The Beauty Insider: Sun Protection

The Beauty Insider: Sun Protection

Every fortnight, make-up artist Lisa Potter-Dixon is sharing her tips and tricks on what’s new, what’s cult and what you really need to know in the world of beauty. Right now, she’s talking SPF, from sprays and creams, to reveal her top six skin protectors…

As I write this column, it’s June in London and the rain is cascading down my windows like a British version of Niagara Falls. Summer in the UK is the most unpredictable of seasons. Don’t even bother packing away your winter wardrobe, you’ll probably need it in July! However, whatever the weather, there is one thing that you should consistently have in your skin care routine, SPF. Yes, my friends, this is not just a holiday product. The skin damaging UVA and UVB rays aren’t afraid of stormy skies. They are always there, which is why we should always protect our skin, whatever the weather. So, I have put together my top sun protection tips and my favourite SPF’s to date.

The Difference Between UVA and UVB

Sunlight is made up of these two harmful rays. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin, causing skin damage. UVB rays damage the superficial layers of your skin causing sunburn. SPF (sun protection factor), measures the amount of protection you get from the sun’s UVB rays. The higher the number, the more protection you get. This is why, I always use an SPF 50 and would never consider choosing an SPF below 30. You may tan quicker with a lower SPF, but you are also more likely to burn and cause long term damage to your skin.

The Best Time To Apply

Apply your sun cream after your skin care and before your makeup. You should re apply at least every two hours when you’re in the sun. And always after swimming.

SPF In Your Makeup

Most base products now include an SPF. Do not rely on these. Yes, they have an SPF, but they also have a lot of other ingredients in them that won’t protect you from the sun. You tend to have to apply 14 times more makeup to get the effects of an actual SPF. That’s one heavy foundation!

Areas To Remember

Your lips and ears usually get forgotten about when applying sun cream. The skin on both these areas are extremely thin so they’re prone to burning – fast. A separate SPF lip balm is a must to help prevent dryness and dreaded cold sores.
 

My Firm Favourites:

There are so many amazing sunscreens out there these days, but here are some of my all-time faves that I return to time and time again…

UncompliKated SPF50 Soft Focus Setting Spray, £32 | Kate Somerville
UncompliKated SPF50 Soft Focus Setting Spray, £32 | Kate Somerville

Kate Somerville UncompliKated SPF50

This product is genius. It’s a setting spray and an SPF in one. It’s perfect for topping up your protection throughout the day. It’s super lightweight, leaves no residue and helps to keep your makeup in place. This is a kit essential for me. I always wear a liquid SPF under my makeup, but this is fab for on the go.

Allergy Lotion SPF50+, £8 | Piz Buin
Allergy Lotion SPF50+, £8 | Piz Buin

Piz Buin Allergy Lotion SPF50+

Developed for sensitive skin, this suncream is super moisturizing as well as having very high protection. A reliable option if you’re unsure on your skin type.

Anthelios Ultra Comfort Cream SPF50+, £16.50 | La Roche Posay
Anthelios Ultra Comfort Cream SPF50+, £16.50 | La Roche Posay

 La Roche Posay Anthelios SPF50

This product was specifically developed for sensitive skin. It is seriously light weight and non-greasy. It works beautifully alone or under your makeup.

SPF50+ Tinted Face Sun Cream, £26 | Ultrasun
SPF50+ Tinted Face Sun Cream, £26 | Ultrasun

Ultra-Sun 50+ Tinted Face Sun Cream

This brand is one of my go-to’s. I once swam in Lake Geneva in a relay for over 30 hours and I didn’t burn once because I used their Sport SPF. This tinted face version is gorgeous. It’s basically an SPF and a tinted moisturiser. Meaning you can avoid foundation on your holidays and still have even, bronzed looking skin. I tend to wear this throughout summer.

Ideal Soleil Mattifying Face Dry Touch Sun Cream SPF 50+, £12.37 (was £16.50) | Vichy
Ideal Soleil Mattifying Face Dry Touch Sun Cream SPF 50+, £12.37 (was £16.50) | Vichy

Vichy Ideal Soleil Mattifying Face Dry Touch Sun Cream SPF50

This product is amazing if you have oily skin. Not only does it have a high spectrum of SPF, it also removes any excess oil on your skin.

Activated Sun Protector Sunscreen SPF 30, £30 | Kiehl’s
Activated Sun Protector Sunscreen SPF 30, £30 | Kiehl’s

Kiehls Activated Sun Protector SPF50

This is an amazing water light lotion for your face and body. Not only does it have a broad spectrum, it also feels refreshing and cooling on the skin which is a real treat in the sun.

 
It’s never too late to start including an SPF into your skincare routine. The difference it can make to your complexion is remarkable. So, give it a go. You can thank me when you get mistaken for someone 10 years younger :)

Love & Lipstick,

Lisa xx
 
Lisa Potter-Dixon is a presenter, make-up artist and SheerLuxe beauty contributor. Follow her @Lisapotterdixon, tag her in your beauty pics with #LearnwithLisa and @Sheerluxe on Instagram.

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