Summer Skincare: suncreams for the ultimate protection

Posted by Styloko

Whether you’re heading to sunnier climes in the tropics (we’re totes jealous, by the way) or staying at home to soak up some city rays, it’s suncream season (apparently), and there’s a screen out there to suit every need. Don’t be fooled by sunshine hidden behind clouds or the fact that being in the city means less damage, everyone – yes, that’s you too Miss-I-Never-Burn! – needs protection from harmful UV rays.

Skin cancer aside, did you know that sun and pollution are the worst culprits for aging? Trust us, it’s well worth investing in a good SPF product, not just for the vacays, but for everyday use. Here’s our pick of the best light, non-sticky, no-white-marks sun care worth their cent.

1. bare Minerals SPF30 Natural Sunscreen
A unique and nifty little product, bare Minerals’ super portable (weighing only 4g), oil-free, preservative-free, natural sunscreen comes in a sheer and light powder form. Complete with a built-in brush, it can be applied head to toe without clogging up your pores. Hard to believe such a light powder boasts an SPF of 30, non? 

2. Supergoop! City Sunscreen Serum SPF30+
Don’t let Supergoop’s playful logo and family-friendly ethos fool you; this is a serious piece of sun care kit. In fact, so serious they’ve even won countless awards for their sun care range. Despite the City Sunscreen Serum’s ultra-light texture, it can protect the skin from harmful daily rays, environmental and free radical damage, while also promoting cell-renewal to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Great on its own or under foundation for everyday use.

3. Chantecaille Ultra Sun Protection Anti-Glycation Primer SPF50+
Not only does Chantecaille’s Primer smell wonderfully fresh, it’s also an oil-free, mattifying product great for everyday use. Though high in SPF, it’s surprisingly lightweight and is suitable for all skin types. Containing a combination of three highly effective broad spectrum UV filters: cherry blossom, lemon balm and white tea extracts, the primer sits beautifully under foundation or on its own. It’s also water and humidity resistant, so rest assured, sweat ain’t gonna shift this sunscreen.

4. La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL Melt-In Cream SPF50+
An old favourite of ours. What we love about La Roche-Posay’s Melt-In Cream, aside from the affordability, is the fact it’s especially formulated for dry, sensitive skin and those who react badly to sun exposure. It’s water-resistant, offers at least 40% hydration, even after four hours, and yes, it really does melt into the skin without leaving any white marks.

5. Terracotta Sun Protection by Guerlain
Part of Guerlain’s Terracotta cosmetics range, this sun protection cream, which comes in just two strength levels – Blondes and Brunettes (SPF 15 and 30 respectively) – not only protects the skin against harmful UV rays but also accelerates tans. A perfect choice for the tan-addicts – we know you’re out there.

6. Vichy Capital Soleil Anti-Shine Emulsion Dry Touch SPF50
Another tried and trusted sun care brand, Vichy’s new star product (with the longest name, ever!) does exactly what it says on the tin. Ideal for combination and oily skin, the Anti-Shine Emulsion has a soft, light texture and contains a starch called amidon which is responsible for the matte effect, leaving skin with a unique ‘dry touch’.

7. Dr. Sebagh Sun-City Protection SPF30
Those who know their anti-ageing unguents will know Dr. Sebagh (highly acclaimed for his non-surgical cosmetic treatments) and his technologically advanced skincare line. As its name suggests, the Sun-City Protection is perfect for city dwellers. The 100% mineral filters, which provide an invisible shield against UVA, UVB, Infra-red and hyper-pigmentation, suggests that, like Dr. Sebagh’s signature skincare, this is serious stuff. But surprisingly, it’s paraben-free, easily absorbed and great for sensitive skin!

8. Jurlique Sun Lotion  SPF30
A broad spectrum sun cream suitable for all skin types. Australia-based Jurlique’s Sun Lotion is refreshing and light, yet high in SPF. The lavender and orange extracts in the lotion help to sooth the skin which prevents it from burning, while the avocado and Jojoba oils protect against moisture loss and dehydration.

Above: 1. bare Minerals, SPF30 Natural Sunscreen, £25, Selfridges 2. Supergoop!, City Sunscreen Serum SPF30+, £16, Space NK 3. Chantecaille, Ultra Sun Protection SPF50 Anti-Glycation Primer, £75, Liberty 4. La Roche-Posay, Anthelios XL Melt-in Cream SPF50, £14.50, Boots 5. Guerlain, Terracotta Sun Protection Cream Brunettes, £28, House of Fraser 6. Vichy, Captial Soleil Anti-Shine Emulsion Dry Touch, £13.50, Escentual 7. Dr Sebagh, Sun City Protection SPF30, £50, Harrods 8. Jurlique, Sun Lotion SPF30+, £15, Jurlique.