Stuff you need to know about facial sunscreen

I don’t need to tell you that you need to wear sunscreen on your face every day, right?
 
You need to wear sunscreen on your face every day.

And yes, that includes the male contingent amongst you.

There are lots of reasons why you should, and even more reasons why people don't. Partly, I think this is down to misleading marketing about other facial products which contain low levels of SPF. Partly it's because, let's face it, everyone looks and feels better with a tan. Partly because the notoriously rubbish British weather fools us into thinking we don't need it. And partly because we just can't be arsed.

If you've ever thought any of the following statements, you may want to think again...

“But my moisturiser/primer/foundation/WHATEVER has SPF in it.” 
Most make-up and skincare products containing SPF don’t provide anywhere near enough protection, nor do we apply enough of them to be effective. Not even on mildly sunny days in the UK.

“I have dark skin and never burn.”
You may not see any immediate effects, but the sun’s rays still cause skin damage and will still give you wrinkles prematurely. And if vanity isn't reason enough, you’re still at risk of skin cancer.

"I applied sunscreen a few hours ago/this morning/LAST WEEK so I don't need any more."
Welllll, you kinda do. Ideally you should reapply every four hours. More frequently if you're in a humid environment, you've been swimming, or you're a bit, well, sweaty. This isn't always possible, but it's worth bearing in mind.

“I want a tan.”
You’ll still tan with SPF30. You just won't burn.

You can of course slap on any old sunscreen, so long as it’s SPF30 (minimum) and offers broad-based protection against UVA and UVB rays. But I have sensitive skin and eyes, I wear make-up most days and I hate the feel of sticky sunscreen so I find specially designed facial products to be much more suitable for the job. Whichever type you go for, the key is to apply it generously and don't rub it in too much - you'll just be rubbing away its effectiveness.

These ones won’t interfere with your make-up or leave you looking like an oil-slick. And because I don't particularly want to look like a moomin all summer, nor do they leave a white cast on the skin, which so many do. 

My current favourite is the Soap and Glory Sunshield Superfluid. Usually £15, it's on offer for £10 at Boots at the moment and it's just really nice to use. It's lightweight, non-greasy and sinks in quickly with no hint of white residue. I'd say it would work on most skin types. Pretty impressive for an SPF50 at a great price. 

La Roche Posay ANTHELIOS Anti Shine Fluid, is particularly good if you have very oily skin. It's usually £15.50 but is also currently on offer for £11.62 at Boots. Other good ones are Clinique City Block, £18 and Vichy Capital Soleil, £14.50.

A worthwhile investment in your looks and your health.