Contrary to popular belief, suncream, SPF, sunscreen, whatever you want to call it, should be used every single day.
You can buy all the expensive 'anti-aging', 'anti-wrinkle' creams you can get your hands on, but research has shown sun protection is the best way to prevent signs of aging.
These are some of the SPF’s I’ve been trialing and a couple I am yet to try. Like anything in the realm of skincare, it’s really important to find the one (or two, or even five) that works for you. It's important to assess how the eye area copes with certain formulas, ingredients, and fragrance, as there’s nothing worse than sun cream in your eyes - we have all been there.
No7 Protect and Perfect Intense Advanced Facial Sun Protection
So far this has performed very well and is certainly up there with the best of them. It's friendly on the eyes and doesn't leave a white cast when applying. You can get this in factor 50 or 30. With 30 being the bare minimum we should be applying each day, this is a great place to start. It also offers a 5-star rating of UVA protection (radiation from the sun) which is also what we should be looking for in any sun protection.
This one retails at £15 which is on the pricey side for everyday use, but one simply does not compromise on sun protection.
Soltan Suncare, Face Protect, and Moisturise Suncream
This product is on the more affordable side of SPF. It is available in all Boots stores in the UK and online which makes it easier to incorporate into your daily routine.
This one isn't too bad on the eyes but can irritate depending on how well you apply it. Being on the cheaper side, its formula does leave somewhat of a white cast but with a bit more rubbing in, you're generally good to go and for £5.50 you cannot complain.
This particular product is available in various SPF strengths, but a minimum of 30 is recommended by dermatologists.
Garnier Sensitive Advanced UV Face Fluid
Prior to trying this, I had heard this particular suncream serves as an affordable dupe (£7) for the very popular La Roche-Posay suncream which retails at £18. I can confirm this formula feels soft and lightweight on the skin. It offers the sun protection we all need and a UVA star rating of 3 (good enough).
This formula plays nicely under make-up and other skincare products and the general consensus is that this tops the LRP £18 suncream - cheaper and better, win-win!
Avene SPF 50+ Fluid
With trialing different products you are bound to come across some that just simply don't work for your skin, so although this smells really nice and was reduced to £8.75 it isn't for me. Although as a product itself it offers everything you are looking for in a suncream, it didn't feel nice on my skin and stung my eyes like a b***h. Needless to say, I will not be repurchasing.
Garnier Ambre Solaire Anti-Dryness Super UV
Finally, this product deserves its own picture, not only because it is so affordable but because it is simply the best suncream I have yet tried.
This £6 bargain is formulated with glycerin, a humectant that is a type of moisturising agent that pulls water into the outer layer of your skin from deeper levels of your skin to offer a higher level of hydration. It is also great for trapping moisture into the skin so you aren't left dry by lunchtime.
It offers everything you need in a suncream and the whole bottle is made from recyclable materials, so for £6, what more can you ask for?
The world of skincare can often be overwhelming with all the chemicals, terminology, and scary price tags out there, but despite your age, skincare concern, or budget, the best thing you can do for yourself is start wearing suncream!