Despite living in the UK, a country which see's approx. three weeks of sunshine a year, we should still wear SPF on the daily to help protect our skin against the sun's harmful rays yes, even when the sun is covered by clouds. Not only can the sun's rays have dangerous effects such as skin cancer, but they can also lead to decreased collagen and elasticity (hello premature aging), hyperpigmentation and skin dullness.
We get it; it can be difficult to remember yet another step in your skincare routine and even more difficult to find an SPF that doesn't leave skin feeling greasy or with a white cast. Couple that with the vast number of SPFs on offer and it can be a minefield to find your perfect pick, which is why we're sharing our five best of the bunch.
First of all, what are the basics you should be looking for in a sunscreen?
- Minimum of SPF25
- UVA & UVB Protection (broad spectrum)
- Chemical vs Mineral protection
Now with those in mind let's take a look at our top five:
Cerave AM Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF25
We previously raved about this little gem in our Summer Skincare Must-Haves as the non-greasy formula makes it perfect for daily wear, especially so if you want to add makeup on top. The formula is non-comedogenic and includes niacinamide which helps retain moisture, reduce redness, and regulate oils.
Heliocare Advanced Gel SPF50
The Heliocare Advanced Gel is great if you need a lightweight and easily absorbed formula that still offers broad spectrum protection and a high SPF. The barely there feel makes it the ideal base for makeup and as it's a non-comedogenic it means it's great for those with more oily/spot prone skin.
Ultrasun Face Anti-Ageing SPF50+
If you have sensitive skin, then this is the SPF for you. With no fragrances, mineral oil, silicones, or preservatives it's ideal for skin that is sensitive, and also those who love a multifunctional product (who doesn't?!) as it acts as a moisturiser and primer as well as a daily sunscreen. What about the anti-aging part of the product? The easily absorbed formula contains Ectoin which is a natural substance proven to prevent UVA-induced premature photo-aging – which means it will prevent signs of premature aging.
grum SPF50 UVA Face Sunscreen
Another non-sticky formula, this time from grum, a Manchester-based company focused on skincare for all. The highly rated face sunscreen offers both UVA & UVB protection (5 star rated) in a fragrance free and dermatologically tested formula. It's fast become a cult favourite when it comes to facial suncreams.
Bondi Sands Face Sunscreen Lotion SPF50+
With the formula enriched with Aloe Vera and Vitamin E it's a great compliment to your existing skincare routine, so much so it can be used in place of your daily moisturiser. Coupled with the skincare ingredients the lotion offers UVA & UVB protection in a slick lightweight formula.
What are you favourite daily SPFs? Drop us a comment on Instagram and let us know.