Whether you're jetting off somewhere glamourous abroad or having a relaxing staycation at home, sun cream is the most important essential in our suitcase and vanity cases. And we need to make sure we have nothing but the best to keep our skin protected this summer. Everyone knows that the sun's rays is the biggest skin ager out there, so making sure you regularly use a good SPF to keep yourself looking youthful.Now there's so many creams and gels on the market that it can difficult to know which one to pick. The SPF you require will be depend on your skin type however the NHS recommends using at least a SPF 15 at all times and to stay out of direct sunlight between 11am and 3pm. SPF measures how much time in the sun your skin can take without burning, so if your skin normally burns after 15 minutes unprotected an SPF 15 will allow you to stay in the sun 15 times longer. People with paler natural skin tones need the most protection to prevent sun burn, either an SPF 50 or 30 should be used at all times. People with medium natural skin with olive undertones should still use an SPF 30 on areas they are worried about premature aging e.g. face, hands and neck but could use an SPF 15 on their bodies, as long as it is regularly topped up throughout the day. Finally people with dark skin should use an SPF 15 and it is never recommended to go out without sun protection.
With so many to choose from we've rounded up our favourite sun creams to make it easy for you this summer.
Piz Buin 1 Day long SPF30 100ml
For skin that gradually tans this sun lotion has technology that provides up to 6 hours of long lasting protection. It is formulated to last longer than your average sun cream, however do not be fooled, it may say 1 day long but you need to make sure you regularly reapply if you are out in direct sunlight or in and out of a pool. It has added vitamin E which helps neutralise the skin and prevent premature skin ageing. This lotion is non greasy and quick to absorb, a winner for us as there's nothing worse that feeling sticky and slimy on a beach!
Garnier Ambre Solaire Light & Silky Protection Lotion SPF50 200ml
This Garnier SPF 50 is perfect for skin that burns very easily as it provides a high SPF. It protects the skin against the sun's harmful effects but is also ultra-light in texture and doesn't feel heavy or chalky on the skin which other high SPF products can do. It absorbs quickly and is non greasy. With an added bonus of protecting against UVB and UVA rays due to an advanced filtration system. This cream is great for kids to give you that high SPF but is also quick and easy to apply.
Australian Gold Spray Gel SPF15 237ml
Australian Gold Spray Gel contains exotic oils that help soften and moisturise the skin whilst also giving you that necessary sun protection. It is perfect for achieving a natural and gradual tan and a firm favourite with us here at the office! The formula smells fresh and is really easily absorbed so you can regularly top up without feeling like you are coating your skin in tons of lotion.
Piz Buin Tan & Protect Tan Accelerating Oil Spray SPF30 150ml
This tan accelerating oil is perfect for those of you who love that golden goddess tan. It is amazing for keeping you safe in the sun and giving you that gorgeous colour quickly so you can make every moment in the sun count! The spray contains Melitane which is proven to enhance the natural tanning process and increase the body's production of its natural tanning pigment to enhance your tan quickly.
Malibu Sun Protection Lotion SPF30 200ml
This Malibu Sun Lotion is a classic and has been around for years and it smells amazing! Easily absorbed and offering a high SPF it is a staple for your suitcase. It also has a high water resistant quality which means you'll still be protected when splashing around in the pool or swimming in the ocean!
All these sun protection products need to liberally applied and repeated throughout the day to keep that tan golden rather than red!
