Staying safe in the sun

Time and time again we are told not to stay out in the sun. Yet, it appears many of us are still not getting the message that damage caused by it can lead to skin ageing, hyperpigmentation and, at the worst, skin cancer.  

According to the NHS website, you should not remain in the sun for longer than you would without sunscreen. If you are out in it for any length of time, you should wear protective clothing in close woven fabrics which will not allow sun’s rays through and look for shady places, especially between the hours of 11am and 3pm in the UK. Sunscreen offers additional protection, it is not an alternative and certainly should be used on areas of the face and body that are exposed.

When buying sunscreens you need to ensure that they offer both UVA (there should be a circle with a UVA logo and if there is a star rating, it needs to be four or five) and UVB protection (as most people do not apply enough which means the protection is less, use at least SPF 30). 

Recent research carried out by NIVEA SUN and Cancer Research UK reveals that over half (55 per cent) of Brits don’t know if there is a difference between the SPF and the star rating on sunscreen products.

Also look on the label to ensure that it contains antioxidants. Research has indicated that when added to sunscreens, they help make the active ingredients more efficient and also aid the skin defend itself against sun damage.

NIVEA SUN and Cancer Research UK also state that 66 per cent of respondents admit protecting their skin from the sun more when they are abroad than in the UK – and, as a result, over 80 per cent of Brits have become sunburnt in the UK. So when you are out, make sure you protect yourself.

It is not how much you pay for sunscreen that is important, it is how you use it. Always reapply regularly and pay attention to delicate areas such as lips, around the eye area and ears. Do not forget your hands, especially the backs as they are tell-tale signs of age.

Here are some sunscreens from my go-to brands for suncare.

Boots Sensitive Hypoallergenic Suncare Spray SPF 30 (£6)
Those with sensitive skin should try this range. The lotion is moisturising and in spray form it is easy to apply.

Boots Soltan Protect and Repel Spray SPF 30 (£6)
If you want to keep the bugs at bay, go for this new offering from Boots. It will not leave you with white marks either.

Clinique SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen Fluid for Face, £22
As we know the sun can age the skin. Help to prevent those lines and wrinkles with Clinique’s new lightweight mineral sunscreen. It is easy to use and does not give you a chalky residue.

Eucerin Sun Anti-Age Fluid SPF 50, £20
It gives the skin a slightly matt finish and the company says: “has a highly effective photostable UVA/UVB filter system”. It is lovely and moisturising and quickly absorbs into the skin.

NIVEA SUN Roll-On SPF50, £7.99
Ideal for popping in your bag so you can top up your sunscreen when you are on the run. It is light in texture and feels good on the skin.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL SPF 50+ Dry touch gel-cream, £18
Has high, photostable UVA/UVB protection. Ideal for the face, it dries to a matt finish and leaves no white marks.

For lips

NIVEA Lip SUN Protection SPF30, £2.99

If you are spending any time in the sun, go for this. Containing vitamin E, it will keep your lips smooth and protected.

No7 Lovely Lips Lip Balm with SPF15, £9
Lips need looking after in summer and this balm will keep them soft and moist while protecting them as you go about your daily routine. Comes in a choice of colours.

Eucerin Dry Skin Intensive Lip Balm, £6

If you suffer from dry and cracked lips, use this in the evening or when you are not outdoors. My lips are always crying out for moisture and this works for me.

By Daralyn Danns

La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL SPF 50+ Dry touch gel-cream, £16.50
Photostable and gives high protection against UVA and UVB rays which the company claims is” stricter than the European recommendation”. It leaves no white marks and dries to a matt finish.