If you’re not already incorporating one of the best sunscreens for face in your daily routine, you might need to re-consider your skincare ritual – after all, dermatology experts insist that it’s the single most important step that should not be skipped. And thanks to the sudden heatwave that’s graced us this week, applying (and re-applying) a high-quality formula that will protect your skin from all types of harmful UV rays is that much more important. That’s right, with the temperatures expected to remain well over 30 celsius all throughout the weekend, you’d do well by equipping yourself with a broad-spectrum SPF (sun protection factor) product as soon as possible.
Why, you ask? UVB and UVA rays are known culprits behind sunburns, pigmentation, accelerate wrinkle formation and prematurely age your skin cells – not to mention the increased risk of getting skin cancer. Needless to say, sunscreens have become a crucial factor which helps not only prevent long-term damage but also help your skin maintain its ability to produce collagen and elastin, both of which are essential when it comes to keeping it plump and youthful.
But regardless of the scorching hot weather, you shouldn’t forget that using an SPF should not depend on how warm/cold it gets throughout the year. After all, UVA rays are known to penetrate through clouds on grey days and still wreak havoc on our skin in the long-term.
Best face SPFs and sunscreens for face at a glance – our top picks:
- Best sunscreen for face overall: Advanced Day Ultimate Protect™ Age-Defying Moisturiser with SPF 50+, £59, Medik8
- Best face SPF, the runner-up: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-Shine Sun Cream Gel SPF50+, £20.90, LookFantastic
- Best for youth-boosting: Advanced Day Total Protect™ Age-Defying Moisturiser SPF 30, £57, Medik8
- Best face SPF for dry skin: Vichy Capital Soleil UV-Age Daily SPF50+, WAS £22 NOW £16.50, Boots
- Best face SPF for oily skin: Skinceuticals Advanced Brightening UV Defense SPF 50, £50, LookFantastic
- Best face SPF for sensitive skin: Ultrasun Tinted Anti-Ageing Sun Cream for Sensitive Skin SPF30, WAS £28 NOW £20.80, Sephora
Some face SPFs even counteract other stressors, including pollution and the blue light emitted from screens on electronic devices. But similar to other skincare products, the key difference lies with the added ingredients, which can vary depending on your needs and preferences. Some formulations include hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, squalane, green tea extract, aloe vera (often seen in after sun products) and more. Otherwise, mineral sunscreens also often include titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which can aid create a protective barrier on your skin that will reflect the harmful UV rays, all the while avoid irritating sensitive skin.
Read the full article here