You don’t have to spend a fortune to stay safe in the sun, but SPF will only do its job – protecting skin from harmful rays – if you do yours, which involves a little education (and yes, reapplication). Here’s why you could be more exposed than you know…
You think protection is just for the beach
We’ve all asked the question: ‘Do I really need a sunscreen every day?’ The answer is always yes. UV damage still occurs when you’re going about your daily routine – even on the cloudiest of days. Always look out for formulas that show a high UVA protection, as these are the rays that penetrate deeper into our skin, ageing it in the process.
Your cream is too old
Opinions vary on the lifespan of SPFs, but if there’s one thing that’s agreed by leading dermatologists it’s that they most definitely do expire, with Asda’s recent survey revealing that 57% of Brits wear out-of-date lotion. Just like any other product, chemicals degrade in sun cream and therefore lose their effectiveness. If the texture starts separating, or it smells different, it’s time to get rid - but, as a general rule, you should be replacing them yearly anyway to be safe. The one exception? Mists or sprays. Thanks to their pressurised containers, they’ll go the extra mile.
You don’t like the formula
Find your cream too gloopy and white? We’ve all been there and the wrong texture can be a real deal-breaker when it comes to proper use. Thankfully, this year there's a big trend for clear sun care mists that spread beautifully and contain skin-friendly ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and Vitamin E, which means easy application and skin that’s softer and more hydrated than ever before. Try: Garnier Ambre Solaire UV Water SPF30, £9; Coola Tropical Coconut Spray, £22; Vichy Idéal Soleil Hydrating Solar Protective Water, SPF30, £19.
You think sun cream gives you breakouts
Technically, this can be the case, but SPF isn’t solely to blame; research by La Roche-Posay recently found that excessive exposure to the sun causes sebaceous glands to produce blemishes too, as does sweat. For an anti-inflammatory shield against breakouts, try ones that say they are 'non-comedogenic' (designed not to clog your pores), and if you really suffer, look out for sunscreens with zinc titanium as these have a drying effect on the skin. We recommend: Eucerin Sun Gel-Crème Oil SPF50+, £16 or Eau Thermale Avene Cleanance Solaire SPF30, £12.
You’re not using enough
It sounds obvious but, according to the British Association of Dermatologists, most people apply less than half of the amount needed, and there is a rule we should all follow. Garnier’s leading dermatologist, Dr Justine Kluk explains: 'Always think of a golf ball-sized blob to protect your whole body, while a teaspoon amount is idea for your face and neck.' Dr Kluk recommends building it up in several thin layers for your best protection. Better still? Apply in the shade and away from any wind so you can see that you’re covered in all areas.
You misunderstood the SPF rating
It’s easy to see any number on the bottle and assume you’ll be protected whatever your skin type, but Abi Cleeve, Ultrasun UK founder, confirms that picking the right factor for your complexion is crucial. 'Under the influence of UV rays, skin that’s not used to, or prepared for the sun [which is practically everyone living here] will begin to thicken and produce melanin within 10 days, so always use an SPF50 while your skin adjusts.' As for the rest of the year? 'For grown-ups with a base of colour I would recommend using an SPF20 in the UK and Northern Europe, then stepping that up to SPF30 in peak season when the sun is at its hottest. As for kids, SPF30 should always be used in the UK and SPF50+ when going abroad.'
ELLE Edit: 17 Of The Best Sun Creams To Prevent Sunburn
Ultra Violette Preen Screen SPF50 Reapplication Mist Skinscreen™
It's fair to say we've never been quite so impressed with an SPF spray. Leave it to sun protection experts, Ultra Violette, to develop an invisible, ultra-lightweight SPF 50 spray that makes reapplying your sun cream almost too easy. Designed specifically with those regular top ups in mind, this vitamin C and E-infused formula is ideal for taking on-the-go and for protecting those bits we tend to forget about - think hands, scalp and anywhere else that's enjoying a hit of sunshine.
Caudalie Vinosun Very High Protection Water SPF50
Caudalie's super smart bi-phase sun screen combines the skin-nourishing properties of an oil with the skin-protecting powers of an SPF50 water. Non-sticky or greasy with zero white cast or residue, simply shake and spritz for sun protection.
If a more traditional sun cream is your preference, then Clarins' modern take on a classic formula is the one for you. Combining high level sun damage filters and plant-based extracts, this lightweight lotion delivers on skincare benefits and sun protection minus the chalky white streaks. Plus, the packaging is made from recycled plastic so you get snaps for sustainability.
This super fine invisible spray makes the boring task of applying sun cream seriously quick and easy. The mist applicator means applying sun cream to even the most tricky to get to areas is a breeze, while the dry touch, vegan formula means sticky, sand-covered limbs are a thing of the past.
Supergoop! Glow Stick Sunscreen SPF50 PA++++
If the thought of a sun cream stick has you picturing dodgy throwback images of 1980s ski trips, then think again. Supergoop! have created a genius clear SPF50 balm that sits transparently and comfortably on skin - ideal for upping the sun protection on areas like your nose, parting or ears without the tell tale white stripes. Additionally, it makes a great highlighter for those summer nights where make-up just isn't an option.
NIVEA Sun Protect & Dry Touch Sunscreen Spray SPF30
A high street favourite for a reason, Nivea know a thing or two about protecting your skin from sun damage. This satisfyingly ergonomic bottle (that's also made from 95% recycled materials) houses a dry touch, 100% clear SPF30 formula that immediately absorbs into skin. For swimmers or water sports fans, it's also extra water and sweat resistant, 89% biodegradable, and free of ocean damaging ingredients, so you can feel reassured even when you're in the water.
Lancaster Sun Sport Cooling Invisible Mist SPF50
If there's something about sun protection Lancaster don't know, we're yet to discover it. The cult sun screen brand have developed a genius sun screen spray that packs in SPF50, is water-resistant, ocean-friendly and even cools our hot and flustered skin on contact. We haven't even mentioned its super fine mist texture, that you can apply it directly onto wet skin and its totally transparent - perfect for all skin tones.
Wave white casts goodbye, Hello Sunday's invisible sun cream formula disappears instantly on every skin tone.
Oskia SPF30 Vitamin Body Milk
If you like your sun cream to be more than just a barrier between you and harmful UV rays, choose this Oskia offering. First and foremost, it's a luxurious, skin replenishing, gorgeous smelling moisturiser, complete with vitamins and omegas. And secondly, but by no means any less importantly, it's an effective, factor 30 sun cream. Smear it and smile.
Ultrasun SPF 50+ Extreme Sun Lotion (400ml)
It might be called 'Extreme' sun lotion but trust us when we say this factor 50 sun cream is a total essential. Ideal for even the most sensitive skin, regular applications of this water-resistant lotion will leave you feeling safe in the knowledge that sun burn is fully off the cards.
Garnier Ambre Solaire Over Makeup Super UV Protection Mist SPF50
An SPF50 spray you can wear over your make-up? Sign us up. Garnier's genius hyaluronic acid-infused sun cream mist is the ultimate way to top up your sun protection on the go.
Eucerin Oil Control Sun Gel Cream SPF 50+
Leave sticky sun cream smothered skin in the past with Eucerin's genius dry touch gel formula. A sophisticated combination of sebum-regulating Oil Control technology, Licochalcone A that neutralises free radicals caused by UV and HEVIS light and added Glycyrrhetinic Acid that supports the skin’s own DNA repair mechanism, this is the face sun cream that really works.
Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30
Protecting your skin from the sun might be good for you, but it's not always good for the environment. With up to 10% of coral reefs being threatened by sunscreen-induced bleaching, it's time to swap your regular sun cream for an earth-friendly one. Dermalogica's reef-friendly SPF provides broad spectrum protection whilst also boosting your skin's natural luminosity. Win, win.
Vichy Capital Soleil Solar Protective Water Hydrating SPF50
If heavy, paint-like white creams aren't your bag (are they anyone's??) then this super lightweight spray is for you. Formulated with hero ingredient hyaluronic acid, this keeps parched skin hydrated and protected.
Avène Very High Protection Spray Sun Cream SPF50+
Formulated specially for sensitive skin prone to sunburn, this super high protection spray defends against harmful UVA and UVB rays, whilst the Avène Thermal Spring Water soothes any heat-inflicted irritation.
Institut Esthederm Adaptasun Body Lotion Strong Sun
Based around the concept of using melanin to train your skin to protect itself against the sun, this SPF-free lotion lets you tan the safe way whilst still protecting against photo-ageing and free radical skin damage.
RIEMANN P20 Sunscreen SPF20 Lotion
One application of this genius sun cream is enough for ten hours worth of protection which means no messy lotions while you're trekking through the jungle. Or, you know, sitting by the pool...
