protect the eyelid region without causing irritation.
To ensure you are fully protected, consider getting sunglasses from an established retailer. Vision Express’s eyewear selection is guaranteed to provide 100 per cent UV protection on top of showcasing trendy styles. Protective frame options include Ray-Ban’s Clubmaster Classic sunglasses with their browline design, as well as a pair of Prada PR 17WS, which offers maximum coverage through oversized frames.
SPF lip balm
The lips are the most commonly overlooked area when it comes to sun protection, making them vulnerable to dryness, chapping, flakiness, and discomfort. As such, dermatologists recommend using a lip balm with an SPF of at least 30 or 50 to reduce the risk of sunburn and skin cancer due to sun damage.
Among luxe SPF lip balms, your best option is Clé de Peau’s UV Protective Lip Treatment, which has SPF 30 and is specially developed for lip care and protection, thanks to moisturising ingredients like Hydro-Wrap Complex EX and argan tree oil. It also has a sheer, velvety texture that helps prime your lips for lipstick.
Beyond adding these products to your shopping cart, make sure to practice sun-smart habits like staying hydrated and wearing lightweight, breathable clothing to truly make the most out of your summer.
