In an ideal world we would wear sunscreen everyday, 365 days a year. Harmful rays can penetrate the skin whether the sun is out or the sky is cloudy, so it makes sense to protect yourself whatever the weather.
With todays glorious sunshine, its time to start slapping on the sunscreen now. If youre not worried about skin disease, then at least think about the wrinkles. UVA are the rays that cause your skin to age prematurely, so you need to look out for a high SPF but also a cream that contains barriers which work against ultraviolet A (most of them do).
Because rays can be so harmful to your skin it is worth investing in a sun protecting cream that you can add in to your routine as an extra step, worn over your moisturiser. There are face creams and foundations that contain SPF, but if you want to be sure youre fully protected, it is worth adding in this step.
Here are ELLEs top three sun protecting creams, which all work as great primers too:
Physical UV Defense SPF 30, £32 by SkinCeuticals
This is light enough not to block pores and doesnt leave a white residue on the skin like some sun creams can. It is formulated for sensitive skin so it suits all skin types.
Super City Block SPF 40, £15 by Clinique
This cream contains SPF as well as UVA and B protection. Antioxidants also work to protect the skin.
Daily Face Shield SPF 40, £25 by Laura Mercier (enq: Selfridges 0800 123 4000)
Protects from UVA/UVB and is a reassuringly high factor. Its is oil and paraben free so should suit all skin types.
